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The Spencer Tiara: Not Diana's, But Rich in Royal Rumors
22 Sep
Summary
- The Spencer Tiara was never Princess Diana's property, belonging to her family.
- Its design blends older components with modifications made over generations.
- Future heirs are subject to the Spencer family's succession rules, not Diana's.
The Spencer Tiara, a piece synonymous with Princess Diana, holds a history far more complex than often assumed. It was famously worn by Diana at her wedding on July 29, 1981, but it was a loan from her father, the 8th Earl Spencer, and remains the property of the Spencer family.
Controversy surrounds the tiara's origins, with parts potentially dating to the 18th century. However, the distinct design Diana wore was a reconstruction, refurbished by Garrard in the 1930s, combining elements from different eras.
Diana wore the tiara on numerous occasions, but it was never hers to own. After her father's passing, it transferred to her brother. This means the tiara is not among the heritage jewelry passed down to her sons, Princes William and Harry.
Despite speculation, neither Catherine, Princess of Wales, nor Meghan Markle wore the Spencer Tiara for their weddings. This is because it is a private family heirloom, not a royal jewel, and thus not automatically available to royal brides.
The tiara is currently owned by Charles Spencer, the 9th Earl Spencer, and is expected to remain within the Spencer family line, governed by their specific succession rules, rather than being passed to Diana's descendants.
