Kate Middleton Just Wore Statement Jewelry Linked to Prince William’s Late Family Members (But Not Queen Elizabeth or Princess Diana)
The Princess of Wales (formerly known as Kate Middleton) has been known to wear jewelry once belonging to Prince William’s late mother, Princess Diana, and his late grandmother, Queen Elizabeth II. But at the 2026 BAFTA Awards, the princess donned some exquisite jewelry linked to some of her husband‘s other late family members.
The royal couple’s joint appearance at the award ceremony on Feb. 22 marked their first time together at the event in three years, and they arrived in style. William sported a burgundy velvet suit jacket, which matched the color of the belt Kate wore with her blush-and-pink colored Gucci gown.
The princess also turned heads with her statement jewelry, accessorizing her outfit with Greville Chandelier earrings and a diamond bar bracelet. Now, someone who used to work for the royal family is revealing who those stunning pieces are linked to.
Who the Greville Chandelier earrings are linked to
Grant Harrold was King Charles’ butler for seven years. During his time working for the monarch, Harrold’s duties included those of valet, housekeeper, house manager, and driver. He also looked after Prince Harry, Prince William, and Kate whenever they stayed at Highgrove House.
Speaking on behalf of Slots Temple, Harrold told Showbiz Cheat Sheet, “It’s interesting that Kate chose to wear these earrings, because they originally belonged to Dame Margaret Grenville, who was a close friend of the Queen Mother. That makes them extra special as there is that close link to Prince William’s great-grandmother, who he was very close to.”
The former royal butler continued, “It’s also another example of how jewelry gets passed down through the family. William is able to pass these pieces on to his wife to wear, which is always nice to see. These items are part of the Royal Collection, along with other jewelry and photographs. Members of the family can choose pieces from the collection, and they’re brought out from the vaults when needed.
“Kate first wore the earrings at the wedding of Prince Hussein and Princess Rajwa in 2023, and she most recently wore them again at the Royal Variety Performance. Wearing them on more than one occasion suggests they’re clearly a favourite of hers.”
Who the diamond bar bracelet once belonged to
Harrold also commented on the sparkling bracelet Kate wore on her wrist, which previously belonged to Queen Mary.
He said, “She’s also wearing Queen Mary’s diamond bar bracelet — this is interesting because it’s another vintage piece which shows that she clearly enjoys wearing older jewelry, as well as modern designs. Given that Queen Mary died in 1953, it shows how mindful Kate is of the family and the generations that came before her, and I believe that wearing this piece is a nod to late family members.”
Harrold added, “It also shows that pieces of the Royal Collection aren’t just kept away permanently — and they are still worn and seen today, which is exactly what they’re meant for — to be worn and enjoyed by all!”
