A classic Art Deco tiara, Queen Mary’s Diamond Bandeau was the choice of Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex for her 2018 wedding – making it one of the most famous tiaras in modern times. Two years on, images of the royal on her wedding day with Prince Harry are still enjoyed around the world, with the glittering diamond diadem a centrepiece of Meghan’s bridal look.

“Harry and I had gone to Buckingham Palace to meet with her Majesty the Queen to select one of the options that were there which was an incredibly surreal day as you can imagine.

“That was the one that I think as we tried them on stood out. I think it was just perfect because it was so clean and simple – and also to that point, an extension of what Clare and I had been trying to do with the dress which was have something that could be so incredibly timeless but still feel modern.”

The Duke of Sussex was present during the tiara choosing, and said trying on the special pieces is “every girl’s dream”. 

He gushed: “Funnily enough, it was the one that suited the best. The one that looked the best on you without question. I shouldn’t have really been there—but an incredible loan by my grandmother.”

How many tiaras are there in the royal collection?

There are dozens of priceless tiaras owned by the Queen and other members of the Royal Family. Many of the British aristocracy also own tiaras, wearing them at state banquets and on wedding days.

As well as tiaras currently in existence, there are a couple which have been dismantled to make other diadems. This includes The Surrey Fringe and The Nizam of Hyderabad.

Some tiaras have formed part of iconic moments in the history of the Royal Family. The Cartier Halo for instance, was worn by Kate Middleton on her wedding day to Prince William in 2011.

Similarly, the Meander tiara was admired around the world thanks to it being the choice of Zara Phillips for her wedding to Mike Tindall in 2011.

And it is the Lover’s Knot that is most often seen today, as it is a favourite of the Duchess of Cambridge. It was closely associated with Diana, Princess of Wales during her marriage to Prince Charles, so holds special significance for Kate.