The viral claim lighting up royal feeds: The Most Expensive Piece of Jewelry Catherine Has Ever Worn: The Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace
Among the dazzling array of royal jewels Catherine, Princess of Wales, has worn since joining the family in 2011, one piece stands out as the undisputed heavyweight in terms of estimated value: the Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace. This breathtaking Cartier diamond masterpiece, often described as the most expensive jewel in the British royal collection, has been loaned to Catherine on multiple occasions, turning heads at state banquets, diplomatic receptions, and high-profile galas.
Experts and royal jewelry historians consistently rank it as the priciest item she’s ever worn publicly, with valuations soaring between ÂŁ65–68 million (approximately $80–86 million USD, depending on the source and market fluctuations). Some reports push the figure even higher, toward $122 million AUD in certain appraisals. Its staggering worth stems from the sheer number of high-quality diamonds, the Cartier craftsmanship, its historical provenance, and its status as a one-of-a-kind royal heirloom.
The Necklace’s Extraordinary History
The Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace traces its origins to 1947, when it was gifted to then-Princess Elizabeth (later Queen Elizabeth II) as a wedding present upon her marriage to Prince Philip. The donor was Mir Osman Ali Khan, the last Nizam (ruler) of Hyderabad—one of the wealthiest individuals in the world at the time, whose fortune was legendary.
Unable to attend the wedding in person, the Nizam instructed Cartier to allow the future queen to select any piece from their collection. Princess Elizabeth personally chose this necklace (along with a matching tiara and bracelet set inspired by English roses). Crafted in the 1930s by Cartier in platinum, the necklace features:
A long chain of 38 brilliant-cut diamonds (originally 46 in an earlier configuration).
A dramatic double-drop pendant at the center, pavé-set with 13 emerald-cut diamonds surrounding a large pear-shaped diamond drop.
Exquisite detailing that allows the pendant to detach for versatility.
Queen Elizabeth II cherished the piece, wearing it for portraits and special occasions in the 1950s. It remained in her private collection for decades, rarely loaned out—making its appearances on Catherine all the more significant.
(Image: Close-up of the Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace, showcasing the central double-drop pendant with emerald-cut and pear-shaped diamonds – archival royal collection photo)
Catherine’s Appearances: Turning Heads Since 2014
Catherine first debuted the necklace in 2014 at the National Portrait Gallery’s Portrait Gala in London. She paired the glittering diamond bib-style necklace with a deep ink-blue Jenny Packham silk tulle gown, letting the jewels take center stage against the dark fabric. The look was a sensation—elegant, timeless, and instantly iconic.
She wore it again in December 2019 during the Diplomatic Corps Reception at Buckingham Palace. For that evening, she chose a rich velvet Alexander McQueen gown, the Cambridge Lover’s Knot Tiara (a favorite of Princess Diana’s), and the full regalia of royal orders and sashes. The Nizam necklace’s cascade of diamonds perfectly complemented the formal diplomatic setting, sparkling under the chandeliers as she greeted ambassadors.
Royal watchers noted how Catherine’s styling emphasized the necklace’s grandeur without overwhelming her understated elegance. Insiders say the Queen personally approved each loan, seeing Catherine as a worthy steward of these historic pieces.
(Image: Catherine wearing the Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace at the 2019 Diplomatic Reception, paired with the Lover’s Knot Tiara and velvet gown – Getty Images)
Why It’s Considered the Most Expensive
While Catherine has worn other extraordinary jewels—including:
The Cambridge Lover’s Knot Tiara (estimated $1–10+ million, a frequent favorite).
The Cartier Halo Tiara (around $1.7 million, worn on her wedding day).
The Greville Chandelier Earrings (valued at $2+ million).
The Oriental Circlet Tiara (with 2,600 diamonds, estimated $8 million+),
none match the Nizam necklace’s reported valuation. Sources like InStyle, Harper’s Bazaar, The Sun, and jewelry experts at auction houses place it far ahead, often calling it the most valuable piece in the late Queen’s personal collection that Catherine has worn publicly.
Its value isn’t just monetary—it’s tied to rarity, provenance (a direct wedding gift to a queen), and the sheer carat weight and quality of the diamonds. In a 2025 roundup, InStyle noted that Catherine has worn at least $97 million worth of the late Queen’s jewelry overall, with the Nizam piece accounting for the lion’s share.
The Symbolism & Lasting Impact
Beyond its price tag, the necklace carries deep symbolism. It represents continuity: from Queen Elizabeth II’s wedding in 1947 to Catherine’s role as future queen. Wearing it is a quiet nod to the monarchy’s enduring legacy and Catherine’s place within it.
Fans and commentators often highlight how Catherine wears these historic pieces with grace rather than ostentation—allowing their history to shine through. One royal expert reflected:
“The Nizam necklace isn’t just expensive—it’s a bridge across generations. When Catherine wears it, she’s not just accessorizing; she’s honoring a tradition that dates back nearly 80 years.”
In an era where royal jewelry often sparks debate, the Nizam of Hyderabad Necklace remains a rare, undisputed showstopper: breathtaking, historically rich, and undeniably the most expensive piece Catherine has ever worn.
A diamond testament to royal splendor—one that continues to dazzle.
