Forever one of the most stylish royals, Princess Anne boasts an extraordinary jewellery collection. But one gem stands out above the rest: the lustrous pearl! Join us as we explore the Princess Royal’s favourite gemstone and enduring love for stunning pearl jewellery…
Pearl Jewellery Symbolism
At one point in time pearls were considered more valuable than diamonds on account of their lustre – the iridescent shine of pearls that create that magical glow. During the Edwardian era lustrous pearls were worn by royalty and the upper class as a depiction of wealth and status.
In roman mythology pears were associated with the goddess of love, Aphrodite, who is often depicted emerging from a mollusk whilst Greek mythology is said to believe pearls were her tears of joy. The link between pearls and love has stood the test of time, often used in weddings to symbolise purity, love, and fidelity and their white appearance tying into the bright bridal look.
Beyond marital bliss, the pearl has been associated with wisdom and protection. In Chinese culture pearls are seen as a defence against evil spirits and in turn a gemstone of good fortune!
Princess Anne’s Pearl Collection
Triple Strand Necklace
Inherited from her mother, the Princess Royal has been seen several times wearing her famous three strand pearl necklace following her passing. Queen Elizabeth II commissioned the necklace herself and is considered one of her most worn pieces, worn for nearly all of her daytime engagements in her 70-year reign.
Grima Pearl Earrings
Princess Anne’s Grima pearl earrings are one of her longest serving jewellery pieces. Gifted to her in the late 1960s by her parents, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, the earrings have been worn in serval important life events, from her first royal tour as an adult to wedding in 1992.
Crafted by renowned designer Andrew Grima, each stud holds a large pearl surrounded by an unusually shaped halo of gold and diamonds. Interestingly, the earrings have detachable pendant sections, which Princess Anne wore in her younger years.
She wore the Grima earrings at her parents’ funerals, a sentimental testament to her close relationship with both parents and the emotional value of the earrings, and in line with royal tradition (but more on that later!)
Empress Marie Feodorovna Sapphire and Pearl Choker
Featuring four rows of pearls and adorned with diamonds and sapphire clasps, the Empress Marie Feodorovna sapphire and pearl choker is a legendary piece of jewellery. Originally belonging to Empress Marie Feodorovna of Russia, the necklace is one of the few jewels she managed to escape Russa in 1919 before being bought by Queen Mary.
Only worn a few times in the 1930s, the choker was then inherited by Queen Elizabeth II and was worn primarily as two bracelets instead of the choker style. The queen passed the choker onto a grateful Princess Anne in the early 1970s who frequently wore it for numerous occasions. She was famously pictured in her younger years wearing the pearl choker during the royal tour of Canada in 1974, paired with the diamond festoon. Worn many events since, she has also been seen to wear it at recent events such as Prince William’s pre-wedding gala and recently the 2025 International Financial Review dinner at London’s Grosvenor House Hote.
A Royal Tradition: Pearls in the British Monarchy
Before Princess Anne, the British Royal Family has a long and rich history with pearls. If we look back to depictions of monarchs during the Tudor era, Queen Elizabeth I is famously depicted in portraits dripping in pearls. Alongside necklaces and earrings, pearls were sewn into her dress and hairpieces as symbolism of her purity and divine right. Historians believe she had over 3000 pearl encrusted gowns in her wardrobe.
Pearl Crowns and Tiaras
The Imperial State crown, made in 1937 for the coronation of King George VI, is set with 269 pearls. It was based on Queen Victoria’s 1838 crown which was heavier than the new addition and harder to wear. Many other crown jewels feature pearls, including many famed tiaras such as the Lover’s Knot Tiara.
Originally commissioned by Garrad for Queen Mary, the tiara held 38 pearls, 19 on the upright side and 19 hanging from the arches. The upright pearls were later removed and replaced with diamonds and the tiara was passed down to Elizabeth II and in turn to Princess Diana.
Multi-layered Necklaces
The late Princess Diana was a big fan of pearls, often sporting multi layered pearl chokers to events. Such necklaces have then been passed on to Princess Kate, whilst Queen Elizbeth II passed her necklaces onto Princess Anne, who wears pearls to majority of her engagements.
Respectful Pearls
You might not have noticed but Royals always wear pearls in mourning due to a long-standing tradition started by Queen Victoria. After her husband’s death, she extensively wore pearls – thought to be a respectful and subtle choice of jewellery as opposed to a more ostentatious look. This is why most Victorian mourning jewellery feature pearls, which create a striking look against darker materials like onyx or jet. Since then, the British royal family can often be seen to wear pearls in mourning, honouring traditional whilst looking elegant and refined.
Get the Look: Princess-Inspired Pieces for Your Own Collection
Antique and Vintage Pearl Earrings
Get the regal look with antique pearl earrings, perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to everyday looks and refined elegance to evening attire. These vintage cluster earring evoke Princess Anne’s favourite Grima earrings, with feature pearls surrounded by diamonds and yellow gold. Alternatively look at delicate pearl drop earrings from the late 19th century for a style worthy of royalty!
Multi-Strand Necklaces with Statement Clasps
For a more formal take on her look, consider a multi-strand pearl necklace or choker. Antique versions often feature ornate clasps with gemstone accents, perfect for weddings, dinners, or formal events. The best part is the versatility of these pieces, as clasps can be worn at the front or back depending on your occasion!
Accessorise with Pearl Brooches
With brooches making a style come back, explore the vast variety of antique and vintage pearl brooches. A pearl-accented vintage brooch can add a touch of Princess Anne-inspired charm to any coat or blazer. Choose classic motifs like floral sprays or bows from the 1940s–1960s for a timeless and whimsical accessory or hack back to the era of Queen Victoria with antique Victorian brooches accented with pearls for a royal and historical feel.
Princess Anne’s enduring love of pearls is a reflection of her timeless style, royal heritage, and unspoken elegance. Whether worn for state occasions or more personal moments, her pearl collection is certainly one of her most worn and beloved. By embracing antique and vintage pearl pieces, we can capture a touch of that same grace—proving that regal style never goes out of fashion.
