The Incredible Story Behind Duchess Kate Latest Necklace
Earlier this week, Prince William and Kate spoke to a group of nursing students from Ulster University in Northern Ireland, to hear more about their experiences of studying during the pandemic.
For the call, Kate embraced her business casual style. She opted for a black, Alexander McQueen blazer over a white sweater. However, it was her gemstone necklace that really caught our eye. The necklace, which is designed by Astley Clarke, is called the round still lapis lazuli pendant necklace. The lapis lazuli gemstone is a stone of protection, meant to release stress and bring harmony.
Not only is lapis lazuli also has some historic royal connections. It was famously used in the death mask of King Tutankhamen, and Cleopatra was known to use ground lapis lazuli as eyeshadow.
The Astley Clarke website states: “A celebration of vibrancy, this demi-fine Stilla gemstone pendant features a captivating table-cut lapis lazuli gem, set in 18-carat yellow gold plated sterling silver, and uses a spectacle setting to display the entire blue gemstone and show its complexities beautifully.”
But, its significance apparently goes even deeper for Duchess Kate. According to Prima, a spokesman for Astley Clarke: “It appears Carole purchased this for her back in November.”
If this is indeed true, then Kate’s necklace was an especially thoughtful gift from her mother, Carole Middleton.
Speaking from the Queen’s Sandringham home, Kate praised the group of students: “Nursing is one of the most trusted professions in the country, so you couldn’t have chosen a better career choice and it’s needed now more than ever.
“You’ve got almost three generations now – those coming back from retirement but also you guys doing your training who are stepping up – it shows real commitment and real teamwork, and it should really be celebrated, so really well done.”