The dazzling history of the Brazilian Aquamarine Tiara that was worn by Queen Elizabeth II on historic state visits

Queen Elizabeth II wore the tiara for her state visit to the country in 1968. The entire parure was also on show for her historic state visit to China in 1986, and for her state visit to Russia eight years later. In a mark of respect for the people who gave her the beautiful gems that make up the parure, the Queen also donned the Brazilian Aquamarine tiara for each of the three inbound state visits from Brazil during her reign.

The final time Queen Elizabeth II wore the Brazilian Aquamarine Tiara was for the state banquet held in honour of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain in 2017

It continued to be a favourite into her final decade on the throne and was last seen at the state banquet held at Buckingham Palace in honour of King Felipe VI and Queen Letizia of Spain in 2017. It has yet to be seen adorning the heads of any other royal women but aquamarines are a gemstone loved by her daughter-in-law, the Duchess of Edinburgh. Could Sophie be the first to wear the Brazilian Aquamarine Tiara in the reign of King Charles III.

For now, a new generation of royal fans will have the opportunity to see this spectacular piece in person. And where better than at Buckingham Palace, the site of many of Her Majesty's most memorable – and majestic – tiara moments.