Imagine a room filled with glittering jewels, royal elegance, and diplomatic grace—a scene straight out of a fairy tale. But here’s where it gets fascinating: British royal tiaras stole the spotlight at a recent diplomatic gala dinner in Norway, blending history, fashion, and family legacy in the most captivating way. Today, as Princess Astrid, the resilient and ever-devoted sister of Norway’s King Harald V, celebrates her 94th birthday, we’re taking a closer look at the stunning tiaras she and Queen Sonja donned for this unforgettable evening in Oslo.
On January 29, King Harald V and Queen Sonja hosted a white-tie gala dinner for the diplomatic corps at the Royal Palace in Oslo. Joining them were Crown Prince Haakon and Princess Astrid, who, despite her age, continues to be a pillar of support at royal events. Queen Sonja, known for her impeccable style, wore a breathtaking purple tulle gown by Elie Saab, adorned with sequins. And this is the part most people miss: This wasn’t the first time she’s worn this dress—it made its debut at a French gala banquet in June 2025. But what truly set this ensemble apart was her choice of jewelry.
Unlike her previous pairing of diamonds with the gown, Sonja opted for a family heirloom this time: the replica of Queen Maud’s Pearl Tiara, complemented by diamond and pearl earrings, a five-row pearl necklace, a three-row pearl bracelet, and a pearl ring. Here’s where it gets controversial: She secured the sash of the Order of St. Olav with the Drapers’ Company Brooch, a wedding gift to Queen Maud in 1896. While some see it as a nod to tradition, others question whether such historic pieces should be worn regularly—what do you think?
With Crown Princess Mette-Marit absent due to health issues and recent scandals, Princess Astrid was the only other royal lady present. She chose a beloved evening gown with a starry design, paired with a diamond and turquoise tiara originally owned by Queen Alexandra of the United Kingdom, Queen Maud’s mother. Astrid also wore matching diamond and turquoise necklace and earrings, a combination she often favors. But here’s the intriguing twist: She added another British-rooted piece to her ensemble—a devant de corsage, pinned as a brooch on her order sash. According to Trond Norén Isaksen’s book on Norway’s royal jewels, this piece once belonged to Queen Alexandra and was later associated with Queen Mary, though Isaksen later clarified this was an error. Still, the brooch’s design echoes two antique pieces worn by the late Queen Elizabeth II, sparking questions about its origins and connections.
Here’s a thought to ponder: Could Astrid’s stomacher, with its striking similarities to Queen Mary’s Richmond Brooch and her turquoise wedding gift, date back to the same 1893 period? While we may never know for sure, one thing is certain—these jewels tell stories of history, family, and diplomacy. What’s your take on the royal tiaras and their hidden tales? Let’s discuss in the comments!
