Ever since her engagement to Prince William with Diana’s world-famous sapphire ring, Kate Middleton’s jewellery has been something of a talking point. This week, she made headlines again, when she pre-ordered four items of jewellery from New Zealand jewellers, Tory & Ko, ahead of her royal tour down under.
The items were as delicate as we have come to expect from Kate, and as precious (though certainly less out of reach than her engagement ring). Firstly, there were two pairs of earrings from the ‘Pretty’ collection – gold bows, punctuated with a pearl ‘knot’, with silver drops; one pair featuring blue topaz gemstones and the other in citrine. Then, from the ‘Bespoke’ collection, a necklace and earrings in cultured pearl and diamonds, both set in 18ct white gold.
The pieces totalled £3,000, but we suspect that will soon be overshadowed by the orders that follow on the back of the extensive PR coverage the story has enjoyed. And that’s before she’s even worn them.
So how did Kate (or her advisers) stumble upon Tory & Ko’s jewellery?
As is often the case, it was someone in the know. It turns out that designer, Tory, whose full name is Victoria Taylor, is the sister of New York based fashion designer, Rebecca Taylor, who has, in the past, selected wardrobe items for Kate.
But, whether Rebecca helped put the jewellers in touch with Kensington Palace or not, it’s no surprise that the palace placed an order. The collections are quite literally, fit for royalty, and will provide a stunning souvenir from Kate’s royal tour; with the gesture also serving to endear her to the kiwis while over there.
And, although, doubtless, the Windsors can afford to replace any lost items of jewellery, when it comes to items as pretty as this, we trust they will insure them!
