The late Queen's jewellery collection was renowned around the world, featuring everything from sparkling tiaras to diamond-encrusted pieces and pearl necklaces. An insider has revealed that Princess Catherine is likely to inherit the iconic tiara. The diamond tiara is one of the most important items in the royal collection. It has appeared on British and Commonwealth postage stamps and banknotes, although it is rarely seen in public.

Since the 19th century, only four queens have worn the red diamond tiara: Victoria, Alexandra, Mary and Elizabeth II. Queen Elizabeth II has worn the tiara several times during her reign, including at her first State Opening of Parliament in 1952 and during her coronation tour in 1953. She continues to wear it on many official occasions and is photographed on currency. Commissioned by George IV in 1820, it originally cost £8,216.

Using jewels from the royal collection for Queen Victoria, it is estimated to be worth nearly £800,000 today. Since George IV died in 1830, every queen has worn it, starting with Queen Adelaide. Camilla, wife of King Charles III, could be the next to wear the tiara at her upcoming coronation in May. When Prince William ascends the throne, Kate Middleton will become Queen, and there is a strong chance that it will happen in our lifetime.

The royal family said she would be crowned alongside William in a similar but simpler ceremony. The Royal Collection Trust describes the diamond tiara as having a silver and gold border design, with an openwork design and decorated with diamonds and pearls. It includes 1,333 diamonds, with a prominent pale yellow diamond in the centre. The tiara has been depicted in several portraits of Queen Elizabeth II.

The tiara was originally created in 1937 for Queen Elizabeth and features around 2,800 diamonds, including the remarkable 105-carat Koh-i-Noor diamond in the front cross. The diamond was presented to Queen Victoria in 1856 and later became part of the crown jewels, used in various tiaras over time.