Kate Middleton brings Oriental Circlet back to spotlight with Mughal inspiration

New Delhi: Kate Middleton stepped into the spotlight with quiet radiance as she attended a state dinner hosted in honour of German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier. Her shimmering Jenny Packham gown fit the evening’s formality, but it was the rare revival of the Oriental Circlet that captured global attention. The tiara, steeped in history, last appeared in public nearly two decades ago. Its Mughal-inspired arches, lotus motifs, and intricate diamond-ruby detailing draw directly from Indian design influence, an aesthetic that has travelled through generations of British royalty.

Originally crafted in 1853 for Queen Victoria, the piece reflects Victorian fascination with Indian craftsmanship. With its 2,600 diamonds and rich Burmese rubies, the tiara feels both opulent and intimate, a blend of artistry and royalty. Kate’s choice to wear it not only revived a long-resting heirloom but also unveiled a rare intersection of heritage, symbolism, and contemporary regal fashion.

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1. Mughal-inspired design legacy

Crafted in 1853 for Queen Victoria, the tiara draws heavily from Indian motifs. Its lotus-shaped clusters and arch patterns echo Mughal artistry, reflecting the era’s admiration for Eastern craftsmanship. The design’s symmetry and fluidity lend the piece a sculptural presence on modern red carpets.

2. Evolution from opals to rubies

Prince Albert originally commissioned the tiara with opals and 2,600 diamonds. Over time, opals were replaced due to superstitions, making way for Burmese rubies gifted to Queen Victoria. The updated palette brought warmth to its structure without altering its original Indian-inspired form.

3. Royal lineage and rare appearances

After passing through Queen Alexandra and later Queen Elizabeth II, the tiara remained mostly unseen. Kate’s appearance marks one of the few moments the Oriental Circlet has been worn publicly in the last century.

4. Contemporary styling by Kate

Paired with a Jenny Packham gown, Kate allowed the tiara to take centre stage. The combination of sleek silhouette and historic jewellery created a look that felt timeless yet modern, highlighting her preference for minimalist glamour with meaningful heirlooms.

Kate Middleton’s choice of the Oriental Circlet reintroduced a historic Mughal-influenced masterpiece to the world. Through its rare appearance, the tiara connected royal tradition, craftsmanship, and contemporary elegance in a single striking moment.