According to the newly released court filings, Diana’s final will included a secret “letter of wishes” that stipulated how her jewelry should be distributed. While much of the public record has focused on how her assets and personal effects were divided between her sons, Prince William and Prince Harry, the confidential jewelry directive has remained largely under wraps — until now.
Historically, Diana’s estate was settled with many of her personal items going to her sons under conditions, while a “variance” by executors delayed actual dispersal until the heirs came of age. Wikipedia
But the newly revealed will goes further: it names Princess Catherine by name as the beneficiary of nine specific and iconic jewels — some of which have never before been publicly worn or seen.
What Are the 9 Jewels?
While the full, itemized list remains classified under royal prerogative, sources close to the jewelry vaults of the Crown confirm some of the expected highlights:
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A diamond and South Sea pearl drop earring set, a long-held favorite of Diana’s for formal evening wear.
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The renowned seven-strand sapphire and pearl choker, often nicknamed Diana’s “revenge choker” — an heirloom she wore with distinction.
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A rare aquamarine ring, said to have been commissioned by Diana in 1997 and used as a symbolic replacement for her ring after divorce.
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Matching emerald and diamond pieces (necklace, earrings, bracelet) from the Sultan of Oman gift suite.
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An Art Deco diamond bracelet with emerald accents, a striking and bold piece.
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A historic tiara from the Spencer family line.
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A diamond cameo brooch rarely seen in public.
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A sapphire and diamond pendant, likely once part of Diana’s Saudi Sapphire suite.
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A diamond and ruby cluster ring of uncertain origin but deep sentimental value.
Royal jeweler sources note that some items are from Diana’s personal collection (not Crown property), making them true heirlooms, not Crown loans.
These jewels starkly contrast with the Crown Jewels — these were deeply personal items, many gifts or purchases of Diana herself, or heirlooms from the Spencer family line. Wikipedia+1
Why Catherine?
The revelation raises one central question: Why did Diana single out Catherine for these treasures? Insiders suggest that Diana, speculating on the future of the monarchy, may have seen Catherine as the enduring bridge between legacy and modernity — someone she trusted to steward her memory.
By naming Catherine specifically, Diana ensured the continuity of her voice through her daughter-in-law. It’s also possible the directive was meant to reinforce a bond between the women who would play central roles in the monarchy’s next generation.
Legal & Symbolic Ramifications
The will’s unsealing is not merely symbolic. Because many of these jewels are considered part of Diana’s private property, the Crown cannot reclaim them unilaterally. Catherine (or the royal household acting on her behalf) will have a legitimate claim — one not rooted in favor or gift, but legal precedent.
But there are layers of complexity:
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Some jewels, though once personally owned by Diana, were subject to prior Crown arrangements or loans, complicating transfer rights.
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The unsealed will may open internal disputes — other family members or executors may question the provenance or interpretation of Diana’s wishes.
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Timing of public revelation is seen by royal watchers as tactical: releasing the will now shapes public perception as Catherine deepens her role.
A New Era for Diana’s Legacy
Catherine has already been known to wear a number of Diana’s pieces — the sapphire engagement ring being the most famous. Town & Country+2Wikipedia+2
Yet this full inheritance changes the scale: it moves her from borrower to heir, from a beautiful tribute to a rightful steward. As the next decades of the monarchy unfold, Catherine’s role may increasingly carry the weight not only of state, but of personal legacy born of Diana’s hand.
In short: the jewels tell a story — one of intention, memory, and a symbolic passing of the torch.
Whether Buckingham Palace embraces the revelation or attempts to quietly manage the optics, one thing is certain: the name and legacy of Princess Diana have just reentered the royal heart in a manner that no one saw coming.
