In a new twist to the royal family saga, recent revelations have highlighted Prince William's role in preventing Meghan Markle from wearing Princess Diana's jewelry at her wedding to Prince Harry.
This disclosure is detailed in royal biographer Robert Jobson's latest book, "Katherine the Princess of Wales," which delves into the complex dynamics within the royal family. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle exchanged vows in May 2018 at St. George's Chapel, an event watched by millions around the world. Meghan's bridal look was complemented by the Queen Mary Diamond Bandeau Tiara. However, notably absent from her ensemble were any jewelry pieces that once belonged to the late Princess Diana.
According to Jobson, this omission wasn't coincidental but a direct result of Prince William's intervention. Jobson's book reveals that Prince William, concerned about his brother's choice of bride, actively sought assurances from Queen Elizabeth II that Meghan wouldn't wear any of Diana's jewelry. William's concerns about the match even led him to seek further assurances from the Queen regarding his brother's bride-to-be and her access to Diana's collection. This move contrasted sharply with Catherine, the Princess of Wales, who had been permitted to wear Diana's pieces, reflecting her acceptance and rank within the royal family.
William's reservations about Meghan and Harry's relationship were evident from the start. He reportedly advised Harry to cool the relationship, suggesting that Meghan needed time to adjust to royal life. This advice, however, did not sit well with Harry. Jobson notes that Harry felt judged and insulted by his brother's comments, leading to a rapid deterioration in their relationship. The tension between the two brothers has been a subject of public speculation and scrutiny, exacerbated by this latest revelation.
Despite the initial restrictions imposed by William, Meghan has been seen wearing various pieces from Diana's collection in the years following her wedding. For instance, during her first public appearance in Australia following her pregnancy announcement, Meghan wore butterfly earrings that once belonged to Diana. Additionally, Meghan's engagement ring features two small stones from Diana's collection, symbolizing her connection to her late mother-in-law. At the 2022 Invictus Games, Meghan wore a gold Cartier Tank watch believed to be inherited from Diana. In May 2024, during a visit to Nigeria, Meghan was spotted wearing a diamond cross pendant reportedly belonging to Diana. Although this piece was never publicly worn by the late princess, it was a sentimental gift from Harry, underscoring Meghan's continued incorporation of Diana's legacy into her own royal journey.
The revelations in Jobson's book also illuminate broader tensions within the royal family. The strained relationship between William and Harry predates Meghan's entry into the royal fold but was exacerbated by her presence. Jobson suggests that William's concerns about the rapid pace of Harry and Meghan's relationship were a significant factor in the brothers' deteriorating bond. Furthermore, Jobson's book touches upon other royal family dynamics, including a reported clash between King Charles and Prince William over the safety of the royal family's air travel. King Charles, worried about the safety of William, Catherine, and their children, raised the issue with William, resulting in a heated exchange. Charles even presented William with a formal document acknowledging the risks involved and taking full responsibility for his actions.
As these revelations come to light, they offer a deeper understanding of the complexities and conflicts within the royal family. Prince William's intervention in Meghan's choice of wedding jewelry underscores the intricate and sometimes contentious nature of royal relationships.
