Lady Diana Spencer Sapphire Pearl Choker
The provenance of the Princess Diana pearl choker is a notable example of the late Princess’s practice of adapting traditional ornaments to suit a contemporary aesthetic. The focal point of this Diana pearl choker was originally an expansive oval sapphire and diamond brooch, gifted to Lady Diana Spencer by the Queen Mother upon her marriage in 1981. Initially, the Princess Diana sapphire brooch necklace was utilized in its traditional format as a lapel ornament for state functions. However, the Princess subsequently commissioned a modification, integrating the brooch as the central clasp for a seven-strand pearl arrangement, resulting in the Diana sapphire pearl choker documented in historical archives.
The architectural composition of the Princess Diana sapphire and pearl choker is defined by its substantial scale and the visual contrast between the organic luster of the pearls and the saturated hue of the central gemstone. The primary element, frequently identified as the Princess Diana blue sapphire necklace, features a large oval sapphire encircled by two tiers of diamonds. This cluster acts as the anchor for seven rows of cultured pearls, a configuration that distinguishes it from a more conventional Princess Diana pearl necklace. This high-sitting style became a hallmark of the Princess's wardrobe, often referred to as the Diana choker. The structural boldness of the Lady Diana sapphire necklace allowed it to remain a visible centerpiece against varied ceremonial attire.
This particular Princess Diana necklace is historically associated with a pivotal moment in 20th-century royal history. In June 1994, the Princess Diana pearl and sapphire choker was chosen to accompany a significant black evening gown for an appearance at the Serpentine Gallery. The visual impact of the Diana sapphire necklace during this event established the Princess Diana choker as an emblem of personal autonomy. Furthermore, the Diana pearl and sapphire necklace was frequently utilized during international diplomatic missions, most notably during a 1985 state visit to the White House.
Currently, the Princess Diana sapphire pearl necklace is maintained within the private royal archives as a significant historical artifact. Unlike several other prominent jewels, this Lady Diana pearl necklace has remained out of the public eye since 1997. The enduring cultural impact of the piece is reflected in the continued interest in a Princess Diana sapphire & pearl choker replica or a pearl choker like Princess Diana wore. Whether categorized as Diana's sapphire choker, the Princess Diana pearl sapphire necklace, or Diana's pearl necklace, the object remains a defining record of late 20th-century royal style.
