It is always great to see rarely-worn pieces again. But rarely-worn
and unusual? That’s a double dose of happiness for any true jewelaholic.
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| Queen Emma's Aigrette worn as a hairpiece |
In 1879 Queen Emma of the Netherlands received a beautiful diamond aigrette as a wedding present. The aigrette consists of twelve diamond twigs with leaves, and diamonds set in collet at the end. It’s a pretty versatile piece and can be worn both as a hair ornament and as a brooch: Maxima has worn it both ways, and both times with a stunning result.
The first occasion in many decades (quite possibly, the first-time in over a century) the aigrette saw the light of the day was on 28 May 2011, for a concert during Princess Maxima’s 40th birthday celebrations. Back then, Maxima paired it with her gorgeous citrine earrings and brooch.
