Sophie, Countess of Wessex, has been part of the Royal Family since marrying Prince Edward at Windsor Castle on 19 June 1999. Since the wedding, Sophie and Edward have had two children together, Lady Louise Windsor, 15, and James, Viscount Severn, 11. For the grand ceremony, Sophie opted to wear a stunning specially-designed tiara which was made for her using jewellery from the royal collection. A look back at her wedding jewellery reveals a key detail about her relationship with the Royal Family.
It is common for royal brides to pick their wedding jewellery from the royal collection, but Sophie’s tiara was much more unique.
Opting for a custom-made option, Sophie wore a tiara which was believed to be gifted to her by Queen Elizabeth II, 93.
The tiara is thought to be made from four anthemion elements which were originally alternative pieces of Queen Victoria’s Regal Circlet.
A closer look revealed four anthemion sections composed of twisting diamond floral motifs set on a a gold frame.
This appeared to be from Queen Victoria’s Regal Circlet, which was was made with a set of detachable fleur-de-lis, Maltese cross, and anthemion elements that could be swapped out and rearranged.
By wearing such a special design full of royal history, Sophie showed her positive relationship with the Royal Family.
It was not confirmed by Buckingham Palace where the tiara did come from, but if the design was commissioned by the Queen, the affection Sophie shared for the royals seemed to go both ways.
What’s more, Sophie also made a sweet link to Prince Edward in the choice of jewellery she wore to style her wedding dress.
The Countess wore a special black and white pearl necklace which had a cross fashioned from pearls at the front.
She complemented the look with a pair of matching pearl earrings and both parts of the set was believed to be a gift from Prince Edward.
Since getting married, Sophie and Edward have worked as full-time royals and are often spotted at various events on behalf of the Queen.
Recently, it has seemed Sophie is getting more responsibilities and may have a more senior role after she made a trip to Lebanon.
During the trip to meet with charities, Sophie become the first member of the Royal Family to ever visit the country.
According to a royal biographer, the couple are still very happy in their marriage.
This could be down to a warning Edward issued to the media not to hassle Sophie or give her unwanted attention.