Queen Camilla Faces Backlash After Taking Duchess Sophie's Beloved Aquamarine Tiara

 

Since ascending to the throne alongside King Charles III, Queen Camilla has quietly been building her personal royal jewelry collection. But her latest move has sparked widespread backlash—not just from royal watchers, but from loyal admirers of the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Camilla has reportedly claimed six of the late Queen’s tiaras in less than six months. Yet what has caused the biggest stir is her decision to take over a piece not meant for her: the Brazilian Aquamarine Tiara that once belonged to Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh.

More than just a piece of royal jewelry, this tiara held deep emotional value. It symbolized Queen Elizabeth’s personal bond with Sophie—a quiet but trusted presence in the royal family—and many believe Camilla’s demand for it crossed a line.

A Tiara with Personal Meaning

The aquamarine tiara in question wasn’t just any royal heirloom. It was originally part of Queen Elizabeth II’s own collection. While the late monarch herself possessed a larger and more elaborate Brazilian aquamarine tiara—often seen during state visits—she eventually passed this smaller, elegant piece to her daughter-in-law Sophie as a personal gift.

It was a rare gesture. Known for her discretion and loyalty, Sophie had earned the Queen’s trust over many years of service and support. She was often praised for staying out of royal drama, quietly fulfilling her duties, and offering calm strength behind the scenes.

The tiara became something of a signature for Sophie. Whether attending state banquets, royal weddings, or national ceremonies, she wore it with quiet confidence and grace. To many in the royal household, the tiara was a symbol of both style and sentiment—a reflection of Sophie’s unique place in the family.

Camilla’s Claim Sparks Controversy

Despite now having access to the Crown Jewels and a wide range of tiaras more suited to her role as Queen, Camilla reportedly requested that Sophie relinquish the aquamarine tiara as well. The request, sources say, was not made with sentiment or diplomacy—but as a matter of “entitlement.”

The reaction was swift and critical.

Royal commentators questioned why Camilla, who already has access to far more opulent pieces, would go out of her way to take something so personal from another royal woman—especially one as dignified and low-profile as Sophie.

“The Queen Consort has access to the vaults of Windsor,” one royal insider told British press. “It’s hard to understand why she felt the need to take a tiara that was clearly associated with someone else, and with Her late Majesty’s affection.”

To many, it appears to be less about need, and more about image. Some speculate that Camilla is trying to rewrite her public image by aligning herself more closely with Queen Elizabeth’s legacy—starting with the jewels the Queen once gave to those she trusted most.

Public Reaction: “This Was a Gift”

The British public, still protective of Queen Elizabeth’s legacy, hasn’t taken kindly to Camilla’s decision.

On social media, posts criticizing the move have gone viral, with users describing it as “tone-deaf,” “ungracious,” and “a calculated move for attention.” Many have emphasized that the tiara wasn’t just property—it was a gift, and therefore should have remained with Sophie as part of her personal collection.

“She earned that tiara with years of quiet service,” one user wrote. “Camilla has no right to take it away just because she wears a crown now.”

Others pointed out that Sophie’s popularity has only grown since Queen Elizabeth’s passing. Her dignified presence, particularly during the Queen’s funeral and public engagements afterward, reminded many of the late monarch’s own steadiness and restraint.

In contrast, Camilla’s desire to absorb every visible sign of royal seniority—down to other women’s tiaras—has struck a wrong note with many.

A Pattern of Overreach?

This isn’t the first time Camilla’s jewelry choices have caused a stir. In recent months, she has reportedly worn several tiaras and brooches that had not been seen since Queen Elizabeth’s passing—many of which were long associated with the Queen’s signature style.

While she is certainly entitled to wear royal jewels in her new role, critics say Camilla’s approach feels more like acquisition than stewardship.

“What people respond to is not just what she wears, but how she wears it,” a royal historian explained. “If the public senses possessiveness or erasure, rather than reverence and continuity, they’ll push back.”

In the case of Sophie’s aquamarine tiara, that pushback is already happening.

Where Does This Leave Sophie?

Neither Sophie nor Buckingham Palace has issued any public statement on the matter—true to form. But those close to the Duchess of Edinburgh say she has taken the situation in stride.

“She’s disappointed, but not surprised,” said a source familiar with royal protocol. “Sophie’s strength has always been her humility. She’ll carry on, with or without the tiara.”

And perhaps that’s the true contrast here. While Camilla may be Queen by title, Sophie remains a queen in the eyes of many—graceful, grounded, and unwilling to play petty games with family heirlooms.