She was not born into the Royal Family, but Birgitte, the Duchess of Gloucester boasts a dazzling collection of jewels worthy of any monarch.

At the German state banquet at Windsor Castle, the Duchess showcased one of the most spectacular pieces in her collection – the Cartier Indian Tiara, which was recently loaned to the V&A for the Cartier exhibition.

The tiara was originally owned by Queen Victoria 's granddaughter, Princess Marie Louise, daughter of Princess Helena. Crafted by Cariter with pearls, sapphires and diamonds, the piece was originally intended for Beatrice Forbes, Countess of Granard, according to royal jewel authority The Court Jeweller . It was acquired by Princess Marie Louise in time for the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1937. She also wore

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