Princess Anne has revealed a touching secret tribute to her late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, as she accompanied the monarch's coffin to Buckingham Palace. The Princess Royal, 72, chose to wear a pair of Grima pearl earrings, a gift from her parents, the Queen and Prince Philip, during the poignant journey.
The earrings, which combine gold, pearl, and diamonds in a modern leaf design, have been in Anne's regular rotation since the 1960s. While not the most expensive item in her collection, she has worn them at significant personal milestones, including her father Prince Philip's funeral in 2021, her wedding to Timothy Laurence in 1992, and the Queen's Platinum Jubilee celebrations.
Anne released a moving statement on Tuesday evening, reflecting on her mother's final hours. She said: 'I was fortunate to share the last 24 hours of my dearest Mother's life. It has been an honour and a privilege to accompany her on her final journeys.'
She added: 'Witnessing the love and respect shown by so many on these journeys has been both humbling and uplifting. We will all share unique memories. I offer my thanks to each and every one who share our sense of loss.'
Anne concluded: 'We may have been reminded how much of her presence and contribution to our national identity we took for granted. I am also so grateful for the support and understanding offered to my dear brother Charles as he accepts the added responsibilities of The Monarch. To my mother, The Queen, thank you.'
