In May 2022, Madrid hosted one of the most striking diplomatic meetings in recent years: the Emir of Qatar, Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, visited Spain with his wife. The visit concluded with a grand dinner at the palace, attended by members of the Spanish elite and guests connected to the Arab world. That evening, Queen Letizia chose not to wear a traditional tiara, as a sign of respect for the customs of the Qatari delegation, and opted for an outfit with oriental elements by designer Gabriel Lage. The highlight of her look, however, was a pair of new diamond earrings, which she wore for the first time that night.
The jewelry immediately caught everyone’s eye: the earrings are crafted in the shape of delicate leaves, fully encrusted with diamonds, and are of medium length. With the queen’s hair swept back, every guest could see their intricate details. More than just a gift, these earrings represent a diplomatic gesture and a symbol of respect between the two monarchies.
Jewelry Details
Experts note that the earrings are designed in a chandelier style and are most likely made of platinum. They feature four large pear-shaped diamonds, six smaller stones of the same cut, two dozen marquise diamonds, and eight round stones. The total weight of the earrings is estimated to be seven to eight carats, with a value that could reach up to 50,000 euros. There is speculation that the earrings may have been part of a larger set, possibly including a necklace or bracelet.
According to the rules established for the Spanish royal family in 2015, all gifts received by the monarchs are inventoried. After that, it is determined whether the gifts remain property of the crown, are transferred to the state, or are donated to charitable organizations. In the case of these earrings, it was decided to include them in the National Heritage collection, although the queen may wear them at her discretion. However, since the 2022 dinner, Letizia has not been seen wearing these jewels in public.
Gifts from the East
During the same visit, the emir presented Queen Letizia with another valuable gift—a gold belt set with diamonds and Arabic calligraphy, considered one of Qatar’s highest awards. King Felipe received a sword and a sculpture, while in return the Spanish side awarded the emir the Order of Isabella the Catholic and the symbolic keys to the El Pardo Palace.
The generosity of Arab monarchs has long been known in Spain. In 2018, Saudi Arabia’s Prince Salman also presented members of the royal family with luxurious jewelry and accessories: King Felipe received cufflinks, a watch, a ring, and prayer beads, while Queen Letizia received a necklace, a bracelet, earrings, and a ring. Princesses Leonor and Sofía received watches, and Queen Sofía was given an elegant chain.
The history of royal jewels
Gifts from Arab leaders have repeatedly enriched the Spanish monarchy’s collection. In the 1980s and 1990s, King Juan Carlos received not only jewelry but also yachts, cars, and even a mansion from Middle Eastern rulers. Over her years on the throne, Queen Sofía built an impressive jewelry wardrobe, including diamond earrings and a necklace from the Sultan of Oman, pieces that Letizia later wore on more than one occasion. In 1981, Sofía appeared in public with a diamond and ruby necklace—a gift from King Khalid of Saudi Arabia.
At a 2023 dinner in Copenhagen, Letizia opted for diamond and sapphire earrings that originally belonged to Sofía and were a gift from the Saudi king. The queen paired these jewels with the Flor de Lis tiara. Letizia also frequently wears diamond and ruby dove-shaped earrings, part of a set with a necklace and bracelet from Sofía’s collection, which were likely gifts from the Saudi crown prince in 1977.
Dynastic traditions
In 1985, King Hussein and Queen Noor of Jordan presented Sofía with a set of gold, turquoise, and diamond jewelry, which she wore at a state dinner in honor of her guests. Such gifts not only embellish royalty but also become part of dynastic history, passed down through generations and preserving the legacy of diplomatic ties between nations.
Queen Letizia, wife of King Felipe VI, is one of the most talked-about figures in modern Spain. Before marrying the heir to the throne, she worked as a journalist and television presenter. Today, Letizia is known for her impeccable style and her ability to blend tradition with contemporary trends. Her jewelry collection is considered one of the most fascinating among European royal families, and each of the queen’s public appearances draws keen interest from both the public and fashion experts.
