A Royal Sparkler: Queen Maxima's Stunning Jewels in Paramaribo
A dazzling display of royal gems! This week, we're witnessing not one but two state visits filled with bejeweled elegance. While the German state visit to Britain is set to begin on Wednesday, the Dutch royal couple, King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima, have already embarked on their journey to Suriname, a former Dutch colony with a rich shared history. And let me tell you, Queen Máxima's jewelry choices are simply breathtaking.
On Monday, the royal couple arrived at the Presidential Palace in Paramaribo, where they were warmly welcomed by President Jennifer Geerlings-Simons and her husband, Glenn. The day was filled with meaningful moments, including a wreath-laying ceremony at the statue of Mama Sranan, a symbol of 'Mother Suriname,' unveiled by Queen Juliana herself in 1965. But here's where it gets controversial... the royals' attire and jewelry choices reflect the complex history and cultural nuances of these two nations.
Suriname's proximity to the equator meant the royals opted for a warm-weather look, even in December. Queen Máxima's first outfit choice was a refreshing white dress with a modern eyelet design, a perfect summery ensemble. She paired it with a straw hat and some exquisite diamond and pearl jewelry, including a unique brooch and a stunning ring. The pearl and diamond earrings, a masterpiece from Steltman, were a standout piece, offering versatility with their adjustable length.
And this is the part most people miss... Máxima pinned a true treasure from the Dutch royal vaults to her waist - a double cluster brooch with a pearl drop, a family heirloom dating back to the 19th century. The brooch added a touch of elegance and history to her look.
But wait, there's more! She also donned an eight-row pearl bracelet with a dazzling diamond and ruby clasp, and a modern diamond and pearl ring. These jewels, a familiar sight to royal jewelry enthusiasts, were previously seen during her visit to France. However, on that occasion, she opted for a different earring setting and left the brooch's pearl pendant behind.
The day's itinerary included visits to the National Assembly and the Court of Justice, and a heartfelt meeting with representatives from indigenous communities and descendants of enslaved peoples. A discussion about the past and future, indeed.
In the afternoon, Queen Máxima switched to a vibrant red and berry ensemble, complete with a draped neckline dress and a stylish hat. Her jewelry choices for this look included the Mellerio Ruby Parure earrings, a ruby and diamond bangle, and a diamond and opal leaf brooch, adding a touch of nature-inspired elegance.
As the day turned to evening, the royal couple attended a state banquet hosted by President Geerlings-Simons. While it wasn't a white-tie affair, Queen Máxima's choice of an orange gown with a plunging neckline and a dazzling array of royal diamonds was nothing short of spectacular. The classic Dutch Diamond Bandeau, originally a necklace given to Queen Emma as a wedding gift in 1879, transformed into a tiara during Queen Wilhelmina's reign, was the highlight. This stunning tiara boasts over a hundred carats of diamonds!
But the diamonds didn't stop there! Queen Máxima also wore diamond earrings belonging to Queen Wilhelmina and diamond bracelets on both wrists. On her right wrist, she sported the family's diamond trellis bracelet, while on her left, she added a Dutch East Indies bracelet. And on her right hand, she wore a ring crafted from the original Dutch East Indies Bracelet.
A truly regal display of jewelry and a fascinating insight into the history and culture of these nations. What do you think of Queen Máxima's jewelry choices? Do you find her style inspiring? Feel free to share your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!
