In a deeply personal and surprising revelation, Princess Anne, now 75, has unveiled one of the late Queen Elizabeth II’s most closely guarded secrets—a private decree and a priceless heirloom meant solely for Catherine, Princess of Wales. The news has stunned royal watchers and insiders alike, particularly as Camilla, Queen Consort, was reportedly unaware of the Queen’s plans.
At a time when King Charles continues his battle with cancer, Princess Anne has remained one of the most active and steadfast members of the royal family. Her latest revelation has stirred intense public interest, not only because of the symbolic value of the heirloom involved, but also due to what it suggests about the Queen’s long-term vision for the monarchy’s future.
The item at the heart of the story is a breathtaking 23.6-carat pink diamond necklace—once set into a brooch by Cartier and rarely worn except on the most important occasions. Originally discovered in Tanzania and gifted to Queen Elizabeth by Canadian geologist Dr. John Thoburn Williamson in 1947, the pink diamond remained part of the Queen’s private collection for decades. Now, according to Princess Anne, it will be passed on to Catherine as a symbol of trust and transition.
More than a stunning piece of jewelry, the necklace represents a legacy—and a private royal decree by Queen Elizabeth. Anne disclosed that her mother had confided in her about a plan to empower Catherine in a way no royal consort has been before. “It was a message of trust,” Anne explained, “and it gave Catherine the power to help shape the monarchy’s future in a way that blends tradition with modern values.”
While the news was celebrated by many who admire the Princess of Wales for her grace and resilience, it has reportedly caused some tension within royal circles. Queen Camilla, once thought to be the Queen’s closest confidante, was said to be left out of this particular decision, leading to speculation about shifting dynamics within the royal family. The move makes clear that Queen Elizabeth viewed Catherine not just as a royal wife, but as a future leader.
In 2025, King Charles publicly affirmed this vision by formally expanding Catherine’s role within the family. He granted her the authority to issue royal warrants—a power traditionally held by the sovereign—cementing her growing influence. With Anne’s revelation and the passing of the pink diamond necklace, it is now clear that Queen Elizabeth’s foresight continues to shape the royal family even after her death. Catherine’s role is not only ceremonial—it’s transformational.
