Norway Gala: Queen Sonja & Princess Astrid’s Tiaras & Turquoise Jewels

Oslo, Norway – February 14, 2026 – As Princess Astrid of Norway celebrates her 94th birthday, a recent gala dinner hosted by King Harald V and Queen Sonja at the Royal Palace in Oslo offers a glimpse into the enduring elegance and historical significance of the Norwegian royal jewelry collection. The event, held on January 29, 2026, for members of the diplomatic corps, showcased not only Queen Sonja’s refined taste but also the continued presence of Princess Astrid as a vital figure in royal engagements.

Queen Sonja opted for a striking purple tulle evening gown by Elie Saab, a piece she previously wore to a French gala banquet in June 2025. However, it was her choice of jewelry that drew particular attention. Departing from diamonds, she selected a dazzling ensemble of diamond and pearl pieces from the family collection, most notably the full setting of Queen Maud’s Pearl Tiara. This was complemented by matching diamond and pearl earrings, a five-row pearl necklace, a three-row pearl bracelet, and a pearl ring. A special heirloom, the Drapers’ Company Brooch – a wedding gift to Queen Maud in 1896 – secured the sash of the Order of St. Olav, adding a layer of historical resonance to the ensemble.

The gala also highlighted the continued support Princess Astrid provides to her brother, King Harald V. At 94, her resilience and dedication to royal duties remain remarkable. For the occasion, Princess Astrid chose a starry evening gown paired with a diamond and turquoise tiara that originally belonged to Queen Alexandra of the United Kingdom, and was later associated with Queen Maud of Norway. She also wore the matching diamond and turquoise necklace and earrings.

The tiara’s history is particularly noteworthy. It’s a piece that has traversed royal families and generations. Intriguingly, Princess Astrid also wore a devant de corsage, pinned as a brooch on her order sash. According to Trond Norén Isaksen’s research, this piece also has British origins, potentially originating with Queen Mary, though a correction was issued by Isaksen clarifying an earlier attribution in his book. The design bears similarities to brooches once worn by Queen Elizabeth II, specifically Queen Mary’s Richmond Brooch and a diamond and turquoise brooch gifted to Queen Mary by King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, both dating back to 1893.

The choice of jewelry at this gala dinner wasn’t merely a display of opulence; it was a carefully curated narrative of royal history and familial connections. Queen Sonja’s selection of Queen Maud’s Pearl Tiara and the Drapers’ Company Brooch underscored the continuity of the Norwegian royal lineage and its ties to the British royal family. Similarly, Princess Astrid’s choice of the turquoise tiara and devant de corsage reinforced these historical links, showcasing pieces that have been cherished and passed down through generations.

The event took place against a backdrop of evolving dynamics within the Norwegian royal family. With Crown Princess Mette-Marit stepping back due to health concerns and recent controversies, the presence of Princess Astrid at such a significant diplomatic event underscores her continued importance in representing the monarchy. Her steadfast support of her brother, King Harald V, and her willingness to participate in official duties demonstrate a commitment to tradition and stability during a period of transition.

The gala dinner, served as more than just a diplomatic occasion. It was a visual representation of the Norwegian royal family’s history, resilience, and enduring connection to its past. The carefully chosen jewels, worn by both Queen Sonja and Princess Astrid, spoke volumes about the enduring legacy of the monarchy and its commitment to maintaining its traditions while navigating the challenges of the modern era. The event offered a poignant reminder of the power of royal symbolism and the importance of preserving these historical treasures for future generations.