Princess of Wales Dons Royal Rubies and Diamonds on Armistice Day

The Princess of Wales, Catherine, attended the annual Armistice Day Service of Remembrance at the National Memorial Arboretum on November 11, 2025. This event took place in Alrewas, Staffordshire, where she honored the sacrifices of military personnel and civilians.

Royal Representation on Armistice Day

Princess Catherine acted as the royal representative during this significant occasion. The National Memorial Arboretum, opened in 2001, serves as a national site of remembrance. It features numerous memorials honoring those who served their country.

The Armed Forces Memorial

At the arboretum’s center lies the Armed Forces Memorial, dedicated to the thousands who have died in service since World War II. It is uniquely designed so that every year, at the exact 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, sunlight illuminates a bronze wreath at its center. During the ceremony, the Princess laid a wreath featuring the Prince of Wales feathers design.

Poetic Tribute

As part of the service, Princess Catherine read a poem titled “A Sonnet For Us All,” written by Arji Manuelpillai, the arboretum’s poet-in-residence. The poem was commissioned by the Princess specifically for this event.

Key lines from the poem focus on love, sacrifice, and the personal stories behind the experience of war:

• It emphasizes the importance of perspective in discussing the nation.
• The poem reflects on the unseen scars of those affected by conflict.
• It encourages a deep sense of connection and duty towards each other.

Attire and Accessories

For the ceremony, Princess Catherine donned a black coat with military-inspired detailing, complemented by black accessories and paper poppies. The red poppies were tied to her jewelry choice, which included stunning ruby and diamond drop earrings.

These diamond and ruby earrings have appeared previously at military events, including a ceremony for the 80th anniversary of VE Day in May 2025.

Connection to the Irish Guards

On this day, the Princess secured her poppies with a brooch resembling the regimental badge of the Irish Guards. In December 2022, she was appointed the regimental colonel of the Irish Guards, a position held by the King as Colonel-in-Chief.

Princess Catherine’s participation in the Armistice Day service reflected her commitment to honoring those who have sacrificed for their country, highlighting themes of remembrance and compassion.