Spain

The unexpected returned of King Juan Carlos I to Spain captured headlines but the former monarch had another focus. Juan Carlos had come back to join a 60th birthday party for his eldest child, Infanta Elena, and as he left, the two shared a special gesture that has clearly united them over the years. Elena accompanied her father to his car as her celebrations came to an end and said farewell…

The only ruby tiara in the Spanish Royal Family’s collection is the Niarchos Ruby Bandeau and its accompanying parure. Princess Sophia of Greece and Denmark received a treasure trove of jewels on her wedding day in 1962. In addition to the Prussian Tiara, a gift from her parents (King Paul and Queen Frederica of Greece); the Mellerio Shell Tiara, a gift from her in-laws (Infante Juan and…

Each family has its own Christmas tradition, and royal families are no exception. The Spanish Royal Family starts Christmas festivities by releasing their Christmas cards early in December. They share the chards that they will be sending out to those who send them holiday greetings over the festive period. The Christmas card sent by King Felipe and Queen Letizia in 2022 (© Casa de SM el…

While the Spanish Royal Family has many impressive tiaras held in their family, the Mellerio Shell Tiara certainly has to be the most interesting. Queen Isabella II of Spain purchased this tiara from the French jeweller Mellerio dits Meller in 1868 to give to her daughter, Infanta Isabella, as a wedding gift. This unique tiara was designed by the Belgian-born, French designer…