Queen Mary's Signature Brooch Takes Center Stage in Australian Tour
Queen Mary of Denmark has captivated royal watchers during her highly anticipated return to Australia, not with a tiara as many had hoped, but with her signature diamond brooch. The Australian-born monarch, who landed on home soil with King Frederik X on March 14, chose a striking gold leaf brooch worn in her hair at a formal state banquet in Canberra on Sunday, showcasing her distinctive style.
Understated Elegance Reflects Natural Surroundings
Since the royal couple kicked off their tour with a visit to Uluru in the Northern Territory, Mary's wardrobe has been praised for its understated and stylish approach, mirroring the natural beauty of Australia. During their visit to the Uluṟu-Kata Tjuta National Park Cultural Centre on Saturday, she wore a casual khaki shirt paired with cream shorts, blending seamlessly with the environment.
On Sunday, the majesties were officially received at Government House in Canberra, where Mary donned a green floral dress for a smoking ceremony. However, it was the evening's state banquet that drew the most attention, as all eyes were on Queen Mary, anticipating a tiara appearance.
The Brooch That Became a Signature
Instead of a crown, Mary dazzled in a one-shoulder grey flowing gown, accessorizing with her favourite brooch in her hair. This gold leaf piece, believed to be from Danish jeweller Ole Lynggaard, features diamonds within a design of gold leaves and has become a signature for Mary at formal state occasions. The brooch can be configured as a hair piece or worn on clothing, offering versatility in her royal attire.
Other items from Ole Lynggaard's Winter Frost collection, to which this brooch belongs, start at $8,056, with the most expensive piece being a pair of white gold and diamond encrusted earrings priced at $55,800. As noted by blogger The Royal Watcher, Mary has frequently worn this brooch over the years at formal events in place of a tiara, first appearing at the 70th birthday banquet of Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden in 2016.
Personal Significance and Royal Speeches
The trip holds deep personal meaning for both King Frederik and Queen Mary. Mary was born and raised in Hobart, Tasmania, where her father and two sisters still reside, and the tour is set to conclude there later this week. In a speech before dinner at the state banquet, King Frederik expressed that Australia feels like a second home to the couple.
"Whether we come here for a family visit or a state visit, we feel both excited and entirely at ease," Frederik said. He also reflected on their meeting during the 2000 Sydney Olympics at The Slip Inn, stating, "For me, Australia has held a very special place in my heart ever since I slipped into that bar and lost it in a conversation that has never ended."
Frederik praised Mary's courage in leaving her beloved home to build a new life with him in Denmark, expressing eternal gratitude. The couple continued their tour on Monday, meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and participating in a wreath-laying ceremony at the Australian War Memorial in Canberra.
Continuing the Australian Journey
On Tuesday, the royal couple flew to Victoria, where they will visit Port Melbourne and the Melbourne Cricket Ground, further engaging with Australian culture and communities. This visit marks Queen Mary's first official trip to Australia since her husband ascended the Danish throne following his mother's abdication in 2024, highlighting the enduring bond between the Danish monarchy and Australia.
