The Court Jeweller

Sparkling Royal Jewels From Around the World

Jewels in Motion: Queen Maxima’s Inauguration Jewels

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Four years ago today, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands became the nation’s king when his mother, Princess Beatrix, abdicated in his favor. At his inauguration ceremony, the new Queen Maxima was a magpie’s dream in diamonds and sapphires. You can read all about the history of her jewels in our previous post, but today, I think it’s time to enjoy them glittering in motion!

Arriving in the family’s magnificent diamond and sapphire tiara

Processional at the Nieuwe Kerk

Processional at the Nieuwe Kerk

Singing the Dutch national anthem

Applauding King Willem-Alexander’s remarks

An emotional moment during the inauguration ceremony

Three cheers for the new king!

Maxima Sparkles for Willem-Alexander’s 50th Birthday

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REMKO DE WAAL/AFP/Getty Images

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands celebrated his 50th birthday on Friday evening with a special birthday party in Amsterdam. One hundred fifty Dutch citizens who are also 50 years old were invited to a dinner at the Royal Palace.

REMKO DE WAAL/AFP/Getty Images

Maxima wore glittering diamonds for the occasion, including a pair of dramatic earrings and both of the East Indies bracelets.

Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Images

Here’s a better look at the earrings, which are fringed in a sort of checkerboard pattern.

Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Images

This close-up shows the curve at the top of the earrings, as well as the movement of the individual fringes.

REMKO DE WAAL/AFP/Getty Images

She also wore two of the family’s diamond ears of wheat ornaments as slides in her hair.

Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Images

Here’s a better look at the ears of wheat.

REMKO DE WAAL/AFP/Getty Images

The always-exuberant Max was unfortunately caught mid-expression here (sorry, Your Maj!), but this photo is one of the best views I have to share of her unusual dress.

Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Images

The gown was made by Jan Taminiau, who has made numerous dresses for Maxima, including her stunning royal blue inauguration gown from 2013. The heavy embroidery here was inspired by wallpaper that hangs in the Palace of Huis ten Bosch.

Patrick van Katwijk/Getty Images

Maxima wore the dress with a vivid violet-colored wrap, which you can see in the photo above; I really like the color contrast of the shades of purple.