Kate Middleton’s necklace is actually a tribute to Princess Diana

And it’s lovely.

As a royal, it’s safe to say Kate Middleton has the very best jewels at her disposal – from her 12-carat blue sapphire and solitaire diamond engagement ring to countless family tiaras.

However, one of the Duchess of Cambridge’s most precious pieces is a necklace from her sister Pippa Middleton, proving that sentimentality holds the most value.

Pippa gave Kate the meaningful present in 2013 to mark the birth of Prince George, with the simple gold necklace featuring a gold-plated disc with George’s full name engraved.

The necklace, which came from Merci Maman, also features a small gold heart-shaped charm engraved with the letter 'W', standing for 'William', as well as a little boy charm to symbolise her newborn.

While people were quick to praise the sentimental gift, few knew how special it really was, with the necklace also serving as a tribute to William’s mother, Princess Diana, who died in 1997.

It turns out that Princess Diana was given a similar necklace by Prince Charles following the birth of Prince William, and Diana was often seen wearing the gold disc engraved with his name.

‘Upon the birth of Prince William in 1982, Prince Charles gave Diana the gift of a gold pendant engraved their new son’s name, which she always wore close to her heart,’ Merci Maman wrote in a blog post.

It continued: ‘In 2013, Pippa Middleton continued this family tradition by giving her sister Kate, The Duchess of Cambridge, our Personalised Duchess Necklace to celebrate the birth of Prince George.’