Jewel of the day: Kiki McDonough Blue Topaz and Diamond Drop Earrings

British jeweller Kiki McDonough is a favourite of Kate, Duchess of Cambridge. She has several pieces and I think she also favours blue topaz as a stone.

These earrings were recently worn on a solo visit she made to Luxembourg. They are cushion cut topazes with diamond halos set in 18k white gold. And unlike many of the pieces worn by royals, these can be yours if you have a spare £3,500. On the one hand, while I think it’s fine that Kate has her own style, it’s also a shame she hasn’t had more access to the royal jewel box. I know I’d want to be making best use of those pieces if allowed!

Jewel of the day: Kiki McDonough blue topaz and diamond earrings

British designer Kiki McDonough is a favourite of Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge. She has a pair of her topaz and diamond stud earrings and has been photographed several times, most recently at a function for the London 2012 Olympics) wearing these hoop earrings.

I’m a fan of the blog http://whatkatewore.com/, as they break down Kate’s various looks and, as it turns out, many come from affordable chain stores and designers. I really like that Kate recycles what she wears because it shows a sense of confidence and style to pair things with different outfits and always look polished. I’m sure if I had access to some of the jewels she can borrow, it would be tempting to go overboard, even at occasions which may warrant more. But she appears to stay true to the style she had before marrying William.

These earrings are not on McDonough’s web site, but many other blue topaz and diamond pieces are, and the prices are reasonable.

UK Press Association; What Kate Wore

Jewel of the day: Kiki McDonough white topaz and diamond earrings

Beloved by style icon Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge, this is a go-to pair offering simplicity and elegance. British designer Kiki McDonough works in gold, silver and semi-precious stones and her work has a pretty lightness to it. Sparkle at a decent price, these retail for £695.00 (metal content is not specified on the site).