Meghan’s earrings: when diamonds aren't always a girl's best friend As controversy rages over the Duchess of Sussex’s choice of earrings, Hannah Betts says that gems often get their wearers into hot water 8 March 2021 • 1:29am Meghan has been criticised for wearing earrings that were a gift from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia Credit: Ian Vogler/Daily Mirror/PA Wire Why she wore it has been the subject of much controversy – but as a rule, royals are exceedingly careful about how they adorn themselves. Royal sparkle falls into two camps: things they have bought themselves, such as Kate Middleton wearing Accessorize earrings, which are allowed, and that belonging to the Crown. All jewellery gifted from one royal to another – such as the earrings from bin Salman – becomes official property of the Queen. It is believed that these were gifted to Meghan from the Saudi royal and chosen for her royal tour – but everyone knew where they came from, and it is understood she was warned against wearing them as their provenance might raise concerns.