Kate Middleton, alongside Prince William, attended the Holocaust Memorial Day service in London, wearing a vintage pearl necklace that carried a poignant message of support and solidarity. The necklace, which was purchased from Susan Caplan’s eponymous vintage jewelry brand, has since become a symbol of sensitivity, style, and respect for the Jewish community.
Caplan, who founded her vintage jewelry brand in 2008, expressed her heartfelt reaction to Kate’s choice, especially given the significance of Holocaust Memorial Day. “The fact that she wore a necklace from our collection, being a Jewish brand, I was so touched by that,” Caplan tells PEOPLE. “To wear it on a day that holds such great meaning for me and the Jewish community felt incredibly special.”
The five-row graduated faux pearl necklace, valued at $291, was purchased directly from Caplan’s website. Known for its adjustable clasp, the piece can be worn higher or lower on the neckline and features sparkling Swarovski crystals, adding a touch of elegance. It’s one of many pieces Caplan bought a while ago from one of her regular suppliers, but when Kate wore it, Caplan immediately recognized it as one of her own designs.
“I switched on the TV just at the moment Kate was lighting the candle, and I was overwhelmed with emotion,” Caplan recalls. “It touched my soul that she chose this piece—it was a standout item that clearly caught attention.” The moment was all the more meaningful, given the solemnity of the occasion.
Kate Middleton’s style choices have always carried a sense of discretion and significance, reflecting the importance of the event she’s attending. Like the late Queen Elizabeth, Kate often selects colors and accessories that subtly pay tribute to the occasion, whether acknowledging the host country on a royal tour or marking a special event like Holocaust Memorial Day.
Caplan, whose clients include Beyoncé and Adele, notes Kate’s remarkable ability to use jewelry to convey an emotional connection to the occasion. “Jewelry carries an emotional attachment, and Catherine always gets it right,” Caplan says. “She is sensitive and thoughtful in her choices, and I think that’s why she is able to send just the right message with the right piece at the right time.”
This quality of sensitivity and grace reminds Caplan of William’s late mother, Princess Diana, who was known for combining elegance with kindness and a genuine concern for others. “To me, Kate is another Princess Diana,” Caplan adds. “She has so much style, just like Diana, and she is so natural, so gorgeous, and genuine. Her caring and loving nature are deep within her—it’s not something you can learn.”
Since Kate’s appearance at the Holocaust Memorial Day service, Caplan has seen a surge in interest for the necklace, with many customers emailing her non-stop to inquire about availability. “We only have a few more coming in,” Caplan shares. “They are currently being shipped to me, so they’re out of stock at the moment. We’ve had so many calls!”
For Caplan, this moment is one she will always treasure. “I do think Kate chose this because she wanted to support a Jewish brand at this particular time,” she says. “It’s clear they did their research, and I felt so honored that she would choose a Jewish brand for such an important occasion.”
Kate Middleton’s thoughtful jewelry choice at the Holocaust Memorial Day service has not only brought attention to a beautiful piece of vintage jewelry but also conveyed a powerful message of unity, support, and sensitivity during a momentous event.
