Happy Birthday to Hisako, Princess Takamado of Japan, who turns 71 today! The accomplished widow of the Japanese Emperor’s cousin who is a storybook author and a good friend of many Foreign Royals. Princess Takamado has one of the largest jewellery collections among the Imperial Princesses, which includes this striking Diamond Bandeau Tiara!

A striking Diamond Laurel Wreath Bandeau, with two diamonds wings on either side, this Tiara is of an unknown provenance and while it may be an old Imperial Family Heirloom but is more likely a piece from Princess Takamado’s personal collection, acquired for her or inherited from her own family.

Princess Takamado has been seen wearing the Diamond Bandeau Tiara since the mid-1980s notably for an Official Portrait and also a few New Year’s Galas at the Imperial Palace.

Princess Takamado has often been photographed wearing the Diamond Bandeau Tiara at the annual Ceremony of New Year’s Celebration at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

Unlike other jewels in the Imperial Family, the Diamond Bandeau Tiara does not have a mirrored necklace and has usually been worn with her Diamond Cluster Necklace.

One of the more notable appearances of the Diamond Laurel Wreath Bandeau Tiara came in 2016, when Princess Takamado represented Japan at King Carl XVI Gustaf’s 70th Birthday Banquet in Tokyo. There is no doubt it will continue to be worn for years to come!

Princess Takamado’s Wedding Tiara

Diamond Bandeau Tiara

Mikasa Tiara

Diamond Necklace Tiara

Diamond Necklace

Meiji Scroll Tiara