Grey pearls she hated

Diana adored pearls, but this grey-toned necklace, made by London jeweller Leo de Vroomen, was a world away from the classic choker style she favoured.

The unusual necklace, made from large dark grey and natural pearls, appeared in public only twice: on a trip to austria in april 1986 and a month later when she visited a school in Japan. Both times Diana paired it with this monochrome dress.

Charles is thought to have given it to his wife in 1985 — the year royal insiders say their marriage began falling apart.

The look on Diana’s face appears to say it all.