All About Royal Families

Last Thursday, I had the chance to visit the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and was utterly enchanted by the Cartier exhibition—an extraordinary journey through the storied evolution of this legendary jewellery house. Cartier at the V&A: A legacy in shine Running until 16 November 2025, this exhibition is the first major Cartier showcase in the UK in over three decades, presenting more than 350 pieces—from dazzling jewels and historic gemstones to decorative watches and clocks—tracing Cartier’s artistry from the early 20th century onward.  Curated by Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan, the show reveals how the founders—Louis, Pierre, and Jacques Cartier—crafted a brand defined by creativity, technical finesse, and global reach.  Royal treasures that took my breath away Two pieces, in particular, left me in awe: The Cartier Bandeau of Queen Elisabeth of the Belgians : This diamond-laden, leaf-motif bandeau-style tiara was originally designed in 1912. Queen Elisabe...

Last weekend, my husband and I had the pleasure of visiting Namur, the charming capital of Wallonia, located in the southern, French-speaking part of Belgium. Our journey led us to a true hidden gem for lovers of history and royalty. Currently, the Musée des Arts Décoratifs – Le TreM.a is hosting a lovely exhibition dedicated to Queen Louise d’Orléans, the very first Queen of the Belgians. This elegant and intimate exhibition runs from 21 March 2025 until 17 August 2025, offering a rare glimpse into the life of this remarkable 19th-century royal figure. Louise and Leopold Though small in size, the exhibition is beautifully curated and rich in detail. We had the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour (in French), which was both engaging and enlightening. It truly brought to life the personal story and royal journey of Queen Louise — from her French roots to her role alongside King Leopold I.  If you are in or near Namur this weekend, make sure not to miss the special activities on Satur...