The heartbreaking meaning behind Kate Middleton's stunning golden bee earrings

Kate Middleton's bee earrings were a stunning tribute worn by the Duchess of Cambridge as she paid her respects to the victims of the May 2017 terrorist attack at Manchester Arena during an Ariana Grande concert.

• The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge visited the Glade of Light Memorial on May 10, 2022.
• The Duchess wore a stunning pair of earrings that have an important yet heartbreaking story behind them.
• In other royal news, Sophie Wessex and Prince Edward showcase little-known skill at latest engagement as fans beg for ‘more of this couple.’

During royal engagements, eyes are typically on Kate Middleton’s dresses as the Duchess is known for her impeccable wardrobe, but today as Catherine and Prince William stepped out in Manchester, many fans were focused on Kate Middleton's bee earrings. 

Showing her attention to detail, the Duchess wore a pair of delicate golden hoops that a small golden bee and some golden honeycomb dangled from. While some merely saw this as a stunning pair of earrings, the real meaning behind this accessory is even more thoughtful.

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Lucky Bee Huggie Hoop in Gold, £45 (opens in new tab) ($55) | Olivia Burton

These classic gold-plated sterling silver Huggie hoops are decorated with a delicate bee charm.

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The Duke and Duchess were in Manchester to commemorate the number of people who were killed when a terrorist attack took place during a concert at Manchester Arena. Following this attack, the image of a bee became a symbol of support and an emblem of hope for the survivors of this horrific attack.

The bee has always been closely associated with Manchester and has roots as far back as the Victorian era. When the 2017 terrorist attack took place, the bee became a way for people across the world to show their support for Manchester, and many people even received bee tattoos as a message of anti-terrorism. 

This subtle tribute from Kate showed her attention to detail and her commitment to commemorating the lives that were lost in 2017.

This event in Manchester was a key reason why Kate Middleton didn't join Prince William at the Queen's Speech earlier in the day. The Queen was unable to make the speech herself so Prince Charles stepped in, with Prince William and Duchess Camilla Parker Bowles also in attendance for support. 

Despite this busy morning schedule, the Duke of Cambridge was still able to make it to Manchester for this afternoon to pay tribute to the victims of the Manchester terror attacks.