Tiara and diadem are both ornamental headdresses traditionally worn by royalty or nobility, mainly by women as a symbol of sovereignty. They both refer to a jeweled crown or headband and are often used interchangeably in the fashion world.
Key Takeaways
- Both tiara and diadem are jeweled crowns or headbands worn by royal or noble women.
- In today’s fashion world, there is no significant difference between a tiara and a diadem, and the terms can be used interchangeably.
- Traditionally, tiaras were worn by queens, empresses, princesses, and duchesses, while diadems originated from headbands worn by ancient Romans and Greeks.
What is a Tiara?
A tiara is a jeweled crown, usually a circular or semi-circular band adorned with precious metal and gems, worn by women around their head or on the forehead as a circlet. Traditionally, it was worn by women of royal families and high noble families, but later became popular among wealthy socialites.
There are many traditions regarding tiaras, such as being worn by married royal ladies and typically being reserved for evening affairs or formal occasions. The British royal family is known for having the largest tiara collection in the world.
What is a Diadem?
A diadem is a jeweled crown or headband worn as a sign of sovereignty, originating from a headband worn by ancient Romans and Greeks. Over time, it has become more decorative, and some even consider all other royal head ornaments, including crowns, tiaras, and coronets, to be subcategories of diadems.
What is the Difference Between Tiara and Diadem?
Although tiara and diadem both refer to jeweled crowns or headbands, there is no significant difference between the two in today’s fashion world, and they can be used interchangeably.
Summary – Tiara vs Diadem
Both tiara and diadem refer to jeweled crowns or headbands worn by royal or noble women, and there is no significant difference between the two. These terms can be used interchangeably in today’s fashion world.