Miss Universe has turned 75, and it has a crown to match.
The Miss Universe Organization has officially revealed “The Radiance of Eternal Legacy,” a diamond-studded crown that will be placed on the head of the Miss Universe 2026 winner. The reveal took place in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on November 12. The crown was designed by George Wittels in collaboration with Maison d’OR.
What makes this crown special?
The numbers are striking. The crown carries 3,150 diamonds set in 18-karat white gold. Those diamonds are a deliberate nod to the pageant’s “Diamond Edition” theme, since 75 years is the traditional diamond anniversary.
The crown is also built around the idea of legacy. After seven and a half decades of queens, the design looks back at the pageant’s history while still pointing forward.
A crown with big shoes to fill
Miss Universe crowns have often been major jewelry showpieces. Earlier ones include the Mouawad “Power of Unity” crown, valued at $5 million and set with 167 karats of diamonds. “Force for Good” was the second Mouawad crown and the 12th overall. More recently, the Philippines-made Jewelmer Lumière de l’Infini crown was worn by the 2025 titleholder. Each new crown becomes part of the pageant’s story, and the 75th anniversary piece is clearly meant to be a landmark.
When and where will it be worn?
The 75th competition is set for November 24, 2026, at the Coliseo de Puerto Rico José Miguel Agrelot in San Juan. Reigning Miss Universe Fátima Bosch Fernández of Mexico will crown her successor, and women from more than 100 countries are set to compete.
Not all sparkle: the backdrop to the finale
The build-up hasn’t been entirely smooth. Around 15 countries have reportedly withdrawn from the competition for various reasons. Some contestants have also stepped away citing personal circumstances, and there have been concerns about visa and travel restrictions affecting representation, particularly from Africa. A milestone year brings extra scrutiny, and fans will be watching how the organization handles it.
Final thoughts
A crown is more than metal and stones. For Miss Universe’s 75th year it stands for the pageant’s history and for the women who have worn it. Whoever wins on November 24 will take home 3,150 diamonds, and also the weight of 75 years of tradition.
Who do you think will wear it? Tell us in the comments.