State Visit Sparkle in Japan

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan hosted the first state visit of the new imperial era on Monday, welcoming the American President and First Lady to the Imperial Palace.

Carl Court – Pool/Getty Images

The imperial couple hosted the presidential couple to the Imperial Palace for an official welcoming ceremony on Monday.

NICOLAS DATICHE/AFP/Getty Images

The ceremony, held in a large palace courtyard, included the playing of both national anthems and a military presentation.

Carl Court – Pool/Getty Images

Masako wore ivory and classic pearls for the occasion, including a pair of button earrings with a golden border. She also wore a pearl ring on her right hand.

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

The Akishinos were also present for the welcoming ceremony. Crown Princess Kiko wore pearls with one of her silver ribbon brooches.

KAZUHIRO NOGI/AFP/Getty Images

On Monday evening, Naruhito and Masako held a state banquet at the palace in honor of their visitors.

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

No tiaras were worn for the black-tie dinner, but Masako brought out an impressive suite of gold, pearl, and diamond jewels. Particularly interesting was the gorgeous diamond necklace, set in gold, that she wore for the event.

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

Several other imperial ladies were also present for the event, all wearing subdued jewelry. Here you’ll note Crown Princess Kiko in blue with pearls, and Princess Mako in a golden lace gown with pearls.

BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP/Getty Images

Princess Kako also accessorized her yellow dress with pearls for the occasion.