The Meaning Behind Meghan Markle’s Necklace in ‘As Ever’ Rebrand News

Meghan Markle wears her heart around her sleeve — or rather, her neck.

When announcing that she had renamed her American Riviera Orchard brand (as she first stated in March 2024) to “As Ever,” via Instagram on Monday, February 17, Markle, 43, donned a red necklace in the shape of a heart with a sweet sentiment behind it.

“‘As ever’ means ‘as it’s always been’ or some even say ‘in the same way as always,’” Markle said in the caption. The royal continued: “This new chapter is an extension of what has always been my love language, beautifully weaving together everything I cherish — food, gardening, entertaining, thoughtful living, and finding joy in the everyday.”

But the jewelry the Duchess wore also had a deeper meaning.

Her accouterment is from The Gold Album, which retails for $3,200. It was designed in partnership with the Duchess of Sussex’s longtime friend, Kelly McKee Zajfen, who is also a heart ambassador at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles.

According to the brand’s website, 15 percent of sales from the “Heart of Gold” pendant will be donated to treating patients at the hospital while helping to provide a “family-centered, child-friendly” environment.

Though the piece is fully customizable, Markle wore a version with the letters “G” and “L,” which lovingly seemed to pay tribute to Zajfen’s children: daughter Lily and her late son, George. Zajfen, who is the cofounder of the nonprofit Alliance of Moms, lost her son at 9 years old in 2022 after a sudden viral illness.

In October 2024, Markle joined her Zajfen at the Children’s Hospital Los Angeles 2024 Gala, where they posed for photos on the red carpet together.

At the time, the Duchess of Sussex recycled a red Carolina Herrera dress, but this time, she streamlined it by leaving the Watteau train at home. Meanwhile, Zajfen looked oh-la-lovely in a light purple gown with ruffle detail.

Consider the bespoke necklace the latest evidence of a chic and charitable friendship, indeed.