Victorian Enamel & Diamond Cameo "Heavens Light Our Guide" Medal Brooch

$18,400.00

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Victorian Enamel & Diamond Cameo "Heavens Light Our Guide" Medal Brooch

$18,400.00

Description

DATE: Victorian, c.1870

This fantastic piece is the Badge of the Order of the Star of India. It was an order of chivalry founded by Queen Victoria in 1861, a few years after the British Crown took over the administration of India. The Order at first consisted of the sovereign, a Grand Master- this being the Viceroy of India, with 36 Knight Grand Commanders. These consisting of 18 British and 18 Indian, 85 Knights Commanders and 170 Companions (different tankings). This piece from my research is a Companion badge, and these were typically attached with a ribbon or with a gold bar for wear as a badge brooch.

This piece features a cameo centre of Queen Victoria herself, in high relief upon a red/brown background. Surrounding this, as bright blue enamel strip with applied lettering "Heavens Light Our Guide" set with glistening rose cut diamonds. Finishing the piece is a gold border, with gorgeous scrolled and bead work along the edges. The pieces are quite rare to come across, and its modelled in 15 karat yellow gold throughout.

STONES

Rose Cut Diamonds

MEASUREMENTS

4.8 x 4.3cm

WEIGHT

30g

MARKS

No marks present, tests as 15k gold

CONDITION

Very good antique condition