Just a little fun, whimsy, and history about some of the world's most famous and most beautiful jewels.

Friday, December 23, 2011

The Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara (England)


Made by Garrard in 1883 and purchased by Lady Eve Greville from funds raised by the "girls of Great Britain and Ireland."  The tiara was given to Princess Mary of Teck (also known as "May") on the occasion of her wedding to Prince George, the son of King Edward VII.

The original had pearl finials which Queen Mary replaced with diamonds.  Mary also removed the lozenge-pattern bandeau from the base of the tiara enabling the base to be worn as as a headband.

In 1947, both the band and the tiara were given to Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II) as wedding presents.  In 1969, Queen Elizabeth had the bandeau and the tiara reattached.

Princess Mary in the tiara with the original pearl finials.

The tiara with the lozenge-pattern bandeau removed.

Queen Mary and later, Princess Elizabeth, wearing the Girls of Great Britain and Ireland Tiara without the lozenge-pattern bandeau.

Queen Elizabeth wearing the tiara in its current form.

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