Gold enamelled brooch, presented to Florence Nightingale by Queen Victoria, 1855

Gold, with diamonds and enamel, said to have been designed by Prince Albert The Prince Consort (1819-1861), manufactured by R and S Garrard and Co, 1855.

Sometimes referred to as the 'Nightingale Jewel', this brooch, the design of which was supervised by Prince Albert, is engraved verso with a dedication from Queen Victoria, 'To Miss Florence Nightingale, as a mark of esteem and gratitude for her devotion towards the Queen's brave soldiers, from Victoria R. 1855'. The brooch was not intended to serve merely as a piece of jewellery, but rather, in the absence of a medal or established decoration suitable for presentation to such a female civilian, it stood as a badge of royal appreciation.