A unique necklace has been created by Garrard to support the fundraising activities of the British Red Cross, which was auctioned at their Royal Charity Gala Evening on 12th June 2008.Garrard, the Royal Jeweller has a long history of creating unique pieces, dating back to 1735 when they took their first Royal commission. A long association with Royalty has continued over the centuries, and to this day they continue to create bespoke pieces for international Royalty and heads of state.
The Red Cross and Garrard have had links for more than a century. Florence Nightingale whose courageous pioneering work, caring for the sick and wounded soldiers in the Crimean War, was to inspire the foundation of the Red Cross movement in later years. An important brooch made by Garrard was presented by Queen Victoria to Florence Nightingale in 1855 in recognition of her inspirational work. Garrard also produced the badge of the “Royal Red Cross” decoration which was awarded to nurses for honourable service.
The exclusive necklace that was auctioned on 12th June 2008 has been created especially for the charity gala evening. Inspired by the original Nightingale brooch and Garrard’s association with the Red Cross, it has been carefully designed and crafted in the Garrard workshops using the finest of gemstones. The earlier Nightingale piece has three stars above an oval shield, with foliate forms at the sides; these aspects are highlighted here in the new design, which also incorporates the modern Garrard “regal” scrolls. At the centre of the pendant is the iconic cross of the charity set in rubies, with diamonds in the surrounding decoration. The words Faith, Hope and Charity are included on the back of the new necklace; sentiments from the reverse side of the “R.R.C.” decoration.
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