Duchess Winifred's Natural Pearls and Diamonds Brooch

Pearls and Diamonds Brooch of Duchess of Portland. Photo courtesy: Christie's

Stunning Brooch of Duchess of Portland, Winifred is composed of three Natural, saltwater Pearls and old-cut Diamond clusters. Pearls weigh 118.33 grains, 106.98 grains and 100.92 grains respectively. Each Diamond cluster suspends a natural drop-shaped Pearl with rose-cut Diamond cap. The central Pearl has an old-cut Diamond surmount and is detachable from the body of the brooch. The whole structure is made up of Silver and Gold.

This brooch was one of Duchess Winifred's favourites as she frequently chose to be portrayed wearing it. Her full length portrait by Sargent (1902) shows the pearls prominently displayed on her 17th century style 'Van Dyke' costume and again they are seen in both the 1897 photograph of the Devonshire House ball as well as in the photograph of the Duchess in coronation robes. This piece of royal jewelry was auctioned for a huge amount of $2.41 million a while back. 

Pearls were surely on the top of the list of gems in the royal gentry, isn't it? Share your comments and reactions below.

Winifred, Duchess of Portland painted by John Singer Sargent in 1902 wearing the Diamonds and Pearls Brooch. Photo courtesy: Telegraph