Gibraltar Brooch presented to Lady Mary Monro
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In 1919, Lady Mary was named Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire, an honor established by King George V just two years prior, to recognize the contributions of women. This distinction is the second highest honor a woman can receive in the UK. Lady Mary was awarded this prestigious title in recognition of her exceptional work in education and her dedication to the welfare of children in England. Her father, Thomas O'Hagan, 1st Baron O'Hagan, was the Lord Chancellor of Northern Ireland from 1868 to 1874.
Lady Mary Monro spent between 1923-1928 in Gibraltar as the Governor's wife whom she wed in 1915. She was a dedicated supporter of service-related charities. From 1952 to 1957, she served as president of the Not Forgotten Association, a charity established in 1920 to provide comfort, cheer and entertainment to wounded ex-servicemen hospitalized after the Great War. Additionally, she was a patron of Lady Grover's Hospital Fund for Officers' Families. Both esteemed charities continue their valuable work to this day.
This exquisite brooch was crafted by Alexander Clark & Co., a distinguished jewelry firm established in 1890 and favored by the Royal Couple. It is conceivable that Queen Mary, along with her advisors in both London and Gibraltar, first conceptualized this elegant brooch. Traditionally, it is customary for the wife of a statesman to receive such a gift from the Crown or Country upon the conclusion of their service.
The brooch contains 67 round Swiss cut white pavé set diamonds totaling approximately 1.10 carats, 17 step cut sapphires totaling an estimated 1.70 carats and 12 step cut rubies totaling approximately 0.60 carat. Set in platinum.
Accompanied by its original box inscribed, “Presented to The Honorable Lady Monro as a token of the deep affection in which she is held and as a souvenir of her stay in Gibraltar during the years 1923-1928. From her many friends.”
Circa 1929
2" wide x 1 1/8" high