Masterpiece of the Week: The Star of the Order of the Star of India, 1861

Star of the Order of the Star of India
R. & S. Garrard & Co., 1861
Gold, White Diamonds, Yellow Diamonds, Enamel, Silver
The Royal Collection

In 1861, The Royal Jewelers at R. & S. Garrard and Co. took gold, white diamonds, yellow diamonds, silver and enamel and created this magnificent star for Queen Victoria for the first investiture of the Order of the Star of India on November 21, 1861.


After the Indian Rebellion of 1858, Westminster assumed responsibility for the government of India. Victoria found it imperative to restore order and chivalry to the nation and sought for ways to encourage a good relationship between the Crown and the people of India. The Order of the Star of India was a suggestion of Prince Albert who set about designing this glorious star pin.