Mastery of Design: The Mercer Maiden Brooch

The Mercer Maiden Brooch
Crown Copyright
The Royal Collection
Image Courtesy of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

Made by Garrard & Co, this brooch of gold, enamel, diamonds and garnets was presented to Queen Mary by the Worshipful Company of Mercers in July 26, 1949 when Her Majesty was  admitted to the freedom of the Company at Mercers' hall.  Mercers are merchants, by the way.

The brooch depicts "The Mercers’ Maiden," the symbol and coat of arms of the Company. since 1425.   She's been around for almost six hundred years, but no one seems to remember who she is or why she's the symbol of the Mercers guild.

The oval gold brooch is set with an enamel and gold bust of the crowned maiden inset with diamond and rubies on a  ground of blue and red guilloché enamel. The scroll border is set with diamonds and rubies and the gold reverse is inscribed.

Crown Copyright
The Royal Collection