Jewel decorated with a red cross and three stars given by Queen Victoria to Florence Nightingale for her work in Crimea. Colour lithograph, 1856.

[London] (13 & 14 Pall Mall East) : Paul & Dominic Colnaghi, 14 February 1856.

1 print : lithograph ; image 8.9 x 7.6 cm

To Miss Florence Nightingale ... the jewel was manufactured by Messrs. Garrard the Crown jeweller ... Motto around the perimeter: Crimea. Blessed are the merciful.

Wellcome Collection 571713i

After: a brooch in the National Army Museum, Chelsea (no. NAM. 1963-10-280-1) "Sometimes referred to as the 'Nightingale Jewel', this brooch, the design of which was supervised by Prince Albert, is engraved verso with a dedication from Queen Victoria, 'To Miss Florence Nightingale, as a mark of esteem and gratitude for her devotion towards the Queen's brave soldiers, from Victoria R. 1855'. The brooch was not intended to serve merely as a piece of jewellery, but rather, in the absence of a medal or established decoration suitable for presentation to such a female civilian, it stood as a badge of royal appreciation." (National Army Museum online catalogue)