On Christmas Day 2023, Queen Camilla debuted a striking and unusual brooch, which Buckingham Palace identified as the Raspberry Pip Brooch. Its intricate design and unique name immediately sparked curiosity among royal watchers, who were eager to uncover its origins and significance.
The King and Queen lead Royals at the Christmas Day church service in Sandringham
According to British Royal Jewels, the brooch can be traced back to 1881, when it was presented as a wedding gift to Cecilia Nina Bowes-Lyon, Countess of Strathmore and Kinghorne. A noted collector of fine jewellery, the Countess treasured the piece, which later gained prominence through its connection to her descendants.
Newspaper clippings from the time of the Countess’ indicate that she specifically bequeathed “my yellow diamond cross” to her daughter, Queen Elizabeth (later known as the Queen Mother). This carefully designated inheritance highlights the sentimental and familial value of the brooch.
The brooch subsequently became part of the Queen Mother’s personal collection and was eventually passed down to her granddaughter, Elizabeth II, as part of the family tradition of preserving heirloom jewellery within the Royal Family.
While the Raspberry Pip Brooch bears striking similarities to a piece worn by Queen Elizabeth II in 2003 to a church service, there are notable differences. Elizabeth II’s brooch, though similar in shape, is slightly larger and features blue stones rather than yellow diamonds. Additionally, there are subtle variations in the diamond sprays between the cross elements of the two brooches, suggesting they may be related pieces from the same collection or designed with a shared inspiration.
The choice of the brooch’s name — Raspberry Pip — is intriguing and may have been inspired by its shape, which some observers liken to the delicate structure of a raspberry seed. Alternatively, the name could be a modern reinterpretation or nickname for the piece, emphasising its charm and distinctiveness.
The Raspberry Pip Brooch is more than just a piece of jewellery; it is a testament to the rich history and traditions of the Royal Family. With roots tracing back to the 19th century and connections to some of the most prominent figures in royal history, the brooch carries a weight of historical and sentimental value. Its recent appearance ensures that its legacy will continue to captivate and intrigue for generations to come.
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The Brooch also serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of Queen Camilla’s predecessors, particularly the Queen Mother and Elizabeth II. By showcasing such an heirloom, Camilla bridges the generations, tying her own chapter to those of the women who came before her.
