Yesterday (22nd April 2026), auction house Lyon and Turnbull sold this stunning gold and turquoise bracelet which had once been given as a gift from Queen Victoria to Lady Rachel Russell.
Described by the Queen as ‘a delightful child of 11 years old,’ Rachel was believed to be the product of an affair between Georgiana, Duchess of Bedford and the well known artist, Sir Edwin Landseer. The Duke – who is thought to have known of the affair – and Duchess of Bedford arrived at Buckingham Palace on 13th November 1837. Whilst I cannot be sure if Rachel arrived at the same time (although this is most likely) just two days later she preformed ‘a little Scotch song’ for Queen Victoria and members of her household. In her journal dated 15th November, Queen Victoria was characteristically harsh about the young girl’s appearance, writing, ‘I cannot say that she is a pretty child, but she is so natural, quiet, and pleasing, and has such a clever expression.’
Impressed by the performance, Victoria followed her lifelong custom of giving the child a souvenir to commemorate her visit to a palace. In this case, the souvenir was ‘a little bracelet,’ which dates from 1835. At the centre is a turquoise, whilst the band is decorated with two three-dimensional lizards, symbolising good fortune. After receiving the gift Rachel had the interior of the bracelet inscribed with the words “Given to me by her Majesty Queen Victoria, Nov. 15th 1837, R.E.R”.
With a reign of 63 years there is no doubt that many private gifts like this still survive in private collections, making it a privilege to see and learn about this beautiful piece of history.
© Queen.Victoria.Roses 2026
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