The popularity of the brooches was matched by Queen Victoria's passion. She frequently visited her beloved castle Balmoral, her children and herself in tartans. Several portraits show her in the native garb adorned with Scottish jewelry. While most Scottish jewelry is traditional in form, each is quite different as the colors of the agates are always distinctive. They are individually chosen for color, cut and set by a lapidary. It is this hand work and artistry that differentiates the jewelry.

In this example, the colors blend softly and the cairngorms retain center stage. The overall composition is elegant and distinctively Scottish. The reverse has additional charm....engraved is "From John Stewart to his Mother, 1864." The brooch measures 2 3/4 long x 2 1/2 inches across. It is in excellent condition,and retains the original C-clasp and T-bar. The tiny loop on the reverse would be for a safety chain, if desired. The condition is excellent and the sentiment timeless. Scotland, 1864.