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Princess Louise’s Commemorative Brooch will be going under the hammer at Fellows’ Fine Jewellery auction on Thursday 26th September.

On October 3rd, 1870, while on a walk near Balmoral, John Campbell proposed to Princess Louise by the scenic Dhu Loch. Known for her beauty and elegance, Louise was a favoured daughter of Queen Victoria, often considered one of the most beautiful princesses in Europe.

Their romantic engagement by the loch became a treasured memory for those close to the royal couple. Queen Victoria even gave gifts to those close to Louise. One such gift is a brooch offered in Fellows’ September Fine Jewellery auction. It is a Victorian gold granite and green enamel wreath brooch and bears the inscription: “DHU-LOCH 3rd October 1870 FROM VR” (Victoria Regina).

The inscription on the reverse refers to the date and location where the couple became engaged, Dhu Loch on 3rd Oct 1870. The granite used in the brooch is thought to refer to the Scottish home of the Royal Family, Balmoral. Not only does this brooch commemorate their engagement, but it also stands as a testament to both their love and Queen Victoria’s approval of the match.

Paul Greer, International Head of Jewellery, at Fellows said:

“An intriguing Victorian brooch will be in September’s Fine Jewellery auction. It is believed to have been given by Queen Victoria to commemorate the engagement of Princess Louise to John Campbell. This brooch is made from granite with a green enamel border and would be an amazing historical jewel to own.”

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