Order of the Bath star. Eight-pointed diamond set silver star with flaming rays overlaid with eight-pointed cross of yellow diamonds in gold; the centre has three gold crowns on diamonds, encircled by motto TRIA JUNCTA IN UNO of diamonds on red enamel, surrounded by emerald, ruby and gold laurel wreath, ICH DIEN in diamonds below.

Queen Victoria's Bath star was supplied by Rundells in September 1838, along with her Garter star. Both were made with stones from a star of the Guelphic Order, which had been founded during the Regency in the name of George III as King of Hanover. Because Queen Victoria did not inherit the crown of Hanover (Salic Law having prevented a female succession), she had no need for insignia of the Guelphic Order. The Guelphic star provided 373 brilliants, 42 yellow brilliants, 200 roses, 90 emeralds and 30 rubies, of which 252 brilliants were employed for the Garter star and 309 for the Bath star. In addition to the brilliants, 114 rose-cut diamonds, 31 yellow brilliants, 50 emeralds and 9 rubies were used in the Bath star. Ensuite with the Garter and Bath stars, the Queen was supplied with the stars of the Orders of the Thistle and St Patrick, presumably at the same time, but no invoices to confirm exact delivery survive. These stars, all of reduced size to a standard star of the time, formed the pattern for the Queen’s subsequent purchases of insignia including the Star of the Order of the Star of India designed by the Prince Consort.

Engraved on the reverse: RUNDELL BRIDGE & Cº. Goldsmiths & Jewellers to HER MAJESTY and all the Royal Family

Text adapted from Victoria & Albert: Art & Love, London, 2010