During Christmas 1855 Britain, France and Turkey were engaged in a war with Russia on the Crimean peninsula. This brooch celebrates the allied powers of Britain and France, their respective flags set with rubies, sapphires and diamonds, and Turkey, with its crescent emblem set with emeralds. Only Christmas Eve in 1855 was free of the business of war for the queen; on both Christmas Day and Boxing Day she received military officials consulting and informing her about the progress of the conflict.

…we went into the next room where there was another tree & Albert's & my present tables had been put. Received many fine gifts…

Queen Victoria’s Journal, 24 December 1855

From Prince Albert to Queen Victoria, Christmas 1855