Diamonds in the Royal Collection
Diamond-mounted works of art in the Royal Collection
Great George
RCIN 441144
This Garter badge was worn by George III for the Installation of the Knights of the Garter on St George's Day (23 April) 1805. According to a letter written by his daughter, Princess Augusta, the king had packed the jewels away the year previously and could not remember where he had stored them at the time of the ceremony – causing him great distress. The badge hasn't been worn many times, as later sovereigns preferred other, lighter badges.