Known as "Miechen", Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna was considered to be the third most powerful woman in the Russian Empire. She loved the grandeur and society, an accomplished woman according to the needs of the court. During her time, she has acquired a stunning amount of jewelry.
This particular tiara has caught my eye. Made by Cartier for her in 1908, the central stone is the Beauharnais Ruby which once belonged to Empress Josephine and weighed 5.22 carats. As with many of her jewels, they were smuggled out of Russia in a diplomatic bag when the empire fell apart. Upon her death, her jewels were divided upon her children. The tiara was eventually sold to Nancy Leeds, who herself became Anastasia of Greece
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| Ruby and Diamond Brooch |
The Grand Duchess was considered the "grandest of the grand duchesses" and was one of the most prominent hostesses in St. Petersburg. A lady of her standing certainly deserves the grandeur of her jewels. She was the original owner of the Vladimir Tiara who's current owner is Queen Elizabeth II. Why, the magpie in me is certainly fluttering with delight :)
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