The New Zealand Silver-fern brooch is “set with brilliants and baguettes as a frond of silver tree fern.”1
It is one of the most recognisable national emblems of New Zealand, and it was given to Queen Elizabeth II in 1953 by the women of Auckland. This happened during her visit to New Zealand, which was also the first visit by any reigning monarch.
The gift was presented to Queen Elizabeth II by Lady Allum, the wife of the Mayor of Auckland. She also chaired the committee that raised the money to buy the brooch for the Queen and to pay for the reception. The money that was left was donated to the Westminster Abbey Restoration Fund.2
Queen Elizabeth wore it immediately in January 1954, shortly after it was presented and wore it many times after. Queen Elizabeth has also worn it combined with poppies.
In 2014, the brooch was worn by the then Duchess of Cambridge during her visit to New Zealand with her husband and son.
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