It wasn't just Christmas trees that Queen Victoria introduced to Great Britain – she also gave rise to this charity jewel commemorating her Golden Jubilee.
Masonic charity received a 6,000 Guinea boost following a celebration hosted by the Queen's eldest son, Grand Master Albert Edward (later King Edward VII) at the Royal Albert Hall in 1887, and all subscribing Freemasons were permitted to wear this jewel as a result.
Freemasons from all over the country attended, including the Duke of Connaught (another of her sons) and the Pro Grand Master, the Earl of Carnarvon. The admission fees were subsequently divided amongst the three national masonic charities of the time: the Royal Masonic Benevolent Institute, the Royal Masonic Institute for Girls, and the Royal Masonic Institute for Boys.
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