modelled as a flowerhead of red campion (silene dioica), the distinctive petals mounted with mixed cut rubies centred with diamonds, the stem comprising of a graduated row of baguette cut diamonds, the curling leaves pavé set with brilliant cut diamonds.
Length: 5.9cm
The Romans weaved garlands of red campion to adorn the winners of their public games. The name is derived from Silenus, the wise and often mischievous companion of the god of wine Dionysus. Picking the blossoms in the wild was considered bad luck, as the flowers protected woodland fairies. Its seeds were thought to cure snake bites.
Here’s a cheerful somebody,
By the woodland’s edge;
Campion the many-named,
Robin-in-the-hedge.
Coming when the bluebells come,
When they’re gone, he stays,
(Round Robin, Red Robin)
All the summer days.
Soldiers’ Buttons, Robin Flower,
In the lane or wood;
Robin Redbreast, Red Jack,
Yes, and Robin Hood!
Flower Fairies of the Wayside by Cicely Mary Barker (1895–1973)