Brooch of Empress Catherine II, Russia, c. 1760. Emerald, diamonds, gold, silver, 4.5 × 4.5 × 1.5 cm. The Al Thani Collection, ATC0999 ©The Al Thani Collection © Photograph by Marc Domage

Brooch of Empress Catherine II, Russia, c. 1750-70. Rubies, diamonds, gold, silver, enamel, Victoria and Albert Museum, M.85-1951. Cory Bequest © Victoria and Albert Museum, London.

The Romanovs ruled Russia for three centuries, expressing power through magnificent jewels drawn from the mineral wealth of the Ural Mountains. Across generations, gemstones became instruments of status, authority and dynastic splendour.

Catherine II, known as Catherine the Great (r. 1762–96), secured her authority in 1762 and, two years later, created the celebrated Brilliant Room in the Winter Palace in St Petersburg — a dazzling display of regalia, diamonds and precious treasures.

These jewels were not merely worn; they were bestowed. Lavish gifts to courtiers and foreign dignitaries embodied imperial wealth and favour. The portrait and brooches presented here reflect this courtly theatre — adornment as a language of political magnificence.