Diamond Coronet Tiara of seven large shamrocks, clover leaves set in diamonds, made ca 1820, above worn by the Vicereine of India, Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava, Hariot Georgina Hamilton-Temple-Blackwood 1843-1936.
Even after Lord Dufferin's retirement from government service, Hariot's tiara sparkled on the social scene. One London paper described her appearance at an 1891 ball given by the King and Queen of Italy: "The Marchioness of Dufferin and Ava wore pearl-grey silk, embroidered elaborately in silver. On her head she wore a tiara of shamrocks in diamonds, and across the bodice of her dress gleamed a number of Orders."
The Clover Leaf tiara is seen in a portrait of the Marchioness by Carl Guntherz, painted in 1894 in honour of Lady Dufferin's non-sectarian healing service to the women of India. The tiara is clearly visible; "...the darkest point is the hair, on which rests a tiara of diamonds the shamrocks of the lady's land Jewels and orders embellish the throat and shoulders, and the Order of the Sultan crosses the breast."
The Sultan presented Lady Dufferin with the insignia of the Order of Shekfat, set in brilliants.
"At the conclusion Colonel Chatterton addresed her ladyship and solicited one more favour at her hands - her acceptance of a bracelet, the collective gift of every man on the rolls in all branches, including the cadets. Lady Dufferin, who was evidently much touched, in a few graceful words tendered her acknowledment and received the bracelet, which was jewelled with sapphires pearls and brilliants and bore a suitable inscription."
Lord and Lady Dufferin’s tenure in India came to an end in 1888, and a leather bound inventory of Lady Dufferin’s possessions made that same year lists the jewels and ornaments in her collection, which amusingly includes a horseshoe sapphire and pearl brooch, ‘Given by Eugenie, Empress of the French, to Lord Dufferin as a prize for winning a foot race’
Sources: Military Intelligence Homeward Mail From India, China and The East Monday 09 April 1888;Northman and Northern Counties Advertiser; Belfast Morning News