WHO IS CATHERINE THE GREAT?
RUSSIA’S LONGEST-RULING FEMALE LEADER
A women who changed the world - least not as a woman who supported women. Discover her transformative story, a bow jewel she commissioned, and modern interpretations by Kristin Hanson!
CATHERINE THE GREAT
Ruling Russia from 1762 until 1796, Catherine the Great was a Power Woman whose story is far from dull. Her gutsy transformation from Prussian Princess to Russia’s Empress involved abetting her dim husband’s death (and other rivals), a questionable intimate personal life (it did not involve a horse), a thirst for empire (expanding into Europe, Asia and North America), a Turkish war and an epic peasant revolt (Pugachev’s Rebellion).
She had socially enlightened views and personally disagreed with Russia’s serfdom structure. Yet keeping her throne meant keeping the nobles happy. Following the revolt, she proclaimed an amnesty - forgiving the peasants to end the violence inflicted upon them by their lords. While Catherine did not eradicate slavery, she did reform it. She also reformed the Russian civic administration and rewrote Russian laws. As a patron of education, she built schools throughout Russia and granted greater freedom for women to pursue education. The arts thrived under her influence, including a golden age of female artists - and we have Catherine to thank for the Hermitage Museum.
In her time, she absolutely left an indelible mark on history as the most powerful woman in the world.
Portrait by Fyodor Rokotov, 1763
CATHERINE’S BOW NECKLACE
Cathrine the Great’s contribution to history also included the largest addition to the storied Russian Imperial family’s jewelry collection - dating back to Peter the Great. One of her sublime additions was this multi-wear diamond necklace with a bow clasp, which could be worn together or separately. Thought to have been commissioned by the Empress herself between 1760 and 1780 (she would have been 30 - 50), one can only imagine what it might have symbolized for her. Femininity? Playfulness? Love?
Following the end of the Romanov dynasty and World War I, this unforgettable jewel was among “The Russian State Jewels” London auction in 1927. A few auctions later in 2016, it sold for over $2 million at Sotheby’s Geneva.
Oh the stories this jewel could tell...
KRISTIN HANSON - BOW JEWELS
Since the Sun King, bows have enjoyed several vogues in jewelry history. Kristin Hanson’s modern interpretation on this motif are why we are smitten once more!
Be it bracelet, ring or earrings Kristin’s diamond bow jewels are sparkling statements of femininity with denim jeans or an ethereal gown. Especially with a touch or two of pink diamonds!
DM me to learn more about Kristin’s bow jewelry for purchase!
KRISTIN HANSON
IN THE SHOP:
CURATED DESIGNER JEWELRY THAT ALIGNS WITH YOUR VALUES
Interested in a curated selection of discerning fine jewelry? I’m here for you!
As your jewelry guide, I help you acquire responsibly sourced rings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets - designed by women. This means striving for:
• transparency in origin
• conflict-free
• supporting and protecting people, their skills, and the environment - be it land or sea.
What are the benefits of The Brilliant Concierge service?
A fluid, personalized experience, presenting you with thoughtfully designed jewelry for purchase you will love. The service can be:
• Editing your current jewelry wardrobe and anticipating needs for your next purchase.
• Advising you on kinds of jewelry that fit your lifestyle and values, as well as wear and care considerations.
• Sourcing jewelry for you or a gift for someone you love, be it day-to-night stud earrings or an engagement ring.