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Unfortunately, Princess Alexandra has been the victim of some robberies over the years-- 1958, 1963 and 1972. In 1958 most of the items were recovered and the robbery does not appear to have involved major jewels.

The 1963 robbery is more "interesting" (for want of a better word) as it gives us some insights into wedding presents given to her and her husband. One trial resulting from the robbery also gives some insights into the value of some gifts.

Some of the jewels stolen.



The police recovered the ruby from a brooch given to Princess Alexandra by her aunt, Princess Olga and charged two men with receiving a ruby from the brooch. At times reading about the trial had me wondering. I cannot find any clear account as to whether the ruby was severely damaged when it was prised from the brooch or if it was a lesser quality ruby to begin with. The latter is quite possible as, at the time, Princess Olga was not flush with funds.

Some excerpts of information from the trial.



One of the defence barrister's arguments was that the ruby may not have belonged to Primcess Alexandra.



Despite all this, the jeweller who had purchased the ruby was convicted and jailed.



I have no idea what the brooch looked like.

To me the interest in this robbery is in knowing about some of the gifts given to Princess Alexandra and her husband, as the press did not report on her wedding gifts.