Members of the Royal Family have worn a special brooch when carrying out engagements to do with the Irish Guards. The golden brooch is in the shape of a shamrock, the symbol of Ireland. It is set with a tiny emerald in the centre, joining the three leaves. Unusually this brooch is not owned by the Royal Family. Its owners are actually the Irish Guards, who loan out the brooch to members of the Royal Family associated with the Guards.
