Vladimir Alexandrovitch of Russia (1847-1909) was the Senior Grand Duke of the House of Romanov during the reign of his nephew, Tsar Nicholas II. His father was Emperor Alexander II and brother Emperor Alexander III. Vladimir's eldest son and heir, His Imperial Highness The Grand Duke Cyril Vladimirovitch of Russia married without the approval of Tsar Nicholas II, and was stripped of his titles; however, after becoming third in line to the Imperial Throne his titles were reinstated, and, following the Revolution in 1917, was proclaimed Emperor in Paris in exile in 1924. Vladimir's direct descendants therefore headed the Imperial House.

The jewel is also reminiscent of the Fabergé 'snowflake' designs, for which see, lot 261 in this sale.