British Crime Writers Association awarded Sara the Cartier Diamond Dagger for Lifetime Achievement as a crime writer. They cited her groundbreaking role as a writer with the creation of V I Warshawski, and her role in mentoring other writers.
Sara got a tiny lapel pin in the shape of a dagger. The real dagger, which you can see in the picture is made out of gold and has diamonds and rubies in the handle. The dagger is stuck into a silver book, and the names of all recipients are inscribed in the book.
When in London, Sara can request that the dagger be displayed at formal events; Cartier is very generous and helpful on such occasions, and even supplies an armed guard—as we learned when we had it on display at the Margery Allingham centennial luncheon last May. Check the Photos page for photos from the event.