Quite right! Far too ostentatious and 'de trop!!!' But I tend to think that the PoW has a great deal of influence in the area of what Camilla wears, jewels included! Perhaps in this case he 'liked' the concept of the 'five rows' necklace with the honeycomb tiara, because they combine to present an irrefutably spectacular statement about the wearer's rank and position. I have read that Cookie wore the necklace in 1950, does this mean it has slumbered in her jar since then? I must say I do not remember seeing it more frequently! In Camilla's defense, I can not think of any member of the present RF who could carry the necklace off with aplomb..... even the Queen is a little too vertically challenged for it, and it is just too barbarous! Indeed QM or even QA could have carried it off, but in todays' day and age, IMO such pieces should be reserved for 'State Openings' and other really important events at home, where such conspicuous symbols of wealth are acceptable as part of the panoply of the monarchy, of which we Brits are quietly but justly proud!
It is just an impression, but I feel that the PoW sees jewelry as an element that can only enhance and confirm his wife's stature (not status, that is already cencrete now!) and position in public. It may seem shallow, but David did a similar thing when he showered Wallis with prize pieces, perhaps in order to sooth insecurities and make a point to others. In the PoW and DoC's case, I tend to believe that it is a matter of the former wanting to have his wife adorned in 'family' pieces of significance, to reflect her significance, not just to himself, but to the country and Commonwealth. It is is only an idea! It is a shame that an alternative to the Durbar and Honeycomb tiaras hasn't come to light yet, which would ideally compliment the diamond serpent necklace. I think that particular necklace, one of the nicest and most classic items in the DoC's collection!
