Queen Mary had

 Queen Mary had a keen eye for brilliance when it came to culling jewelry, and the British royal vaults today are stocked with excellent pieces that came straight from her jewelry box. One of her extensive wedding gifts is thought to be the 11-row Pearl and Diamond Choker, consisting of 11 rows of small pearls and two large, elaborate diamond floral elements, which was often worn by her as Princess of Wales in the Edwardian era, and even in earlier portraits as Queen. Luxurious and massive, she used the 11-row Pearl Choker often combined with long pearl necklaces and sautoirs.

Queen Mary, known for her impeccable taste in jewelry, significantly contributed to the opulence of the British royal jewelry collection. One of her most notable wedding gifts is believed to be the 11-row Pearl and Diamond Choker. This exquisite piece features eleven rows of small pearls and two prominent diamond floral elements, epitomizing Edwardian elegance. As Princess of Wales, and later as Queen, Mary frequently adorned herself with this luxurious choker, often pairing it with long pearl necklaces and sautoirs to enhance her regal appearance. Her discerning eye and appreciation for fine craftsmanship have left a lasting legacy within the royal vaults.

Queen Mary, born Mary of Teck on May 26, 1867, was a significant figure in British royal history. She became Queen Consort of the United Kingdom and the British Dominions from 1910 to 1936, as the wife of King George V. Her tenure witnessed profound changes in the monarchy and the world at large.

### Early Life and Marriage

Mary was born in Kensington Palace to Francis, Duke of Teck, and Princess Mary Adelaide of Cambridge. Her initial engagement was to Prince Albert Victor, Duke of Clarence and Avondale, the eldest son of the then Prince of Wales, later King Edward VII. After Albert Victor's untimely death in 1892, Mary became engaged to his brother, Prince George, Duke of York, who would become King George V. Their marriage in 1893 was a strong and affectionate partnership, producing six children.

### Role as Queen Consort

As Queen Consort, Mary was deeply involved in the activities of the royal family and took her duties seriously. She supported her husband through World War I, a period marked by political upheaval and significant social change. Mary was known for her strong sense of duty and unwavering support for the monarchy, which helped maintain the institution's stability during turbulent times.

### Contributions to the Royal Collection

Queen Mary had a profound appreciation for fine jewelry and art, often acquiring exquisite pieces that enriched the royal collection. Her discerning taste ensured that the British royal vaults were stocked with remarkable items, many of which she received as gifts or inherited. Among these treasures is the famed 11-row Pearl and Diamond Choker, which she frequently wore as Princess of Wales and Queen, often paired with long pearl necklaces and sautoirs.

### Later Years and Legacy

After King George V's death in 1936, Mary lived through the abdication crisis of Edward VIII and the subsequent ascension of her second son, George VI. She continued to be an influential figure in the royal family until her death on March 24, 1953.

Queen Mary's legacy is marked by her dedication to the monarchy, her substantial contributions to the royal collection, and her role in shaping the modern image of the British royal family.