Prince of Wales Necklace

This necklace is inspired from a necklace worn by Princess Diana on many occassions with either an emerald or sapphire drop. Although the three feathers is commonly known as the Prince of Wales Feathers - it is actually the badge of the heir apparent, whether Prince of Wales or not. The badge comprises three silver ostrich feathers which rise through a coronet of crosses pattee and fleur-de-lisall gold, along with the motto ‘ICH DIEN’ (I Serve). The use of ostrich feathers in royal heraldry is first found during the riegn of Edward III.  The circumstance of their adoption is obscure, but may have derived through the house of Hainault; Edward III married Phillipa of Hainault in 1329.  The feathers were later adopted by the Princes of Wales. There have been twenty one Princes of Wales since the title was first used. Prince Charles was created Prince of Wales on  26 July 1958, aged 9, and Queen Elizabeth II invested him with the symbols of his office on 1 July 1969 at Caernarfon Castle.