This ‘parure’ (set of jewellery) demonstrates the way that jewellery, like clothing, was often modified over time according to changes in fashion. The necklace was originally a ‘cotiere’, a long chain worn caught up in the chest, a style often depicted in portraits of the late sixteenth century. By tradition the necklace was a gift from Mary, Queen of Scots to her devoted attendant and personal hairdresser Mary Seton.