I suspect that this interpretation has come from the light refraction seen in many photos. For example
In many of the photos from the reception on the Illustrious in Turkey in 2008, the same could be said of HM's necklace and earrings.
There are numerous other photos where this item looks more like a diamond brooch.
In some of these photos I can see a metal base under what others think are "crystals"
It might be an elaborate piece of beading worked from crystals but, in contrast to the Irish harp embroidery, it seems three dimensional.
One possibility is that this is the elusive brooch described as a flower and spray brooch sent to QEII as a wedding gift by the Grand Lodge of Scotland. Despite many searches, I have never found a photo of this gift, but it is highly likely that this would have been a significant item. HM has surprised us all by wearing (in public) her brooch with the very large diamonds only in recent years. And also a few other large brooches.
It may also be, as others suggest, a costume item but, unless it is attached directly to the dress as an embroidered item, I very much doubt it.
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