This is very interesting Sam. I have seen Grand Duchess Maria Pavlovna wearing these pearls as earrings in various photos over the years. I had no idea they still existed within the English royal family and are in use.

Here's some old photos of Grand Duchess Marie and her pearls. It does look like she may have been creative with these pieces as well and possibly had various earrings etc where they could be moved around with minimal fuss.







With her daughter Elena. Both in formal court dress.