Tiara and Earrings by Catherine II of Russia

There comes a point in a magpie's life when they see a really sparkly object and not know anything about it, and it's even more painful to not even have a name for it. All that the magpie knows is that it's sparkly, it's pretty and darn awesome.

It once belonged to Catherine II of Russia, who was the longest-reigning female leader of Russia. Although she was born a Princess, her family didn't have enough money. She married Peter III and came into power after a coup d'etat and the assassination of her husband. She reigned until her death when she was sixty-seven.

Here's a partial close-up of her beautiful tiara and earrings. I wish these jewels will see the light of day (and cameras) on a royal's head soon