i know what you mean about the midlife thing, except for me, it's the other way around...lol
for years, i wore costume jewelry or sterling silver pieces for fun until i got married, and even at that time, my wedding/engagement ring was the only nice/real jewelry i owned. just wasn't into it back then. plus, i was playing sports and skiing a lot, so all that "bling" wasn't practical for me.
now that i'm 44 and been married for almost 15 years, my tastes have definitely changed. got lots of bling now (although nothing insane) and love it. wear it everyday!
gorgeous necklaces, btw. beautiful!