Elizabeth Taylor was a Hollywood icon, a style icon, and a lover of jewelry. Her collection of famous jewelry pieces is legendary, and her unique style is still influential today. Her love for jewelry and her exceptional taste in collecting them made her one of the most iconic and fascinating figures in the world of fashion and jewelry.

The Legendary Taylor-Burton Diamond

One of the most famous pieces in Elizabeth Taylor's collection was the Taylor-Burton diamond. The diamond was originally found in South Africa, weighing an astonishing 240.80 carats. It was later cut into a pear-shaped diamond weighing 68 carats. Richard Burton bought the diamond at an auction and gave it to Elizabeth Taylor as a gift. The Taylor-Burton diamond is known for its stunning clarity, color, and size, and it became one of the most famous diamonds in the world.

Other Notable Pieces from Taylor's Collection

Elizabeth Taylor had a vast collection of jewelry pieces, including some of the most famous diamonds and pearls in the world. One of her most cherished pieces was the Krupp Diamond, which was given to her by Richard Burton. Another famous piece in her collection was the La Peregrina Pearl, which was once owned by Queen Mary I of England. Taylor had a passion for collecting jewelry, and she was always on the lookout for unique and exceptional pieces.

The Auction of Taylor's Jewelry

The auction of Elizabeth Taylor's jewelry collection in 2011 was a historic event that captured the attention of the world. The collection consisted of over 1,000 pieces of jewelry, including iconic pieces like the Taylor-Burton Diamond, the Krupp Diamond, and the La Peregrina Pearl, as well as many other exquisite items.

The auction was held by Christie's, one of the world's leading auction houses, and took place over four days in New York City. The event was highly publicized and attracted bidders from around the world, as well as fans and collectors who simply wanted to witness the sale of these legendary pieces.

The proceeds from the auction were staggering, with the total sale reaching over $115 million. The Taylor-Burton Diamond alone sold for over $48 million, setting a new world record for the sale of a diamond at auction. Other pieces, such as the La Peregrina Pearl, also sold for well over their estimated value.

The emotional attachment to the jewelry was evident throughout the auction, with many pieces selling for several times their estimated value due to their association with Elizabeth Taylor. The auction also had a significant impact on the jewelry market, with many pieces becoming even more highly coveted after the sale.

Overall, the auction of Elizabeth Taylor's jewelry collection was a momentous event that highlighted the enduring appeal of her style and the importance of jewelry as an art form.

Taylor's Personal Style and the Role of Jewelry

Elizabeth Taylor's personal style was reflected in her jewelry choices. She was known for her love of bold, colorful pieces, and she was not afraid to mix and match different metals and stones. Her jewelry was an extension of her personality and her status, and she wore them with confidence and elegance. Jewelry was an essential part of her life, and she was never seen without a stunning piece on her.

Taylor's Legacy and Influence on Contemporary Jewelry

Elizabeth Taylor's impact on the world of jewelry and fashion is immeasurable. Her collection continues to fascinate and inspire designers and jewelry enthusiasts to this day. The cultural significance of her pieces cannot be overstated, as they represent not only her personal style and status but also the changing social and fashion trends of the time.

One of the most notable ways that Elizabeth Taylor's legacy has influenced contemporary jewelry is through her love of color. Taylor was known for her bold and vibrant style, often mixing and matching gemstones and metals in unexpected ways. This trend has continued to be popular in modern jewelry design, with designers experimenting with unconventional color combinations and incorporating a wide range of gemstones into their pieces.

Taylor's affinity for layering and stacking jewelry has also influenced modern trends. Layering necklaces, bracelets, and rings has become increasingly popular in recent years, with many designers taking inspiration from Taylor's daring and eclectic style. Her use of bold statement pieces alongside delicate, understated pieces has also become a popular trend in contemporary jewelry.

In addition to influencing fashion trends, Taylor's jewelry collection has also had a significant impact on the jewelry market. The sale of her collection at auction in 2011 was one of the most highly publicized events in the world of jewelry, and the prices paid for her pieces shattered records. The sale brought in over $150 million, with the Taylor-Burton Diamond alone selling for $50 million.

Since the auction, replicas and reinterpretations of Elizabeth Taylor's iconic jewelry pieces have become increasingly popular. Many designers and jewelry companies have created their own versions of her most famous pieces, such as the Krupp Diamond and the La Peregrina Pearl. While these replicas may be more accessible to the general public, it is important to note that they do not hold the same cultural or historical significance as the original pieces.

The Value of Elizabeth Taylor's Famous Items

The value of Elizabeth Taylor's jewelry pieces extends far beyond their monetary worth. These items are cultural artifacts that offer insight into the life and style of one of the most iconic figures of the 20th century. The personal stories and emotional attachment behind each piece make them truly invaluable.

The Taylor-Burton Diamond, for example, is not only the largest diamond ever found but also represents the love and passion between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Its story is a testament to the enduring power of love and the emotional significance that jewelry can hold.

The Krupp Diamond, on the other hand, is a stunning example of classic Hollywood glamour. It was one of Elizabeth Taylor's favorite pieces, and she often wore it in public appearances and on the red carpet. Its historical significance and connection to one of Hollywood's biggest stars make it a highly sought-after piece.

The La Peregrina Pearl is another iconic piece from Elizabeth Taylor's collection. This 16th-century pearl was once owned by Spanish royalty and was famously worn by Queen Mary I of England. Elizabeth Taylor's ownership of the pearl added to its historical and cultural significance, making it one of the most highly valued pieces in her collection.

Conclusion

Elizabeth Taylor's jewelry collection is a testament to her personal style, status, and legacy. Her love of bold and colorful pieces, layering, and mixing metals and gemstones has had a lasting impact on the world of jewelry and fashion. The cultural and historical significance of her pieces cannot be overstated, as they represent not only her personal style but also the changing social and fashion trends of the time.

The auction of her collection in 2011 was a highly publicized event that shattered records and further cemented her status as a fashion icon. Replicas and reinterpretations of her most famous pieces continue to be popular, but it is important to