What Happened to Elizabeth Taylor's Jewelry: A Sparkling Saga
Hello there, jewelry enthusiasts and Elizabeth Taylor fans! Today, we're diving into the dazzling world of one of Hollywood's most iconic stars, Elizabeth Taylor, and her extraordinary collection of jewelry. We'll explore what happened to her stunning pieces after her passing and where you can find them today. So, grab a cup of tea, get comfortable, and let's embark on this sparkling journey! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and what happened to elizabeth taylor's jewelry.
Elizabeth Taylor's Iconic Jewelry Collection
Before we delve into the fate of Elizabeth Taylor's jewelry, let's take a moment to appreciate the magnificent collection she amassed throughout her life. Known for her impeccable taste and penchant for all things sparkly, Taylor's jewelry collection was nothing short of extraordinary.
The Taylor-Burton Diamond
One of the most famous pieces in Taylor's collection was the Taylor-Burton Diamond, a 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond given to her by Richard Burton as a Valentine's Day gift in 1969. This stunning gem was one of the largest and most flawless diamonds ever discovered, and it became a symbol of Taylor's glamorous lifestyle.
The La Peregrina Pearl
Another standout piece was the La Peregrina Pearl, a 125.35-carat pearl that once belonged to Queen Mary I of England. Taylor wore this historic pearl as a necklace, and it was one of her most treasured possessions.
The Elizabeth Taylor Collection
Taylor's collection also included numerous other stunning pieces, such as sapphire and diamond earrings, a Cartier watch, and a stunning emerald and diamond necklace. Her love for jewelry was so great that she even wrote a book about it, "My Love Affair with Jewelry," published in 2002.
What Happened to Elizabeth Taylor's Jewelry?
Now that we've admired Taylor's incredible jewelry collection, let's find out what happened to these precious pieces after her passing in 2011.
The Christie's Auction
In December 2011, just a few months after Taylor's death, Christie's auction house held a sale dedicated to her jewelry collection. The auction, titled "The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor," was a star-studded event that drew jewelry enthusiasts and Taylor fans from around the world.
The auction was a resounding success, with the Taylor-Burton Diamond alone selling for a record-breaking $11.15 million. In total, the auction raised over $156 million, making it one of the most valuable jewelry auctions in history.
The Buyers
So, who were the lucky buyers who snapped up these stunning pieces? Well, many of the pieces were purchased by private collectors, but some were also bought by jewelry houses and museums.
For instance, the La Peregrina Pearl was purchased by a private collector for $32.5 million, making it one of the most expensive pearls ever sold at auction. The Taylor-Burton Diamond was bought by an anonymous telephone bidder, who remains unidentified to this day.
The Legacy of Elizabeth Taylor's Jewelry
While many of Taylor's jewelry pieces have changed hands, her legacy as a style icon and jewelry lover lives on. Her passion for jewelry inspired generations of women, and her collection continues to be celebrated as one of the most magnificent ever assembled.
Where to Find Elizabeth Taylor's Jewelry Today
If you're eager to see Taylor's jewelry in person, there are a few places you can visit. Some of her pieces are on display at museums around the world, while others are held in private collections.
The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
The Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C., is home to one of Taylor's most famous pieces, the Taj Mahal Diamond. This 28.53-carat diamond was given to Taylor by Richard Burton in 1972, and it's now part of the museum's permanent collection.
The British Museum
The La Peregrina Pearl is currently on display at the British Museum in London. The pearl is part of the museum's permanent collection, and it's a must-see for anyone interested in the history of this remarkable gem.
Private Collections
Many of Taylor's other pieces are held in private collections, but some of these collectors have loaned their pieces to museums for exhibitions. For instance, in 2014, a selection of Taylor's jewelry was exhibited at the Jewelry Museum of the National Geographic Society in Washington, D.C.
Elizabeth Taylor's Jewelry: A Lasting Impact
Elizabeth Taylor's jewelry collection was more than just a collection of valuable gems—it was a reflection of her extraordinary life and her enduring love for all things sparkly. Through her passion for jewelry, Taylor inspired generations of women to embrace their own unique styles and to celebrate the beauty of gemstones.
Today, Taylor's legacy as a jewelry icon continues to inspire designers, collectors, and fans alike. Her collection may have been dispersed, but her impact on the world of jewelry is eternal.
So, there you have it, folks! A sparkling journey through the life and legacy of Elizabeth Taylor's incredible jewelry collection. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a jewelry enthusiast, there's no denying that Taylor's love for all things shiny and beautiful has left an indelible mark on the world. Until next time, keep shining!