Where Are All of Elizabeth Taylor's Engagement Rings?

Elizabeth Taylor, an enduring icon of Hollywood’s golden era, was as famous for her beauty and talent as she was for her larger-than-life romances. Among her many relationships, the love story between Taylor and Richard Burton remains one of the most talked-about and extravagant tales in celebrity history. Their passion for each other, marked by grand gestures and opulent gifts, captivated the world.

A Romance Made for Headlines

The relationship between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton began on the set of Cleopatra in 1961. Both married to other people at the time, their fiery affair quickly became a media sensation. Over time, their relationship grew into a deep bond, leading to two marriages (and two divorces). However tumultuous it may have been, their love was also characterized by a shared appreciation of luxury and drama.

The Grandest Expressions of Love

Richard Burton often lavished Elizabeth Taylor with extravagant gifts that reflected his adoration for her. Some of these treasures became legendary in their own right:
– The Krupp Diamond: A dazzling 33.19-carat diamond gifted to Elizabeth in 1968. It would later be named the “Elizabeth Taylor Diamond.”
– La Peregrina Pearl: This historic pearl dates back to the 16th century and was presented to her during their marriage.
– The Taylor-Burton Diamond: Arguably the most famous gift from Burton—a 68-carat pear-shaped diamond that became a symbol of their larger-than-life romance.

A Relationship Built on Passion

Taylor described her relationship with Burton as alternately exhilarating and exhausting—a whirlwind romance fueled by intense chemistry. They supported each other through career highs and personal struggles while enjoying a life filled with opulence.

Year Event
1 Met on set of Cleopatra
2 Married for the first time
3 Divorced after a decade together
4 Remarried but divorced again within a year

Cultural Impact

The Taylor-Burton love story left an indelible mark on pop culture history. Their passionate affair symbolized not only Hollywood glamour but also excess during an era when such lifestyles were aspirational for millions around the globe.

While critics often scrutinized their volatile relationship dynamics, fans admired how unapologetically they loved one another—flaws and all. Through this lens, Taylor and Burton’s romance has become more than just tabloid fodder; it is remembered as an extravagant celebration of passion and devotion.

The Story Behind the Taylor Burton Diamond and Elizabeth Taylor’s Iconic Relationships

Elizabeth Taylor, one of Hollywood’s most iconic figures, was known not only for her talent and beauty but also for her personal life, which captivated the public for decades. Her romantic relationships were as sensational as her career, marked by headline-grabbing marriages and enduring love stories. Below is a closer look at her remarkable marriages and relationships that left an indelible mark on popular culture.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Eight Marriages

Husband Year Married Marriage Duration Notable Details
Conrad “Nicky” Hilton Jr. 1950 Less than one year Taylor’s first marriage; ended in divorce due to alleged abuse.
Michael Wilding 1952 Five years A quiet union with the British actor; they had two sons together.
Mike Todd 1957 One year (until his death) The producer tragically passed away in a plane crash in 1958.
Eddie Fisher 1959 Five years A controversial marriage; Fisher left Debbie Reynolds for Taylor.
Richard Burton 1964 & 1975 Ten years (combined) Her most famous marriage; their love story spanned two unions.
John Warner 1976 Six years A political partnership during Warner’s time as U.S. Senator.
Larry Fortensky 1991 Five years Married at Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch; her final husband.

The Legendary Love Story of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton

Perhaps the most talked-about relationship in Elizabeth Taylor’s life was with Welsh actor Richard Burton. Their tumultuous yet passionate romance began on the set of “Cleopatra” (1963), where their chemistry was undeniable both on-screen and off-screen.

Key Highlights of Their Relationship:

  • Extravagance: The couple became synonymous with lavish gifts, including the famous Taylor-Burton Diamond, a stunning 69-carat gem that symbolized their grandiose lifestyle.
  • On-Screen Collaborations: They starred together in films such as Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? (1966), showcasing their dynamic acting skills.
  • Two Marriages: They divorced in 1974 but reconciled shortly after, remarrying in 1975 before separating permanently in 1976.
  • Legacy: Despite their fiery arguments and eventual separation, their love story remains one of Hollywood’s most legendary romances.

Lessons from Elizabeth Taylor’s Relationships

Elizabeth Taylor approached each relationship with an unyielding passion that mirrored her larger-than-life personality. Her experiences reveal several insights about love and resilience:
1. Embracing Vulnerability: She never hesitated to follow her heart, even when it made headlines or drew criticism. 2. Growth Through Adversity: Each failed relationship shaped her into an even more resilient individual who always prioritized self-discovery. 3. Loyalty to Love: Despite heartbreaks or challenges, she continued to believe intensely in love.

Conclusion on Her Romantic Legacy

Elizabeth Taylor’s relationships were far from conventional yet undeniably compelling—an intricate tapestry woven with love, loss, triumphs, and trials that continues to fascinate audiences worldwide today.

The Legendary Taylor-Burton Diamond: A Jewel for the Ages

The Taylor-Burton Diamond is not just a gemstone; it is a symbol of opulence, romance, and enduring legacy. This legendary jewel has fascinated the world for decades, thanks to its extraordinary size, unparalleled beauty, and the dramatic love story tied to it. Let us delve deeper into the history and significance of this remarkable diamond.

The Origins of the Diamond

The Taylor-Burton Diamond was discovered in 1966 in South Africa at the Premier Mine, known for producing some of the world’s largest and finest diamonds. Originally weighing an astonishing 240 carats in its rough form, it was later cut by Harry Winston, one of the most renowned jewelers in history. After meticulous cutting and polishing, the stone emerged as a dazzling pear-shaped diamond weighing 69.42 carats.

Acquisition by Richard Burton

In 1969, actor Richard Burton acquired this breathtaking diamond as a gift for his then-wife Elizabeth Taylor. The acquisition made headlines worldwide due to its exorbitant price tag—$1.1 million (equivalent to over $8 million today). It was sold at an auction held by Parke-Bernet Galleries in New York City after fierce bidding between several prominent buyers.

Burton’s motivation for purchasing this gem went beyond material wealth; it symbolized his deep love and admiration for Elizabeth Taylor. He even commented on how he believed no other jewel could match her beauty or radiance.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Iconic Style

Elizabeth Taylor wore the Taylor-Burton Diamond with grace and elegance that only she could command. She initially had it set as a ring but later decided that such a significant piece deserved more prominence. It was reimagined into an exquisite necklace designed specifically to showcase its grandeur.

Taylor famously debuted the necklace at Princess Grace of Monaco’s fortieth birthday party in 1970, instantly cementing its place as one of the most talked-about jewels of all time. Every public appearance she made wearing it further elevated her reputation as one of Hollywood’s most glamorous figures.

Key Features of the Diamond

Feature Detail
Carat Weight 69.42 carats
Shape Pear-shaped
Origin Premier Mine, South Africa
Cut Precision-cut by Harry Winston
Value (at purchase) $1.1 million
Current Estimated Value Over $20 million

The Fate of the Taylor-Burton Diamond

After Elizabeth Taylor’s divorce from Richard Burton in 1976, she eventually sold the diamond in 1979 to fund her charitable initiatives focused on building a hospital in Botswana. The stone was purchased by Robert Mouawad, a Lebanese jeweler known for collecting exceptional diamonds.

Today, while its exact whereabouts remain private due to Mouawad’s discretion with his collection, the legend surrounding this gem persists—a reflection not only of its intrinsic value but also its storied past intertwined with two Hollywood icons.

The Taylor-Burton Diamond remains one of history’s most celebrated gemstones—a testament to love, luxury, and timeless beauty that continues to captivate admirers worldwide.

The Taylor-Burton Diamond | Diamond Source of Virginia

The Legendary Taylor-Burton Diamond: A Jewel for the Ages

The Taylor-Burton Diamond is one of the most famous gemstones in history, celebrated not just for its size and beauty but also for the story of love, glamour, and indulgence it represents. This 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond has become synonymous with luxury and extravagance, capturing the imagination of millions around the world.

Discovery and Origins of the Diamond

  • Discovery: The diamond was discovered in 1966 at South Africa’s Premier Mine.
  • Initial Weight: It weighed an impressive 240.80 carats in its rough form.
  • Cutting Process: Renowned jeweler Harry Winston purchased the rough diamond and meticulously cut it into a flawless pear shape. The cutting process reduced its size significantly but enhanced its brilliance.

Acquisition by Richard Burton

Richard Burton, already known for his grand romantic gestures toward Elizabeth Taylor, famously acquired this extraordinary gemstone in 1969. Initially sold at auction by Cartier, Burton secured it after a bidding war that highlighted his determination to purchase what would later be called the “Taylor-Burton Diamond.”

  • Winning Bid: $1.1 million (equivalent to over $8 million today when adjusted for inflation).
  • Original Setting: Cartier initially displayed the diamond as part of a necklace before Burton’s acquisition.
  • Renaming: After acquiring it, Burton renamed it “The Taylor-Burton Diamond” as a symbol of their relationship.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Iconic Display

Elizabeth Taylor first wore this legendary diamond publicly at Princess Grace of Monaco’s 40th birthday celebration in Monte Carlo. Its jaw-dropping brilliance immediately drew international attention.

  • Jewelry Design: After purchasing it, Taylor had Harry Winston redesign it into a necklace so that its grandeur could be fully appreciated.
  • Cultural Impact: It became a centerpiece in her collection and solidified her reputation as both a fashion icon and connoisseur of fine jewels.

Sale and Legacy

In 1978, following her divorce from Richard Burton, Elizabeth Taylor sold the diamond to fund charitable causes such as building a hospital in Botswana. The sale fetched approximately $3 million—nearly three times its original price—showcasing both its increasing value and enduring allure.

  1. Exceptional craftsmanship.
  2. A lavish love story characterized by passion and opulence.
  3. The influence of Elizabeth Taylor on modern jewelry culture.
Feature Detail
Original Owner Harry Winston
Weight (in carats) 69.42
Shape Pear
Sale Price (1969) $1.1 million
Sale Price (1978) $3 million
Current Location Unknown

The Taylor-Burton Diamond is more than just an exquisite piece of jewelry; it is an enduring symbol of love expressed through grandeur. Its story reflects Elizabeth Taylor’s larger-than-life persona and her ability to turn any possession into an object of cultural fascination. It remains one of history’s most legendary gemstones—a timeless tribute to romance, artistry, and luxury intertwined.

How Elizabeth Taylor Redefined Glamour with Her Love for Famous Jewelry

Elizabeth Taylor’s love for fine jewelry transcended mere possession; it became an essential part of how she defined and embodied glamour. Her extensive collection of exquisite jewels, combined with her undeniable charm, established her as a style icon whose aesthetic continues to inspire generations. Through her bold choices and impeccable eye for beauty, Taylor demonstrated how jewelry could be worn not just as an accessory but as an extension of one’s personality.

A Passion for Exceptional Craftsmanship

  • Unique Cuts and Designs: From emerald-cut diamonds to pear-shaped masterpieces like the famed Taylor-Burton Diamond, her collection boasted rare and innovative designs.
  • Historical Significance: Many pieces in her possession carried rich histories, including jewels once owned by royalty or designed by renowned artisans.
  • High-Caliber Stones: Taylor gravitated toward gems of superior quality—diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies that were among the finest in the world.

Her discerning taste allowed her to curate one of the most remarkable private collections ever assembled.

Glamour Through Bold Choices

  • Statement Pieces: Whether it was a 33-carat Krupp Diamond ring or Bulgari emerald necklaces, Taylor opted for bold statement items that naturally drew attention.
  • Day-to-Night Elegance: She demonstrated that glamorous jewels could be worn casually during the day or paired with formal evening wear at high-profile events.
  • Layering Techniques: Taylor often layered necklaces or combined several bracelets to create a striking yet balanced effect.

By embracing these techniques, she made a case for breaking free from traditional styling rules in favor of personal expression.

Iconic Appearances

Event/Occasion Signature Jewel Worn
1969 Academy Awards The Krupp Diamond ring paired with a yellow gown
Marriage to Richard Burton (1964) Bulgari Emerald Suite
Cleopatra Film Promotions Serpentine diamond necklace inspired by ancient motifs

These appearances cemented both Taylor’s reputation as Hollywood royalty and the link between glamour and exquisite gems.

Empowering Individuality Through Style

Taylor viewed jewelry not simply as adornment but as an empowering form of self-expression. She chose pieces that reflected her personality—bold, passionate, and glamorous. She also embraced versatility by repurposing certain items into new designs or wearing large stones on casual occasions. By doing so, she encouraged others to view luxury not as distant or untouchable but as something deeply personal.

Through her love for exquisite jewels combined with fearless styling choices, Elizabeth Taylor set herself apart as one of history’s most glamorous figures while leaving behind an enduring legacy of elegance and individuality.

The Legacy of Elizabeth Taylor’s Famous Diamonds and Timeless Style

Elizabeth Taylor’s legacy extends far beyond her storied acting career. A true icon of glamour and sophistication, Taylor redefined what it meant to embody style, elegance, and individuality. Central to her enduring image was her love for exquisite jewelry. Her collection not only set benchmarks for opulence but also reflected her unique personality, passion, and life experiences.

A Collection That Defined an Era

Elizabeth Taylor curated one of the most extraordinary private jewelry collections in history, valued at over $100 million at the time of its auction in 2011. Her pieces went beyond financial worth—they carried deep personal meaning and underscored her status as a cultural symbol of beauty and excess.

Some notable highlights from her collection include:
– The Krupp Diamond (33.19 carats): Renamed the “Elizabeth Taylor Diamond,” its dazzling clarity became a signature piece she wore often during public appearances.
– La Peregrina Pearl: A 16th-century pearl gifted by Richard Burton, this piece was mounted on a Cartier necklace designed to Taylor’s specifications.
– The Taj Mahal Diamond: Another token from Burton, this heart-shaped diamond necklace dated back to the Mughal Empire and was engraved with intricate historical inscriptions.
– The Taylor-Burton Diamond (69 carats): This pear-shaped diamond remains one of the most iconic jewels ever associated with Hollywood royalty.

How Jewelry Became Part of Her Identity

For Elizabeth Taylor, jewelry wasn’t merely adornment; it was an expression of love, power, and self-assurance. Each piece in her collection told a story:
– Romance: Many of her most prized possessions were gifts from Richard Burton, whose devotion was cemented by his desire to give her treasures worthy of their dramatic relationship. – Artistry: She favored rare stones that showcased impeccable craftsmanship rather than conventional designs. – Empowerment: Over time, Taylor used jewelry as a means to support causes close to her heart—such as HIV/AIDS research—by auctioning select items from her collection.

Timeless Influence on Modern Style

Elizabeth Taylor’s bold fashion choices remain relevant today. Her ability to pair oversized diamonds with elegant gowns created trends that continue to influence red carpet styles. Additionally:
1. Designers often cite pieces like the Krupp Diamond or La Peregrina Pearl when creating collections inspired by iconic women. 2. Modern celebrities emulate aspects of Taylor’s style by embracing statement jewelry as part of their fashion narratives.

Jewel Name Carat Weight Significance Gifted By
Krupp Diamond 33.19 Worn frequently; renamed “Elizabeth Taylor Diamond” Richard Burton
La Peregrina Pearl N/A Historical pearl redesigned into Cartier necklace Richard Burton
Taj Mahal Diamond N/A Mughal-era heart-shaped diamond given on birthday Richard Burton
Taylor-Burton Diamond 69 Pear-shaped diamond; symbolized grand romance Richard Burton

Legacy Beyond Jewelry

Taylor’s association with jewelry solidified how luxury could intersect with personal narrative—a concept that continues in modern celebrity culture today. By embracing extravagance unapologetically while giving back through philanthropy later in life, she left an indelible mark that reverberates through Hollywood glamour and beyond.

 

By : Dennis Tobin Tags: