Elizabeth Taylor’s life was intricately entwined with timeless jewelry pieces that captured her romances, personality, and legacy. Among them, the 29-carat emerald-cut diamond given to her by producer Mike Todd in 1956 holds a special place. Beyond its monetary and aesthetic value, this gem represents a poignant moment in both Taylor’s personal history and Hollywood’s golden age.

The Story Behind the Diamond

Mike Todd, Elizabeth Taylor’s third husband, was known for his grand gestures and larger-than-life persona. As a celebrated film producer behind classics like Around the World in 80 Days, Todd believed in expressing love with unparalleled extravagance. In 1956, he gifted Taylor the dazzling 29-carat emerald-cut diamond ring as a symbol of his devotion.

The ring wasn’t just an engagement gift; it was a public declaration of their whirlwind romance. At the time, Taylor was already gaining recognition for her beauty and acting prowess. Todd’s gesture further catapulted their relationship into Hollywood folklore.

Design Details of the Ring

  • Size: Featuring a massive 29-carat center stone.
  • Cut: The emerald cut showcased the diamond’s clarity and created a sophisticated, elongated silhouette.
  • Setting: The diamond sat within a simple platinum band that emphasized its brilliance without unnecessary embellishments.

This design epitomized mid-century glamour—a blend of understated luxury with undeniable opulence.

A Glimpse Into Their Relationship

Taylor often referred to Mike Todd as one of her great loves. Unlike some of her other marriages marked by turbulence or scandal, their time together was filled with passion and mutual respect. In interviews, she described how Todd made her feel cherished—his choice of such an extraordinary piece of jewelry echoed his deep admiration for her.

Unfortunately, their love story was cut short when Todd tragically died in a plane crash in 1958—just over a year after they were married. While their relationship ended abruptly, this diamond became both an enduring reminder of their bond and one of Elizabeth Taylor’s most prized possessions.

Impact on Elizabeth Taylor’s Jewelry Legacy

  1. Foundation of Iconic Collection: This ring ignited what would eventually become one of the most discussed private collections in history.
  2. Symbolism Over Size: Despite owning larger diamonds later (like the famous 33-carat Krupp Diamond), this piece always held sentimental value due to its association with true love.
  3. Jewelry as Identity: It reinforced how jewelry would become not just an accessory but part of Taylor’s identity—each item telling its own story.
Attribute Details
Carat Weight 29 carats
Cut Emerald
Setting Material Platinum
Relationship Period Married March 1957 – March 1958

A Lasting Legacy

Even decades after Mike Todd’s passing, Elizabeth often spoke fondly about this chapter in her life and wore the ring as a cherished memory. It represented more than just luxury—it encapsulated love at its purest form during one brief yet unforgettable period in Hollywood history.

Elizabeth Taylor’s life was defined not only by her iconic films and romantic escapades but also by her legendary jewelry collection, which remains one of the most celebrated in history. Among the most memorable pieces was the exquisite Bulgari brooch gifted to her by Richard Burton in 1964, a symbol of their passionate and storied relationship. This brooch is more than a piece of jewelry; it represents an era of glamour, timeless elegance, and one of Hollywood’s greatest love stories.

The Design: A Masterpiece from Bulgari

  • Center Gemstone: A stunning cabochon emerald weighing approximately 18.61 carats sits at the heart of this masterpiece. Its rich green hue signifies power, beauty, and eternal love.
  • Accent Stones: Surrounding the emerald are clusters of brilliant-cut diamonds mounted in platinum, which add brilliance and depth to the piece.
  • Convertible Feature: True to Elizabeth Taylor’s preference for versatile jewelry, this brooch could be worn as a pendant or attached to a gown as an ornament.

This impeccable attention to detail solidified Bulgari’s reputation as one of Taylor’s favorite jewelers and demonstrated Richard Burton’s discerning taste when it came to selecting gifts for his beloved.

A Symbolic Gift

  • A Celebration of Love: Burton gave Taylor this brooch during their first marriage (1964–1974), a decade marked by fiery passion and mutual admiration.
  • Purchased in Rome: The piece was acquired while Burton and Taylor were filming Cleopatra in Rome, further linking it to their iconic on-screen collaboration that sparked their real-life romance.
  • Taylor’s Affection for Emeralds: As one of her favorite gemstones, emeralds often appeared in multiple pieces within her collection. This gift reflected Burton’s attentiveness toward understanding Taylor’s tastes.

The Legacy of the Brooch

Attribute Significance
Cultural Relevance Frequently photographed during red-carpet events where Taylor wore it proudly.
Fashion Influence Inspired future collaborations between luxury jewelry brands and Hollywood stars.
Auction Value When auctioned at Christie’s after her passing in 2011, its sale reaffirmed its place among collectors’ most coveted items.

Why This Piece Still Matters Today

Decades later, Elizabeth Taylor’s Bulgari emerald-and-diamond brooch continues to captivate historians, collectors, and fashion enthusiasts alike. It serves as an enduring example of how personal relationships can elevate material objects into symbols with profound meaning. Moreover, it reflects Richard Burton’s pivotal role in curating a jewelry collection that remains unmatched in its scale and splendor.

By combining romance with artistry, Elizabeth Taylor’s possessions transcend mere adornments; they tell stories that still resonate with admirers across generations—a reminder that true elegance endures forever.

The Bulgari Brooch from Richard Burton in 1964: A Gift of Timeless Elegance

Elizabeth Taylor’s breathtaking jewelry collection is one of the most celebrated in history, and at the heart of its allure lies the Bulgari brooch gifted by Richard Burton in 1964. This piece is not only a testament to Taylor’s love for exquisite craftsmanship but also a symbol of her legendary romance with Burton. The Bulgari brooch encapsulates elegance, opulence, and an unmatched attention to detail.

A Masterpiece of Design

  • Emerald Centerpiece: At the heart of the brooch lies an extraordinary Colombian emerald weighing approximately 18.61 carats. Its vivid green hue captures the eye and serves as a focal point for this masterpiece.
  • Brilliant-Cut Diamonds: Surrounding the emerald are numerous brilliant-cut diamonds, enhancing its radiance. These diamonds are meticulously arranged to create both contrast and harmony with the centerpiece.
  • Convertible Functionality: A hallmark of high jewelry from this period, this piece can be worn both as a brooch or as a pendant on a necklace, adding versatility to its beauty.

Taylor’s appreciation for such artistry was evident in her own words when she described her love for emeralds as being rooted in their boldness and vibrancy.

A Symbol of Enduring Love

Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor’s relationship has been described as one of Hollywood’s most passionate unions. When Burton presented Taylor with this gift during their first marriage (1964–1974), it wasn’t just about luxury—it was deeply personal.

The acquisition took place during one of their many visits to Rome, where they often frequented Bulgari’s flagship store on Via Condotti. According to accounts from Taylor herself, it was Richard who had an impeccable eye for selecting some of her most iconic pieces.

Burton once famously quipped, “I introduced Elizabeth Taylor to beer, and she introduced me to Bulgari.” This statement reflected their mutual indulgences—Taylor’s love for jewels and Burton’s delight in gifting them as tokens of his admiration.

Historical Significance & Legacy

Over time, the Bulgari brooch became one of Elizabeth Taylor’s signature pieces. It graced red carpets, high-profile events, and even public appearances where she championed charitable causes. This piece exemplifies how Taylor’s style influenced not just fashion but also Hollywood glamour during her era.

In December 2011, during Christie’s landmark auction titled The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor, this exquisite brooch garnered significant attention from collectors worldwide. Fetching over $6 million at auction (far exceeding its presale estimate), it reaffirmed not only its monetary value but also its cultural significance.

Feature Specification
Center Stone Colombian Emerald (18.61 carats)
Surround Stones Brilliant-Cut Diamonds
Designer Bulgari
Auction Price Over $6 Million

Influence on Modern Jewelry Trends

The brooch remains an inspiration for contemporary designers seeking to replicate timeless elegance. Its combination of richly colored gemstones with brilliant diamonds continues influencing modern designs in haute couture collections today.

Elizabeth Taylor’s connection with her jewelry went beyond adornment; each piece carried stories that highlighted milestones in her life—whether romantic or professional. Among them all, the Bulgari emerald-and-diamond brooch stands out as a poignant reminder of how personal art can transcend material value into emotional significance that resonates through generations.

Elizabeth Taylor’s Iconic Sapphire and Diamond Ring from Dennis Stein in 1984

Elizabeth Taylor, renowned for her extraordinary taste in jewelry, added another remarkable piece to her legendary collection in 1984: a stunning sapphire and diamond ring gifted by Dennis Stein. This exquisite piece of jewelry not only highlighted Taylor’s love for bold, glamorous designs but also reflected the enduring allure of sapphires as a symbol of sophistication and elegance. Here, we explore the story behind this iconic ring and what it represented during this chapter of Taylor’s life.

A Gesture of Deep Admiration

Dennis Stein, a wealthy businessman and one-time fiancé of Elizabeth Taylor, presented this ring as a token of his affection. While their engagement was ultimately short-lived, the sapphire and diamond ring became emblematic of their relationship—a gesture representing admiration for Taylor’s unique beauty and charisma.

The centerpiece of the ring was an exceptional blue sapphire—deeply saturated in color—framed by dazzling diamonds that enhanced its brilliance. This combination perfectly captured Taylor’s penchant for vibrant, attention-grabbing jewelry that nevertheless retained timeless elegance.

Design Details: A Study in Elegance

  • Center Stone: A large oval-cut deep blue sapphire served as the focal point.
  • Setting: Surrounded by pave or baguette-cut diamonds that accentuated the rich hue of the sapphire.
  • Band Material: Likely platinum or white gold to complement the cool tones of both the diamonds and sapphire.
  • Style: Classic yet bold—a hallmark of Elizabeth Taylor’s personal style.

Sapphires are often associated with nobility, wisdom, and sincerity—qualities that resonate with much of Taylor’s celebrated persona both on-screen and off.

Sapphires in Hollywood Glamour

Elizabeth Taylor’s affinity for vibrant gemstones like sapphires solidified her status as an icon in Hollywood fashion circles. Sapphires have long been prized by royalty (such as Princess Diana’s famous engagement ring) and celebrities alike. By incorporating such stones into her collection, Taylor not only showcased her personal preference but also influenced trends within high society.

In addition to her 1984 sapphire ring from Dennis Stein, she owned other pieces featuring sapphires; however, this particular gift stood out due to its intimate emotional significance during a transitional period in her life.

The Ring’s Legacy Today

Although Elizabeth Taylor never married Dennis Stein, their brief engagement is immortalized through this unforgettable piece. Today, collectors view it as part of her broader legacy—a symbol not only tied to their relationship but also to the actress’s unmatched ability to elevate fine jewelry into cultural artifacts.

The ring joined an array of treasures within what later became known as one of history’s most famous private jewelry collections. Auctioned after Taylor’s passing in 2011 through Christie’s, many pieces—including those featuring rare gemstones like sapphires—garnered record-breaking bids due to their association with her extraordinary life story.

This sapphire and diamond ring remains an enduring example from Elizabeth Taylor’s collection that exemplifies bold elegance while reflecting personal milestones during one chapter of her storied journey.

The Legacy of the Pavé Diamond Band from Larry Fortensky: A Symbol of Love in 1991

Elizabeth Taylor’s love for exquisite jewelry is well-documented, and among her storied collection was the pavé diamond band gifted to her by Larry Fortensky. This ring, though understated compared to some of her larger pieces, held deep sentimental value as it symbolized the union and affection shared between Taylor and her seventh husband. Its story offers a glimpse into Taylor’s life during the early 1990s and the significance of this era in her personal journey.

The Design of the Pavé Diamond Band

The pavé diamond band presented by Larry Fortensky in 1991 was a study in elegance and simplicity. Unlike some of the more extravagant pieces in Elizabeth Taylor’s collection, this ring embraced a minimalist aesthetic while still exuding luxury.

Key features of the ring included: – Material: High-quality platinum or white gold base (specific details remain debated among historians). – Diamonds: Encircled with pavé-set diamonds, creating a continuous sparkle around the band. – Craftsmanship: Renowned for its precision and seamless design, reflecting timeless sophistication.

This understated design distinguished itself from Elizabeth’s other jewels that often featured bold gemstones or intricate settings.

The Love Story Behind the Ring

Elizabeth Taylor’s marriage to Larry Fortensky marked an important chapter in her life. The couple met at famed actor Michael Jackson’s Neverland Ranch during rehabilitation treatment—an unconventional backdrop that hinted at their shared vulnerabilities and mutual understanding. They were married on October 6, 1991, at Jackson’s estate in a grand yet private ceremony attended by close friends and family.

The pavé diamond band became not just an emblem of their marital bond but also symbolized Taylor’s enduring belief in love despite multiple publicized heartbreaks throughout her life. While their marriage lasted only five years (they divorced amicably in 1996), this piece remains a cherished reminder of that period.

How This Piece Stands Out Among Her Collection

Feature Pavé Diamond Band Iconic Larger Pieces
Size/Scale Subtle and delicate Large gemstones or ornate designs
Sentimental Value Highly personal Often tied to professional milestones or grand gestures
Style Simplistic elegance Bold statement pieces

This contrast between grandeur and simplicity highlights Taylor’s ability to appreciate beauty across various styles and scales.

A Reflection on Elizabeth Taylor’s Evolving Style

By embracing this elegant yet modest design during her marriage with Fortensky, Elizabeth underscored that jewelry need not always be ostentatious to hold immense value—both emotional and aesthetic. It reflected an evolving perspective toward personal adornment as symbols of intimate connections rather than mere displays of opulence.

Taylor’s choice to wear this band alongside other celebrated jewels demonstrated her philosophy that every piece tells a story. Whether elaborate or minimalistic, each item captured specific moments throughout her extraordinary life journey.

Exploring Elizabeth Taylor’s Jewelry Masterpieces and Their Impact on Hollywood Style

Elizabeth Taylor was not only a celebrated actress but also one of the most renowned jewelry connoisseurs in history. Over the course of her life, her collection grew to include some of the most significant and iconic pieces of fine jewelry ever created. These masterpieces not only reflected her personal life but also set trends that would influence Hollywood style for decades.

Iconic Pieces That Defined Her Collection

  • The Krupp Diamond (33.19 carats): Later renamed “The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond,” this Asscher-cut diamond became one of her signature pieces. Its clarity and brilliance made it an enduring symbol of luxury.
  • La Peregrina Pearl: A 16th-century pearl gifted to her by Richard Burton in 1969. This extraordinary piece was often showcased in a custom Cartier necklace.
  • Cartier Ruby Suite: A set gifted by Mike Todd in 1957 that included a necklace, bracelet, and earrings adorned with rubies and diamonds.
  • The Taj Mahal Diamond: A heart-shaped diamond pendant from the Mughal era that Burton gave to Taylor for her 40th birthday.

These treasures were more than just valuable assets; they represented Taylor’s dynamic relationships, career milestones, and passion for artistry.

The Influence on Hollywood Style

  • Emphasis on Statement Jewelry: Before Elizabeth Taylor, fine jewelry often took a backseat to couture gowns at events. Her oversized gems brought jewelry into sharper focus as a status symbol.
  • Collaborations with Jewelers: Taylor worked closely with brands like Bulgari and Cartier, popularizing their designs among Hollywood elites.
  • Personal Expression Through Jewelry: Each piece she wore often carried personal significance or told a story—a practice now common among celebrities on the red carpet.

Timeline of Significant Acquisitions

Year Piece Acquired Source Notable Details
1 Emerald-cut diamond (29 carats) Mike Todd Marked their whirlwind romance
2 Bulgari brooch Richard Burton Became one of many Bulgari gifts defining their union
3 La Peregrina Pearl Richard Burton Historic pearl with royal lineage
4 The Shah Jahan Necklace Art auction Rare historic creation dating back to India’s Mughal era

Enduring Legacy in Modern Fashion

  1. Many modern stars emulate her use of bold statement pieces during high-profile appearances.
  2. Auction houses continue to use her name as a benchmark when valuing historical or rare gems.
  3. Designers often credit Taylor’s collection as inspiration for creating timeless yet opulent styles.

Through her dazzling collection and penchant for storytelling through jewels, Elizabeth Taylor transcended time—cementing herself as not just an icon of beauty but also as an enduring muse for elegance in Hollywood fashion history.

How Richard Burton Influenced Elizabeth Taylor’s Famous Jewelry Collection

Elizabeth Taylor was not only one of the most celebrated actresses of her time but also a global icon known for her passion for exquisite and extraordinary jewelry. Among the individuals who played a pivotal role in curating her unparalleled collection, Richard Burton stands out as a central figure. Burton, to whom Taylor was married twice, not only gifted her some of the most memorable pieces of her collection but also became synonymous with her legacy as a collector of rare jewels.

The Relationship Between Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor

Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor’s romance was one for the ages—passionate, tumultuous, and deeply intertwined with grand gestures. Their relationship spanned two marriages (1964–1974 and 1975–1976), during which Burton often expressed his affection with lavish jewelry. To him, these gifts were more than material possessions; they were symbols of their intense bond.

Iconic Pieces From Richard Burton

Burton gifted Taylor some of the most famous pieces in jewelry history. These items not only solidified their love story but also enhanced Elizabeth’s reputation as one of Hollywood’s most glamorous women.

  • The Krupp Diamond (Later Known as The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond): In 1968, Burton purchased this stunning 33.19-carat Asscher-cut diamond ring for $305,000 at auction. Renamed “The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond,” it became one of her signature pieces.
  • The La Peregrina Pearl: One of the most famous natural pearls in history, La Peregrina dates back to the 16th century and had once belonged to Spanish royalty. Burton gifted this piece to Taylor in 1969 after acquiring it at auction.
  • The Bulgari Emerald Suite: During their early years together, Burton frequently purchased pieces from Bulgari for Taylor. Most famous among these is an emerald-and-diamond necklace that perfectly complemented an emerald engagement ring he gave her.
Jewelry Piece Details Year Gifted
Krupp Diamond A 33.19-carat Asscher-cut diamond later renamed “The Elizabeth Taylor” 1968
La Peregrina Pearl A historic natural pearl linked to Spanish royalty 1969
Bulgari Emerald Suite Consisted of necklaces, rings, and brooches adorned with emeralds Early 1960s

Impact on Hollywood Style

Richard Burton’s contributions to Elizabeth’s collection had a significant impact on Hollywood glamour during their era. The pieces he selected often reflected boldness and sophistication—qualities that defined both his persona and hers. When Taylor wore these jewels at red-carpet events or film premieres, they instantly became trendsetters.

For instance: – The Krupp Diamond set new standards for large statement rings. – La Peregrina Pearl revived interest in historic jewelry. – Her Bulgari suite elevated colored gemstones into mainstream fashion.

Beyond Material Value

While these treasures carried immense monetary value—often skyrocketing during auctions after Elizabeth’s passing—they symbolized love stories filled with intensity and grandeur. Through these gifts, Richard Burton transformed his personal devotion into timeless works of art that immortalized both their relationship and Hollywood elegance forever.

Richard Burton’s Role in Shaping Elizabeth Taylor’s Legendary Jewelry Collection

Elizabeth Taylor, a name synonymous with glamour and timeless beauty, was not just an iconic actress but also a connoisseur of extraordinary jewelry. While her personal collection reflected a life of opulence and romance, one figure stands out as a defining influence: Richard Burton. Their tempestuous relationship not only dominated headlines during its time but also shaped one of the most remarkable collections of jewelry the world has ever seen. Burton’s role in curating Taylor’s collection is unparalleled, with his taste and affection leaving an indelible mark on her legacy.

The Role of Love in Jewelry Selection

Richard Burton’s devotion to Elizabeth Taylor extended beyond words and gestures. His gifts were intentional, bespoke expressions of their love story. He had an eye for extraordinary pieces, with a penchant for selecting rare gemstones that complemented Taylor’s striking features and vibrant personality.

  • A 33.19-carat Asscher-cut diamond purchased by Burton in 1968 for over $300,000.
  • This dazzling piece became one of her favorite jewels, worn frequently throughout her life.
  • A historic pearl believed to date back to the 16th century.
  • Burton acquired this piece in 1969 for $37,000 at auction and later commissioned Cartier to design it into a necklace surrounded by rubies and diamonds.
  • Comprising necklaces, brooches, and earrings made from vibrant Colombian emeralds paired with diamonds.
  • The first piece—a brooch—was gifted to Taylor during their engagement in Rome while filming Cleopatra (1962).

Richard Burton’s Philosophy on Gift Giving

Burton famously once said: “I introduced her to beer; she introduced me to Bulgari.” His lighthearted remark underscored his appreciation for fine craftsmanship but also acknowledged Elizabeth’s passion for collecting exquisite jewelry. For him, these gifts were more than material possessions—they were tokens of their shared experiences during travels or milestones that marked their dramatic relationship.

How Richard Burton Elevated Hollywood Glamour

Jewelry Piece Estimated Value (USD) Occasion or Significance
Krupp Diamond $8 million Anniversary gift; frequently worn by Taylor
La Peregrina Pearl Necklace $11 million Celebrated Valentine’s Day gift
Bulgari Emerald Brooch $6 million Engagement present

These treasures became more than just accessories—they represented enduring symbols of their passionate connection and marked pivotal moments in Hollywood history.

The Enduring Legacy

Even after their tumultuous relationship ended, the items gifted by Richard Burton remained cornerstones of Elizabeth Taylor’s larger-than-life persona. They reflected not only the richness of her private life but also her status as one of Hollywood’s most glamorous stars whose jewelry collection remains unmatched in both quality and sentimentality.

Their partnership was proof that love can transcend verbal expression through artful craftsmanship—and few epitomized this sentiment quite like the legendary duo of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.