Elizabeth Taylor My Love Affair With Jewelry
There are some people who don't just wear jewelry; they live in it, breathing life and personality into every facet and setting. And then there's Elizabeth Taylor. For Liz, jewelry wasn't just an accessory; it was a love affair, a chronicle of her extraordinary life, a vibrant expression of her boundless spirit. Her collection, a dazzling testament to her passion, is legendary, and diving into its stories feels like stepping into a jewel box filled with a thousand glittering tales.
Think of Elizabeth Taylor and what comes to mind? Violet eyes, of course. Hollywood glamour. Epic romances. And, undeniably, the most breathtaking jewelry you've ever seen. Her pieces weren't merely expensive; they were iconic. Each gem seemed to possess its own unique character, mirroring the multifaceted personality of its owner. It’s no wonder her collection fetched astronomical sums at auction after her passing; these weren’t just rocks, they were memories forged in fire and stone.
The Grand Acquisitions: More Than Just Sparkle
Liz’s love affair with jewelry began early, fueled by a combination of Hollywood’s extravagant culture and the adoring gifts from her husbands, many of whom were equally captivated by her radiance. Her first truly legendary acquisition was the Bvlgari sapphire sautoir, a gift from her second husband, Michael Todd. Imagine: a dazzling cascade of sapphires and diamonds, a necklace so magnificent it could stop traffic.
This wasn't just about a pretty bauble. For Taylor, these pieces were deeply personal. They marked milestones, celebrated triumphs, and sometimes, served as a quiet comfort. The Bvlgari necklace, for instance, was a symbol of their passionate, albeit brief, marriage. It's a reminder that even the most extravagant gifts carry emotional weight. It’s like how a favorite scarf you received from a friend can hold more sentimental value than a designer dress.
Then there was the Bvlgari emerald suite, a wedding gift from Richard Burton. Can you even picture it? The rich, verdant hue of emeralds, a color so deeply associated with life and passion, perfectly complementing Taylor's own vibrant energy. This suite, featuring earrings, a necklace, and a ring, was a testament to Burton's immense love and his desire to adorn his "Cleopatra" with the most exquisite treasures.
It’s fascinating to think about the sheer scale of these gifts. While most of us might receive a nice watch for a milestone, Taylor was being showered with pieces that would make royalty envious. But it wasn't just about the monetary value. It was about the gesture, the thought, the sheer romance of it all. It’s a fun thought experiment: if you were Elizabeth Taylor, what would your ultimate jewelry gift be? For me, it might be something with a deep personal meaning, perhaps a locket with a tiny, handwritten note inside.
The Jewels of La Liz: Unpacking the Icons
Let's talk about some of the absolute showstoppers. The "Elizabeth Taylor Diamond," a stunning 33.19-carat D-flawless Asscher-cut diamond, also a gift from Richard Burton, originally known as the Krupp Diamond. Burton bought it for a reported $1 million in 1968, a fortune at the time! Taylor, ever the pragmatist and show-woman, would later have it recut into a spectacular ring. She famously said, "This ring is to remind me that I am a princess." And who could argue? It's a piece that embodies pure, unadulterated luxury and a touch of fairy tale.
This stone wasn’t just for special occasions; she wore it everywhere. On a boat? Yes. At home? Absolutely. This is the kind of piece that transforms everyday moments into something extraordinary. It reminds me of how my grandmother always wore her wedding ring, a simple band, but it was a constant, comforting presence. Taylor’s diamond was the ultimate comfort, a beacon of her own dazzling existence.
And then there's the La Peregrina pearl. This isn't just any pearl; it's a pear-shaped, natural pearl, historically significant and absolutely breathtaking. Discovered in the 16th century, it graced the Spanish royal family before finding its way into Richard Burton's hands, who bought it for $37,000 in 1969. He presented it to Taylor on a diamond and pearl necklace. Imagine this exquisite pearl, famously worn by royalty for centuries, now gracing the décolletage of Hollywood's queen.
The history of La Peregrina is incredible. It's been owned by kings and queens, a true testament to its rarity and beauty. Taylor’s choice to wear it on a diamond necklace, rather than a more traditional setting, speaks to her daring style. It’s like taking a vintage piece and giving it a modern twist. Think of how we love to pair an antique brooch with a contemporary outfit – it’s that kind of stylish fusion.
Her collection also boasted incredible Rubies. Bvlgari, again, was a significant source of her ruby treasures. The vivid red of rubies symbolizes passion, love, and vitality, all qualities that Elizabeth Taylor possessed in spades. She had a magnificent ruby necklace, a wedding gift from Burton, that was a true masterpiece. It was a cascade of cabochon rubies surrounded by diamonds, a breathtaking display of color and brilliance. It’s like a perfectly ripe strawberry dipped in moonlight – utterly irresistible.
Rubies are often associated with protection and energy. For Taylor, perhaps they were a powerful talisman, a vibrant shield of confidence. It’s a good reminder that gemstones aren't just about aesthetics; they’ve carried symbolic meaning for centuries. Wearing a ruby today can feel like tapping into that ancient energy. Maybe it’s time to add a little pop of ruby red to my wardrobe!
Beyond the Bling: The Storyteller Within
What made Taylor's relationship with her jewelry so compelling was that she didn't just accumulate it; she lived with it. These weren't pieces locked away in a vault. She wore them, she loved them, and she shared their stories. When she spoke about her collection, it was with the same warmth and enthusiasm she reserved for her acting roles or her beloved animals.
Her jewelry was a conversation starter, a way to connect with people. Imagine attending a party and seeing her arrive, adorned in a piece with a history stretching back centuries. It’s like a walking museum exhibit, but one with a pulse and a personality. It’s a lesson in how to imbue everyday objects with our own narratives.
Consider the Bvlgari diamond tiara, another spectacular gift from Richard Burton. Tiaras are the ultimate symbol of royalty and grandeur. Taylor wore it with such natural elegance, making it look less like a costume piece and more like an organic extension of her regal presence. It’s a reminder that confidence is the best accessory, and with it, even the most extravagant items can feel grounded.
This also highlights the fact that, despite the immense wealth, Taylor had a playful side. She wasn't afraid to embrace the theatricality of jewelry. It’s like seeing a favorite actress in a dramatic role – you appreciate the skill, the performance, and the sheer enjoyment of it all. Her jewelry choices were a performance, a celebration of life's grand gestures.
Practical Glamour: Tips from the Queen of Sparkle
While we might not all be acquiring million-dollar diamonds, we can certainly take inspiration from Elizabeth Taylor's approach to jewelry. Here are a few takeaways:
- Invest in what you love: Taylor didn't just buy expensive things; she bought things that resonated with her. Whether it's a classic pearl necklace, a bold statement ring, or a pair of quirky earrings, choose pieces that speak to your soul.
- Give your jewelry a story: Don't be afraid to tell people where you got a piece, who gave it to you, or why it's special. This imbues your jewelry with meaning and creates a connection. Even a quirky souvenir from a trip can become a treasured talking point.
- Wear your treasures: Unless it's an extremely valuable heirloom you're specifically preserving, don't let your beautiful jewelry sit in a box. Wear it! Let it add a touch of sparkle to your everyday life. That little bracelet you adore? Wear it to the grocery store. Why not?
- Mix and match: Taylor wasn’t afraid to juxtapose different styles and eras. Don't be afraid to pair vintage pieces with modern ones, or to mix metals. It’s all about creating a look that feels uniquely you.
- Consider the symbolism: Gemstones have carried meanings for centuries. While it's not essential, choosing a gem that resonates with your personality or a particular intention can add another layer of appreciation.
Think about your own jewelry box. What are the pieces that you reach for instinctively? Are they the most expensive, or the ones with the most sentimental value? Often, it's a blend. My grandmother’s simple silver locket, a gift from my grandfather, is far more precious to me than any designer piece.
A Legacy of Luminescence
Elizabeth Taylor's jewelry collection was more than just a display of wealth; it was a reflection of her life, her loves, and her indomitable spirit. Each piece told a story, a chapter in her remarkable journey. From the dazzling diamonds that marked her cinematic triumphs to the vibrant gemstones that adorned her during her passionate romances, her jewelry was an integral part of her narrative.
When her collection went up for auction at Christie's in 2011, the world got a glimpse into the heart of this legendary woman. The sale broke records, proving that the allure of these magnificent jewels, and the woman who wore them, was as potent as ever. It was a final, dazzling curtain call for a collection that had shone so brightly for so long.
The sheer brilliance of her collection is undeniable. It’s a reminder of a bygone era of Hollywood glamour, but also a testament to the enduring power of personal adornment and the stories that jewelry can hold. It’s a testament to the idea that beauty, whether in the form of a perfectly cut diamond or a simple sentiment, can illuminate our lives.
In the end, Elizabeth Taylor's love affair with jewelry serves as a beautiful metaphor for how we can all infuse our lives with a little more sparkle. It’s about finding joy in the things we cherish, imbuing them with our own stories, and allowing them to shine, just like the legendary La Liz herself. So the next time you reach for your favorite necklace or pair of earrings, remember the Queen of Sparkle and add a little extra flair to your day. After all, life's too short not to wear your most fabulous pieces.