Elizabeth Taylor’s Many Spectacular Engagement Rings
In the realm of Hollywood glamour and timeless romance, few names shine as brightly as Elizabeth Taylor. Her life was a tapestry woven with dazzling jewels, passionate love affairs, and iconic moments. Among the many treasures that adorned her legendary persona, one gem stands out with its own remarkable story – her illustrious engagement ring. Let's delve into the captivating history behind Elizabeth Taylor's iconic piece of jewelry.
The Jewel:
The focal point of this captivating tale is a breathtaking diamond known as the Krupp Diamond, named after its previous owner, Vera Krupp. This magnificent gem, originally weighing 33.19 carats, possessed a rare purity and brilliance that captured the imagination of all who beheld it.
Richard Burton's Declaration of Love:
In the spring of 1968, the world was abuzz with news of Elizabeth Taylor's romance with the dashing Welsh actor, Richard Burton. Their passionate love affair transcended the silver screen and captivated audiences worldwide. It was against this backdrop of intense emotion that Burton decided to declare his love for Taylor in the most extravagant and enduring manner – with the gift of the Krupp Diamond.
The Proposal:
Legend has it that Richard Burton presented the Krupp Diamond to Elizabeth Taylor on a yacht in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting its golden hues upon the waves, Burton dropped to one knee and professed his undying love. With tears of joy and disbelief glistening in her eyes, Taylor accepted his proposal, sealing their bond with the radiant sparkle of the Krupp Diamond.
The Transformation:
Elizabeth Taylor's engagement ring underwent a remarkable transformation under the skilled hands of renowned jeweler, Cartier. The Krupp Diamond was reset into an exquisite platinum mounting, flanked by two baguette-cut diamonds. The result was a stunning masterpiece that accentuated the diamond's natural beauty and Taylor's unparalleled elegance.
The Legacy:
Throughout their tempestuous relationship, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton exchanged vows, parted ways, and reunited time and again. Despite the turbulence that characterized their love story, the Krupp Diamond remained a steadfast symbol of their enduring affection. Even after their final separation, Taylor chose to retain possession of the ring as a cherished memento of the love they once shared.
The Auction:
In December 2011, the world bid a bittersweet farewell to Elizabeth Taylor's cherished possessions as Christie's auction house presented "The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor" to the public. Among the dazzling array of jewels, art, and memorabilia, the Krupp Diamond stood out as one of the most coveted treasures. After a fierce bidding war, the legendary gem found a new home, fetching a staggering price of $8.8 million.
The story of Elizabeth Taylor's engagement ring transcends mere materialism; it is a testament to the enduring power of love, passion, and romance. From its origins as the Krupp Diamond to its transformation into a symbol of one of Hollywood's greatest love stories, this remarkable jewel continues to captivate hearts and minds around the world. As we admire its radiant beauty, let us also celebrate the timeless legacy of Elizabeth Taylor – a woman who lived her life with unparalleled grace, glamour, and indomitable spirit.
The Jewel:
The focal point of this captivating tale is a breathtaking diamond known as the Krupp Diamond, named after its previous owner, Vera Krupp. This magnificent gem, originally weighing 33.19 carats, possessed a rare purity and brilliance that captured the imagination of all who beheld it.
Richard Burton's Declaration of Love:
In the spring of 1968, the world was abuzz with news of Elizabeth Taylor's romance with the dashing Welsh actor, Richard Burton. Their passionate love affair transcended the silver screen and captivated audiences worldwide. It was against this backdrop of intense emotion that Burton decided to declare his love for Taylor in the most extravagant and enduring manner – with the gift of the Krupp Diamond.
The Proposal:
Legend has it that Richard Burton presented the Krupp Diamond to Elizabeth Taylor on a yacht in the middle of the Mediterranean Sea. As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting its golden hues upon the waves, Burton dropped to one knee and professed his undying love. With tears of joy and disbelief glistening in her eyes, Taylor accepted his proposal, sealing their bond with the radiant sparkle of the Krupp Diamond.
The Transformation:
Elizabeth Taylor's engagement ring underwent a remarkable transformation under the skilled hands of renowned jeweler, Cartier. The Krupp Diamond was reset into an exquisite platinum mounting, flanked by two baguette-cut diamonds. The result was a stunning masterpiece that accentuated the diamond's natural beauty and Taylor's unparalleled elegance.
The Legacy:
Throughout their tempestuous relationship, Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton exchanged vows, parted ways, and reunited time and again. Despite the turbulence that characterized their love story, the Krupp Diamond remained a steadfast symbol of their enduring affection. Even after their final separation, Taylor chose to retain possession of the ring as a cherished memento of the love they once shared.
The Auction:
In December 2011, the world bid a bittersweet farewell to Elizabeth Taylor's cherished possessions as Christie's auction house presented "The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor" to the public. Among the dazzling array of jewels, art, and memorabilia, the Krupp Diamond stood out as one of the most coveted treasures. After a fierce bidding war, the legendary gem found a new home, fetching a staggering price of $8.8 million.
The story of Elizabeth Taylor's engagement ring transcends mere materialism; it is a testament to the enduring power of love, passion, and romance. From its origins as the Krupp Diamond to its transformation into a symbol of one of Hollywood's greatest love stories, this remarkable jewel continues to captivate hearts and minds around the world. As we admire its radiant beauty, let us also celebrate the timeless legacy of Elizabeth Taylor – a woman who lived her life with unparalleled grace, glamour, and indomitable spirit.