Actress Elizabeth Taylor was known for many things; her successful acting career, her many high profile marriages, her philanthropic work especially relating to AIDS and of course, her larger than life jewelry collection. Upon her passing last week, there has been much speculation as to what would become of the iconic pieces and today it seems that the glamorous collection will soon be seen on the auction block at Christie’s. The collection, which has been estimated at $150 million, showcases Taylor’s long penchant for colored stones and of course her love of diamonds. With her own jewelry line, which was aptly titled House of Taylor, the actress was able to create many pieces that showcased her love for all things sparkly. Some of the staple pieces that stood out in her own collection were the 69-carat pear shaped diamond necklace, which quickly became named the Taylor Burton diamond, the 33-carat Krupp Asscher-cut diamond ring and the diamond tiara that she fashionably wore to the Academy Awards.
Taylor’s wasn’t the only famous actress with a high profile jewelry collection. Screen legend, Gloria Swanson, who was known as the highest paid actress in Hollywood during the 1920s, is having her infamous 5.1 carat diamond ring auctioned off at the Christie’s Paris May 23rd auction. It was often speculated that Swanson’s annual jewelry budget ranged upwards of $500,000. Before Swanson’s famous diamond ring takes center stage, Christie’s New York is having their annual Magnificent Jewels auction on April 12th that will feature some remarkable, one-of-a-kind pieces. One such item is the 10 carat cushion-cut purple pink diamond ring, which is estimated to sell between $12 – $15 million, that is set in 18-karat rose gold and platinum and is flanked by two cushion-cut diamonds. Also featured is a vintage Cartier diamond and onyx bracelet that represents the Art Deco era. Since the trend of is “going green” has taken over the world of jewelry, the auction will also feature a suite of diamond and emerald Van Cleef & Arpels baubles, including a pair of diamond and emerald earrings, a diamond and emerald pendant brooch and a diamond and emerald necklace.
With such great auctions scheduled over the next few months, there is a great deal of fabulous jewels for sale. Will you channel your inner Elizabeth Taylor or Gloria Swanson and partake in purchasing some great pieces for your collection?
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