What Happened to Elizabeth Taylors Diamond Ring
What Happened to Elizabeth Taylors Diamond Ring
When people hear the name Elizabeth Taylor, they often think of glamour, talent, and of course, the famous diamond ring that seemed to encapsulate her larger-than-life persona. This particular piece of jewelry, a 33.19-carat Asscher-cut beauty known as the Taylor-Burton Diamond, has a story as intriguing as the actress herself.
The diamond was originally bought at an auction in 1969 by Richard Burton, Taylor's two-time husband and the love of her life, who had a flair for grand gestures. It became more than just a ring—it was a symbol of their tumultuous and passionate relationship. I remember reading about how people used to joke that the diamond had so much star power, it needed its own entourage just to be moved from one place to another. This ring wasn't just an accessory; it was a public spectacle.
In terms of craftsmanship, the diamond is remarkable. It was cut from an original rough diamond of 241 carats discovered in South Africa. The final product is a testament to the skill involved in transforming raw beauty into something jaw-droppingly magnificent. In the countless photographs snapped by the paparazzi, the diamond seemed to glow almost as luminously as Elizabeth herself. It was the ultimate conversation starter, whether at a red-carpet event or a simple dinner party.
However, like many things from our past, the ring's journey took a different turn after Elizabeth and Richard's second marriage ended. In 1978, divesting herself of emotional baggage—or perhaps making a savvy financial decision—Taylor decided to auction off the ring. She didn't hold on to it like a relic of love lost, but rather, used it as a vehicle to support her passions. The ring sold for an eye-watering sum of $5 million, which went towards building a hospital in Botswana.
Thinking about this, I find myself touched by the idea that something as seemingly materialistic as a diamond ring could have such a profound impact on people's lives. My grandmother once had a brooch that she passed down through the family, and while it wasn't worth millions, its sentimental value made it feel just as precious. It's funny how certain objects—even ones defined by their opulence—can bridge gaps between past and future, sentiment and practicality.
Today, the Taylor-Burton Diamond has disappeared into a vault of some private collector, a quiet chapter following its very public life. But that's the thing about iconic pieces: even when hidden from view, they continue to ignite the imagination. It serves as a reminder that the true value of such a gem lies not just in the sparkle it adds to one's finger, but in the stories it tells—or the stories we tell about it. As I finish this thought, I can't help but wonder what stories will arise next from this solitary diamond that lived so many lives in one.
