The Enigmatic Fate of Elizabeth Taylor's Legendary "Rock"
Elizabeth Taylor was a woman of extraordinary talent, undeniable glamour, and a penchant for spectacular jewelry. Among her most iconic possessions was the magnificent 69-carat diamond ring, famously dubbed "The Taylor-Burton Diamond." This colossal gem, a pear-shaped D-flawless diamond, captivated the world and sparked enduring curiosity about its current whereabouts and ownership. For decades, the question has echoed: Who owns Elizabeth Taylor's 69 carat diamond ring?
The Ring's Storied Past: A Tale of Love and Acquisition
The journey of this remarkable diamond begins with its discovery. Mined in South Africa by Harry Oppenheimer, chairman of De Beers, the rough diamond weighed an astonishing 244 carats. It was cut and polished into a breathtaking, shield-shaped stone of 68.8 carats by Harry Winston. The diamond was first put up for auction in 1966, but failed to sell.
Its true destiny, however, was intertwined with the legendary romance between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. In 1968, Hollywood's most tempestuous couple was on the cusp of divorce. To reconcile, Richard Burton famously purchased the 68.8-carat diamond for a staggering $1.1 million (a sum equivalent to over $8 million today) from Cartier. He then gifted it to Elizabeth on her 37th birthday. This was the moment the diamond became indelibly linked to her name, and it was subsequently recut by Cartier into its now-famous pear shape, increasing its carat weight slightly to 69.42 carats to remove inclusions and improve its brilliance. Elizabeth, however, always referred to it as her "69-carat diamond."
The ring was not just a symbol of Burton's affection; it became a signature piece for Taylor. She wore it frequently, and its presence added to her larger-than-life persona. The diamond was insured for $5 million, a testament to its immense value and significance.
The Ring's Journey After Elizabeth Taylor
Following Elizabeth Taylor's passing in 2011, her extensive jewelry collection, including the 69-carat diamond ring, was put up for auction at Christie's in New York City in December 2011. The auction was a monumental event, attracting collectors and enthusiasts from around the globe. The proceeds from the sale were dedicated to the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation.
The 69-carat diamond ring, the star lot of the auction, was expected to fetch between $2.5 and $3.5 million. However, the bidding war was fierce and pushed the final sale price significantly higher.
The Current Owner: A Mystery Shrouded in Secrecy
The question of who ultimately purchased Elizabeth Taylor's 69-carat diamond ring at the 2011 Christie's auction remains a subject of considerable interest. While the auction house confirmed the sale, the identity of the buyer was never publicly disclosed. This is not uncommon in the world of high-value auctions, where privacy is often a paramount concern for wealthy collectors.
Therefore, to answer the question directly: The specific identity of the individual or entity who currently owns Elizabeth Taylor's 69-carat diamond ring is not publicly known. The diamond was sold as part of her estate, and the buyer chose to remain anonymous.
It is possible that the diamond has been acquired by a private collector who wishes to keep its ownership discreet. Alternatively, it could be held by a trust or corporation. Without any official announcements from the buyer or the auction house, any speculation about its current owner is just that – speculation.
The Enduring Legacy of the Taylor-Burton Diamond
Regardless of its current owner, the 69-carat diamond ring remains an icon of jewelry history and a potent symbol of a legendary Hollywood romance. It represents not only immense wealth but also a captivating story of love, passion, and one of the most famous celebrity acquisitions of all time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much was Elizabeth Taylor's 69-carat diamond ring originally purchased for?
Richard Burton originally purchased the diamond for $1.1 million in 1968. After being recut by Cartier, it became the legendary 69-carat ring.
Why is Elizabeth Taylor's 69-carat diamond ring so famous?
The ring is famous for its extraordinary size and brilliance, its association with the iconic Hollywood couple Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, and the dramatic story of its purchase and gifting. It became a symbol of their passionate, albeit tumultuous, relationship.
How much did the 69-carat diamond ring sell for at auction?
The 69-carat diamond ring sold for $8.8 million at the Christie's auction in December 2011. This was significantly higher than its pre-sale estimates.
Where was the 69-carat diamond ring mined?
The diamond that eventually became Elizabeth Taylor's 69-carat ring was originally mined in South Africa.
