The Legendary Diamond and Its Lasting Legacy
The name Elizabeth Taylor is synonymous with Hollywood glamour, a captivating on-screen presence, and an unparalleled collection of exquisite jewelry. Among her many prized possessions, one piece stands out for its sheer size and breathtaking beauty: the 69-carat diamond ring. This magnificent gem, officially known as the Krupp Diamond, has a fascinating history that continues to intrigue jewelry enthusiasts and fans of the iconic actress. So, the burning question remains: who has Elizabeth Taylor's 69-carat diamond ring now?
The Origin Story: A Gift from Richard Burton
The 69-carat diamond, a colorless, rectangular-cut stone of exceptional clarity, was a gift from the legendary Welsh actor Richard Burton to Elizabeth Taylor in 1968. Burton purchased the diamond for a staggering $1.1 million, a colossal sum at the time, and it quickly became one of Taylor's most cherished and recognizable pieces. She adored the diamond so much that she often wore it as a pendant, even having it mounted in a necklace so she could enjoy its sparkle constantly. She affectionately nicknamed it the "Elizabeth Taylor Diamond" or "Liz's Bling."
A Symbol of Love and Grandeur
For Elizabeth Taylor, the 69-carat diamond was more than just an incredibly valuable gemstone; it was a symbol of her passionate and often tumultuous relationship with Richard Burton. They married twice, and their love story was as dramatic and captivating as any film they starred in. The diamond represented the immense love and extravagant gestures that characterized their union.
The Diamond's Journey After Taylor's Passing
When Elizabeth Taylor passed away in March 2011 at the age of 79, her unparalleled jewelry collection was put up for auction. The sale, held at Christie's in New York City in December 2011, was a global event, drawing intense interest from collectors and admirers worldwide. The auction of her jewelry, including the famous 69-carat diamond, was one of the most significant jewelry auctions in history.
The Identity of the Buyer
The 69-carat Krupp Diamond was one of the standout lots at the Christie's auction. It sold for a staggering $8.8 million, a record-breaking price for a colorless diamond at the time. The identity of the anonymous buyer was not immediately revealed. However, reports and subsequent information have indicated that the diamond was acquired by a private collector from the Middle East. This collector chose to remain anonymous, respecting the privacy of such a significant acquisition.
The Diamond's Current Status
While the exact whereabouts of the "Elizabeth Taylor Diamond" are not publicly disclosed, it is understood to be in the private collection of the individual who purchased it at the 2011 auction. It is highly unlikely that the diamond is on public display. Such historically significant and immensely valuable gemstones are typically kept in secure private collections by their owners.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How much was Elizabeth Taylor's 69 carat diamond ring originally purchased for?
Richard Burton purchased the 69-carat Krupp Diamond for Elizabeth Taylor in 1968 for approximately $1.1 million. This was an astronomical sum for a diamond at that time.
Why did Elizabeth Taylor call the diamond the "Elizabeth Taylor Diamond"?
She affectionately nicknamed it the "Elizabeth Taylor Diamond" or "Liz's Bling" because it was her favorite piece and a symbol of her life and love, particularly her relationship with Richard Burton. She wore it frequently and made it an iconic part of her public image.
How much did the 69 carat diamond ring sell for at auction?
The 69-carat Krupp Diamond sold at Christie's auction in December 2011 for $8.8 million, setting a record for a colorless diamond at the time.
Who is the current owner of Elizabeth Taylor's 69 carat diamond ring?
The current owner is an anonymous private collector from the Middle East who purchased the diamond at the 2011 auction. Their identity has not been publicly revealed.
