Taylor-Burton Diamond

Taylor-Burton Diamond. The Taylor-Burton Diamond is a pear-shaped diamond weighing 69.42 carats, purchased by Richard Burton for his wife Elizabeth Taylor in 1969. This diamond was cut by Harry Winston from a 240.80-carat rough diamond found in South Africa. The diamond was later sold at an auction held by Christie's in 1978, after Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton's divorce, with proceeds going to Botswana and other African charities.

Introduction

The Taylor-Burton Diamond is one of the most famous diamonds in the world, known for its exceptional size, cut, and clarity. It was purchased by Richard Burton for $1.1 million, a significant amount at the time, and was considered one of the most expensive jewelry purchases ever made. The diamond was a symbol of the love and wealth of Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, who were one of the most famous Hollywood couples of their time, starring together in films like Cleopatra and The Taming of the Shrew. The couple's relationship was closely followed by the media, with Paparazzi like Ron Galella constantly trying to get a shot of them.

History

The Taylor-Burton Diamond was found in the Premier Mine in South Africa in 1966, and was later cut by Harry Winston into a pear-shaped diamond weighing 69.42 carats. The diamond was initially named the "Cartier Diamond" after the Cartier jewelry company, which purchased the diamond from Harry Winston. However, after Richard Burton purchased the diamond for Elizabeth Taylor, it became known as the Taylor-Burton Diamond. The diamond was insured by Lloyd's of London and was considered one of the most valuable jewelry pieces in the world, alongside other famous diamonds like the Hope Diamond and the Cullinan Diamond. The diamond was also admired by other celebrities, including Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis and Aristotle Onassis.

Characteristics

The Taylor-Burton Diamond is a colorless diamond with an internally flawless clarity, making it one of the rarest and most valuable diamonds in the world. The diamond is cut into a pear shape, which gives it a unique and elegant appearance. The diamond is set in a necklace designed by Harry Winston, which features a platinum chain and a diamond-encrusted clasp. The diamond has been certified by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the International Gemological Institute (IGI), and is considered one of the most valuable diamonds in the world, alongside other famous diamonds like the Orlov Diamond and the Regent Diamond. The diamond has also been admired by jewelry experts, including Tiffany & Co. and Van Cleef & Arpels.

Ownership

The Taylor-Burton Diamond was owned by Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton from 1969 to 1978, during which time it was considered one of the most famous and valuable jewelry pieces in the world. After the couple's divorce, the diamond was sold at an auction held by Christie's in 1978, where it was purchased by Robert Kenmore for $5 million. The diamond is currently owned by Robert Mouawad, a Lebanese businessman and jewelry collector, who purchased the diamond in 1980. The diamond has also been owned by other collectors, including Doris Duke and Barbara Hutton.

Public Appearances

The Taylor-Burton Diamond has made several public appearances over the years, including at red carpet events like the Academy Awards and the Golden Globes. The diamond was also featured in several photography shoots, including a famous shoot with Vogue magazine in 1970. The diamond has also been exhibited at several museums, including the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the American Museum of Natural History. The diamond has also been seen at other events, including the Met Gala and the Cannes Film Festival, and has been admired by other celebrities, including Elton John and David Bowie. The diamond has also been featured in several books and documentaries, including The Diamond and The History of Jewelry. Category:Diamonds