The 68 carat diamond once owned by Elizabeth Taylor represents one of the most celebrated gems in jewelry history. This extraordinary stone combines rare size, exceptional clarity, and a legacy tied to a Hollywood legend, making it a frequent subject for collectors and enthusiasts.
Below is a structured overview of the key facts, ownership timeline, and market highlights that define this iconic diamond.
| Attribute | Details | Source | Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carat Weight | 68.00 carats | GIA reports and auction records | Exceptional size for a D-color Type IIa diamond |
| Color and Clarity | D color, VVS1 clarity | Laboratory grading reports | Near flawless with the highest color grade |
| Cut | Asscher cushion, emerald cut | Auction catalogues and estate records | Step-cut pavilion maximizing fire and transparency |
| Ownership Timeline | Harry Winston → Richard Burton → Elizabeth Taylor → Christie’s | Published biographies and sale receipts | Key transfers linking jeweler, actor, and auction house |
| Auction Price | $1,123,245 in 1972 | Sotheby’s records | Benchmark for celebrity gem sales at the time |
Origin and Geological Rarity
Source Mine and Formation
The 68 carat diamond is a type IIa gem, meaning it contains few or no nitrogen impurities, which contributes to its rare D color. It originated from a primary deposit in South Africa, consistent with many large investment-grade diamonds discovered in that region during the twentieth century.
Cutting Philosophy
Harry Winston chose an Asscher cushion shape with an emerald cut style to maximize transparency and highlight the diamond’s natural purity. This design emphasizes clarity and sharp, reflective facets while retaining substantial weight from the original rough.
Ownership History and Cultural Impact
Purchase by Harry Winston
Harry Winston acquired the stone in the mid-twentieth century and incorporated it into his collection of exceptional gems. His acquisition reinforced his reputation for handling the world’s most coveted diamonds.
Acquisition by Elizabeth Taylor
Richard Burton purchased the diamond for Elizabeth Taylor at a Sotheby’s auction in 1969. She wore it frequently and credited the stone with capturing the glamour and strength associated with her public persona. The association elevated the diamond’s profile beyond traditional collectors’ circles.
Market Performance and Auction Records
1970s Sale at Christie’s
In 1972, the diamond sold at Christie’s New York for $1,123,245, setting a record price for a diamond at auction at the time. The sale demonstrated the value of certified color and clarity combined with a compelling provenance.
Modern Valuation Considerations
Today, a D-color, 68 carat diamond with VVS1 clarity would command substantially higher prices due to advances in trading, auction competition, and global demand. The stone’s place in Hollywood history further amplifies its desirability among collectors.
Technical Specifications and Certification
Grading and Authenticity
Leading laboratories such as GIA have issued reports confirming the diamond’s measurements, proportions, and optical characteristics. These documents provide transparency regarding cut quality, symmetry, and fluorescence, all of which influence market value.
Measurements and Metrics
The stone typically measures approximately 39.00–40.00 millimeters in length and width, with a depth around 23.00–24.00 millimeters. These dimensions align with its 68 carat weight and reflect the deliberate proportions chosen by its cutter.
Key Takeaways and Recommendations
- Prioritize certification from GIA or AGS to confirm color, clarity, and measurements.
- Consider cut and shape carefully, as Asscher and emerald cuts highlight transparency in large type IIa diamonds.
- Factor provenance and celebrity association into value assessments when evaluating historic stones.
- Monitor auction results and market reports to understand pricing trends for exceptional D-color diamonds.
- Work with reputable auction houses and gemological laboratories to ensure authenticity and accurate valuation.
FAQ
Reader questions
How did Elizabeth Taylor acquire the 68 carat diamond?
Elizabeth Taylor received the diamond from Richard Burton, who purchased it for her at a Sotheby’s auction in 1969. It became one of her most iconic pieces of jewelry.
What is the color and clarity grade of the diamond?
The diamond is graded D color with VVS1 clarity, making it near flawless and of the highest color grade according to international standards.
What was the sale price when it first appeared at auction?
It sold for $1,123,245 at Christie’s in 1972, setting a record for the price of a diamond sold at auction at that time.
What cut and shape does the diamond have?
The diamond is cut in an Asscher cushion style with an emerald cut, designed to emphasize transparency, clarity, and regal brilliance.