The Most Iconic Jewelry Pieces in Hollywood History
A Journey Through Time and Sparkles: Legendary Film Jewels
Hollywood has consistently represented glamour, style, and elegance. Throughout the years, numerous stunning jewelry pieces have graced both the big screen and red carpets, leaving an unforgettable impression on fashion and pop culture. In this article, we will delve into the most iconic Hollywood jewelry pieces, which persistently captivate and inspire generations.
The Heart of the Ocean Necklace from Titanic
When it comes to iconic Hollywood jewelry, the Heart of the Ocean necklace worn by Kate Winslet in the 1997 film Titanic is hard to surpass. This stunning piece featured a large blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, set in a platinum necklace. Designed by Harry Winston, the necklace became an emblem of the film’s tragic love story and an instant classic.
Audrey Hepburn’s Diamonds in Breakfast at Tiffany’s
Audrey Hepburn’s role as Holly Golightly in the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany’s is one of her most memorable performances. The opening scene, featuring Hepburn adorned in pearls and a dazzling Tiffany & Co. diamond necklace, is pure Hollywood magic. Designed by Jean Schlumberger, the exquisite necklace perfectly captured the elegance and sophistication of the character and the era.
Elizabeth Taylor’s Taylor-Burton Diamond
The Taylor-Burton Diamond, a 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond, was a symbol of the passionate and tumultuous love story between Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton. Purchased by Burton in 1969, the diamond became one of the most famous gems in Hollywood history. Taylor later had the diamond set into a platinum necklace, which she famously wore to the 1970 Academy Awards.
Marilyn Monroe’s Moon of Baroda Diamond Necklace
Marilyn Monroe was known for her love of diamonds, and the Moon of Baroda necklace she wore in the film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes is no exception. The 24.04-carat pear-shaped, canary-yellow diamond necklace was originally owned by the Maharajas of Baroda, India. The necklace’s appearance in the film, coupled with Monroe’s iconic performance of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” helped to solidify its status as a legendary Hollywood jewelry piece.
The Cartier Panther Bracelet in The Pink Panther
The 1963 film The Pink Panther introduced audiences to one of the most famous pieces of jewelry in cinema history: the Cartier Panther bracelet. The exquisite diamond and onyx bracelet, featuring a panther encircling a large pink diamond, became a symbol of elegance and mystery. Cartier’s iconic panther motif has since become synonymous with the luxury brand.
The Pretty Woman Necklace
In the 1990 film Pretty Woman, Julia Roberts’ character Vivian wears a stunning ruby and diamond necklace during a pivotal scene. Designed by French jeweler Fred Joaillier, the necklace features 23 pear-shaped rubies set in heart-shaped motifs, each surrounded by diamonds. The necklace’s appearance in the film not only cemented its place in Hollywood history but also sparked a renewed interest in rubies.
The Duchess of Windsor’s Cartier Flamingo Brooch
The Duchess of Windsor, Wallis Simpson, was known for her extravagant taste in jewelry. One of her most famous pieces was the Cartier Flamingo brooch, designed in 1940 by Jeanne Toussaint. The brooch, made of gold, diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds, was a testament to the duchess’s bold and daring sense of style. The Flamingo brooch has since become a symbol of high-fashion and an iconic piece of Hollywood history.
Grace Kelly’s Engagement Ring
When Prince Rainier III of Monaco proposed to Grace Kelly, he presented her with a magnificent 10.47-carat emerald-cut diamond engagement ring. The ring, designed by Cartier, featured two baguette-cut diamonds flanking the central stone. The timeless elegance of Kelly’s engagement ring has made it one of the most iconic and admired pieces of jewelry in Hollywood history.
Angelina Jolie’s Emerald Earrings at the 2009 Oscars
At the 2009 Academy Awards, Angelina Jolie turned heads with her stunning Lorraine Schwartz emerald drop earrings. The bold, 115-carat earrings perfectly complemented her black Elie Saab gown, making a lasting impression on the red carpet. Jolie’s choice of emerald earrings sparked a trend in colored gemstone jewelry and remains a memorable Hollywood jewelry moment.
Lady Gaga’s Tiffany Yellow Diamond Necklace at the 2019 Oscars
In the 2019 Oscars, Lady Gaga wore the legendary Tiffany Yellow Diamond necklace. This 128.54-carat cushion-cut yellow diamond is surrounded by white diamonds. Tiffany & Co. created the necklace, last worn by Audrey Hepburn for Breakfast at Tiffany’s promotions. Gaga’s red carpet appearance solidified the necklace’s Hollywood history.
Iconic jewelry pieces captivate us with their allure and glamour. These works of art showcase the talent of designers and craftsmen. They also offer glimpses into Hollywood’s Golden Age. Their stories make them enduring pop culture elements, reflecting timeless style.