Gold Charm Bracelet. It was difficult to pick just one charm bracelet (see last weeks post) as Taylor’s charm bracelets were a signature part of her style, and are therefore extremely special and valuable. The rose gold open-link bracelet holds ten – very unique – antique fobs.

Art Deco Gold and Sapphire Evening Bag. This Art Deco mesh gold evening bag still feels modern today. The tassel is articulated with seed pearl terminals and the sculpted frame is set with a cabachon sapphire pushpiece. There is a hidden compartment inside the bag that suspends an oval shaped mirror powder case – one that Taylor must have used several times over the years.

Gold Coin Bracelet. The 18k gold chain is what makes this bracelet particularly special. The intricate design on the chain – which is mounted in gold – elevates it from a typical chain link bracelet. The over-sized Mexican gold coin charm evokes Taylor’s motto: “More is more.”

Emerald, Ruby and Diamond Ear Pendants. Each earring suspends a detachable emerald bead tassel, with cabochon ruby and circular cut diamond detail and scalloped surmount. The rich colors, particularly emerald, were also part of Taylor’s signature style.

A Diamond and Gold “Darling” Bracelet. This bracelet is classic Taylor: Sentimental, beautiful, and covered in diamonds. Single cut diamond letters spell out the word ‘darling’ inside this gold double chain bracelet; One would imagine that it was a gift from one of her many adoring husbands.

]]> http://www.mrkstyle.com/2011/12/elizabeth-taylors-jewels-at-christies-part-2/feed/ 0 http://www.mrkstyle.com/2011/11/elizabeth-taylors-jewels-at-christies-part-1/ http://www.mrkstyle.com/2011/11/elizabeth-taylors-jewels-at-christies-part-1/#comments Fri, 18 Nov 2011 14:13:58 +0000 RodKosann http://www.mrkstyle.com/?p=15266 Elizabeth Taylor’s jewelry collection is one that needs little introduction. In a few weeks, on December 13th, the first part of Taylor’s collection will go up for auction at Christie’s. It is one the most highly anticipated jewelry auctions in recent history. While it is hard to chose a selection of pieces from what is perhaps the most famous collection of all-time, we have selected a few of her most prized jewels to showcase in today’s column. Tune in next week for the second part of our feature.

Gold and Multi-Gem Charm Bracelet. Elizabeth had several charm bracelets in her collection. Given her history, the story behind each charm is intriguing. This bracelet contains everything from an enamel chalet inscribed with ‘Happy Anniversary, 1971, Love, Raymond” to a Scorpio Pendant and an Evil Eye.

Bvlgari Emerald and Diamond Necklace. Bvlgari Emerald and Diamond Earrings. This Emerald set – given to her by Richard Burton – is probably one of the most recognizable of Taylor’s pieces. Green was famously her color. The necklace is made up of sixteen square and rectangular cut emeralds, while the earrings are pear shaped emeralds. Both pieces are surrounded in clusters of diamonds.

The Michael Jackson Diamond Bracelet. It’s difficult to image a piece more valuable in sentiment than one given to Elizabeth Taylor by the late Michael Jackson. This diamond bracelet centers on five rectangular-cut diamonds within an arched baguette-cut and circular-cut oval shaped frame.

The Burton Cognac Diamond Earrings. Another pair of stunning earrings given to Taylor by Richard Burton, the pear-shaped deep brown, yellow diamond is what make this piece particularly special and beautiful.

The Night of the Iguana Brooch with Diamonds, Sapphires and Emeralds by Jean Schlumberger, Tiffany & Co. This brooch was given to Taylor by Richard Burton in 1964, to wear to the premiere of his film The Night of the Iguana. The special piece is designed as a circular cut diamond body with 18k gold scale and diamond pave fins. The head is accented with cabochon sapphire eyes and a calibre-cut emerald mouth. The little polished gold whiskers add a perfect finishing touch.

The Mike Todd Antique Diamond Tiara. This antique diamond tiara, ca 1880, was a gift to Elizabeth from her late husband Mike Todd, and is perhaps one of her most recognized pieces. The diamond latticework motifs are mounted in platinum and gold.

Photo: Gianni Bozzacchi

Photograph by Edward Quinn

On Friday, we’ll begin our coverage of the Elizabeth Taylor jewelry auction at Christies, in which we’ll feature some of her most famous pieces – and lesser known pieces – such as the Van Cleef & Arpels ring in the first photograph, and the iconic diamond tiara in the second. These images of Taylor always serves as an amazing source of inspiration, as does her jewelry collection. Stay tuned for our first selection of special investment pieces this Friday.

Belle Epoque Natural Pearl and Diamond Tassel Sautoir. We have a weakness for Belle Epoque pieces, and this is no exception. From the seed pearl tassel with a single-cut diamond cap, to the natural pearl necklace, this sautoir is a very special piece that evokes a wonderful period in history.

Diamond, Jade and Gold Necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels. Four carved jade plaques are the focal point of this striking Van Cleef piece from 1975. We love the diamond and gold surrounds, as well as the sculpted gold neck chain.

Amber and Multi-Gem Verdura Earrings. These earrings are unlike any we’ve seen recently. The amber is so clear, it is almost see through. Each earring is designed as an amber seashell, set at each end with an oval cabochon ruby or emerald.

Art Deco Diamond and Rock Crystal Bracelet, ca 1925. The combination of rock crystal and diamonds is what drew us to this piece. The three rock crystal links provide the perfect balance for the diamond links and the cushion-cut diamond in the center.

Tiffany & Co. Diamond Brooch. This Tiffany brooch, to us, embodies a classic New York jewel. It is designed as an octagonal-shaped gridwork plaque, centered on a circular-cut diamond within a diamond foliate surround. The black enamel trim gives the piece a bit of an edge.

*Photos 1 and 2 from NYMag.com, taken by Alessia Campostrini. Photos 3-5 courtesy of Style.com, taken by Tommy Ton. Photos 6-7 from Vogue.com, taken by Phil Oh.

Victorian 15 Karat Yellow Gold, Diamond, Pearl and Enamel Bracelet. The detailed openwork design accents the green enamel and pearl. It’s hard to tear your eyes away from this interesting piece.

18K Yellow Gold Emerald and Enamel Poison Ring. We love the idea of a poison ring; it immediately incites curiosity about what the (hopefully) fascinating story behind it may be. The blue enamel and gold accents provide a nice background for the emerald, which covers the hidden compartment in the center.

Edwardian 18K Yellow Gold and Guilloche Enamel Pendant Watch, Paul Ditisheim ca 1990. The elaborate purple guilloche enamel on the back of this pendant caught our eye, as we have an affinity for pieces that are wearable (and beautiful) on both the front and the back.

Edwardian Yellow Gold, Diamond and Ruby Mesh Purse. We were immediately struck by the intricately engraved foliate hardware on this purse. It contains six European cut diamonds and seven brilliant cut rubies, which have been declared by a gemologist as being unenhanced, natural rubies originally from Burma.

Platinum, Diamond, and Lapis Lazuli Earrings. The Lapis Lazuli – a relatively rare semi-precious stone prized since antiquity for its intense blue color – is what makes these earrings special. The deep blue color is enhanced by the abundance of diamonds, making for major antique earrings that still feel modern.

Belle Epoque Platinum, Pearl and Diamond Bandeau circa 1905. This intricate tiara takes us back 100 years. The openwork garland motif with diamond-set leaves is accented by scalloped filigree – a very delicate metalwork that resembles lace – edged by small old-mine and rose-cut diamonds.

Cartier Art Deco Platinum , Aquamarine and Diamond Double Clip Brooch, circa 1930. The aquamarines in this piece are exquisite: clear and pure with immaculate transparency.

Asprey & Co. Gold, Citrine and Diamond Bracelet.This piece is composed of eight stylized flowers with citrines in the center, which are balanced nicely with round diamonds.

Charlton & Co. Art Deco Platinum, Carved Jade and Diamond Clips, circa 1930.The jade plaques are intricately carved, and the diamond-set scrolls both compliment and enhance the lovely color.

Van Cleef & Arpels Gold, Coral and Diamond Flower Clip-Brooch. We couldn’t help but include a statement Van Cleef & Arpels piece. Tubular shaped coral sits in the center and is accented by seven round diamonds with an openwork design of 18k gold petals.

Lady’s Antique Gold and Enamel Pair Case Pendant-Watch. This 18k gold antique pocket watch is signed Longines. It is a true conversation piece, with a painted enamel scene in the center and a white enamel dial.

The view the full catalogue of pieces up for auction, click here.

Father, Mother, and Child Medallion. As usual, we are taken with personalized vintage pieces. The detailed portrait of a family on the front is only made more special by the engraving on the back: “I love you Leslie. 1968.”

Engraved Frame Amethyst Drop Earring. The engraved frame on these 14K gold earrings provides a nice balance for the Amethyst stone, which appears to have excellent clarity.

Victorian Etruscan Revival Lion Bracelet. Etruscan revival jewelry is inspired by archaeological finds unearthed at Pompei, making for a very distinct style. The pearl set engraved star in the center of the crossover lion heads makes a bit of a statement, without being overwhelming – which makes it great for layering with other pieces.

Rococco Revival Lognette. Were fascinated by this lognette. Though originally intended for holding spectacles in place, the vine-like pattern and in depth engraving on the large pendant make for a stunning necklace.

Antique Knights of Pythias Fob on Hairwatch Chain. This fob will most likely appeal to a more serious collector, but we thought it was too interesting not to include. The Order of the Knights of Pythias was an international fraternity founded in 1864, the principles of which were ‘Friendship, Charity, and Benevolence. The piece is priced at $350, which is a steal for a fob with such a rich history behind it.

*Photos courtesy of Doyle & Doyle. Doyle & Doyle is located at 189 Orchard St. in New York City.

More so than clothing it’s often jewelry that is handed down, given as a token of love or relationships and worn by a woman her entire lifetime no matter her age or size. And nothing stops us quite in our tracks like a woman in amazing jewelry. It’s not layers of bling that automatically impress, but the way she puts the pieces together, and of course the story behind them. Todays installment of Street Style features Publicist/Writer Victoria Alexander in a photo taken by Refinery29. Her bold mix of pieces from across the globe made us want to ask the key question: What is the story behind them?

Who: Victoria Alexander, Publicist/Writer

What: An eclectic mix of bracelets and cuffs collected from places all over the world.

Why we love it: The diversity of the collection, which includes pieces she has gathered from Mexico and India, invites conversation about the story behind each bracelet. When asked by Refinery29 if she had any tips for layering, Victoria replied “Wear color and Wear what you love.” We wholeheartedly agree.

Photo by Refinery29.

1930′s Art Deco Bakelite & Chrome Large Link Bracelet. We love the color of this unique Bakelite piece. Red is timeless but bold.

Victorian 15kt Gold Onyx and Enameled Earrings, ca 1880. We happen to love onyx (as you can tell from our recent Black and White Collection) and were truly enamored with the elegant sophistication of these statement earrings.

Victorian 14kt Love Knot Stick Pin Bracelet with Stones, ca 1880. We’re always taken with pieces that are both sentimental and beautiful. Each love knot has a different motif, some of which include stones such as ruby and opal.

Victorian 14kt Hard Stone Cameo & Natural Pearl Bracelet, ca 1880. This statement bracelet is stunning – a real collectors items. The website has a wonderful description of the history behind cameo carvings, which gives you a good sense of the history behind the piece.

Victorian Shiebler for Tiffany Sterling Homeric Coin Bracelet, ca 1880. Nine Homeric medallion coins make up this unusual bracelet, created by craftsman George W. Shiebler for Tiffany & Co. This is a real conversation piece.

Edwardian 14kt Gold & Platinum Locket with Snake, ca 1910. As usual, we had to include a locket from Brandt’s impeccable selection. We love the way the snake is crafted as though it is weaved through the locket. There is also a hand engraving on the back, which is hard for us to resist.

Art Deco 14kt Gold Diamond Engagement Ring 1.68ct. We don’t typically feature engagement rings, but Brandt has such a gorgeous collection we couldn’t help ourselves. Something about a vintage engagement ring feels very special and sentimental. The European cut and the floral engraving on the band are absolutely beautiful.