Elizabeth Taylor was one of the most iconic actresses of the 20th century, and her personal life was just as fascinating as her on-screen performances.
Her beauty, talent, and style have captivated audiences for generations, making her memorabilia highly sought after by collectors around the world.
Here are 10 of the most valuable pieces of Elizabeth Taylor memorabilia that have sold at auction:
1. Diamond and Emerald Necklace - $6.1 million
In 2011, Taylor's jewelry collection was auctioned off at Christie's in New York City. One of the most impressive pieces was a diamond and emerald necklace, which sold for $6.1 million. The necklace features a 16th-century pear-shaped emerald pendant, surrounded by diamonds and set in platinum.
2. La Peregrina Pearl Necklace - $11.8 million
Another piece from Taylor's jewelry collection, the La Peregrina Pearl Necklace, sold for $11.8 million at the same Christie's auction. The necklace features a large, pear-shaped pearl that was once owned by Spanish royalty, and was given to Taylor by her husband, Richard Burton.
3. Cleopatra headdress - $115,000
Taylor's iconic role as Cleopatra in the 1963 film of the same name is still remembered today for its lavish costumes and set designs. In 2013, a headdress worn by Taylor in the film sold for $115,000 at an auction in Dallas.
4. "National Velvet" Riding Hat - $52,000
Taylor's breakthrough role was in the 1944 film "National Velvet," in which she played a young girl who trains a horse for the Grand National. In 2013, her riding hat from the film sold for $52,000 at a Julien's Auctions event.
5. Christian Dior Gown - $362,500
Taylor was known for her impeccable sense of style, and this Christian Dior gown is a prime example. The dress, which she wore to the 1974 Academy Awards, sold for $362,500 at a Christie's auction in 2011.
6. Andy Warhol Portrait - $662,500
In 2010, an Andy Warhol portrait of Taylor sold for $662,500 at a Christie's auction. The portrait, which was created in 1963, shows Taylor with her famous violet eyes.
7. Bulgari Sapphire Sautoir - $5.9 million
Another piece from Taylor's jewelry collection, the Bulgari Sapphire Sautoir, sold for $5.9 million at the 2011 Christie's auction. The sautoir features a large cabochon sapphire pendant, surrounded by diamonds and set in gold.
8. Elizabeth Taylor's First Wedding Dress - $187,931
Taylor was married eight times, but her first wedding to hotel heir Conrad Hilton Jr. in 1950 was one of the most talked-about events of the year. Her wedding dress, which was designed by Helen Rose, sold for $187,931 at a Christie's auction in 2013.
9. Cartier Ruby and Diamond Necklace - $6.1 million
Another piece from Taylor's jewelry collection, the Cartier Ruby and Diamond Necklace, sold for $6.1 million at the 2011 Christie's auction. The necklace features a large ruby surrounded by diamonds, set in platinum.
10. Elizabeth Taylor's Book Collection - $2.3 million
In 2011, Taylor's personal book collection was sold at auction for $2.3 million. The collection included a first edition of "Wuthering Heights" and a copy of "Gone with the Wind" signed by author Margaret Mitchell.
About your Author:
Adrian Roose has over 30 years’ experience covering all aspects of the rare stamp & memorabilia industry during which he has sold over £50m of unique items, helping build collections for Royalty, household name celebrities and 1,000s of collectors around the world.
Adrian was previously a Director at Stanley Gibbons, a Board Member of Stampex, and Executive Director of Paul Fraser Collectibles, PFC Auctions and JustCollecting, prior to founding The Memorabilia Club.