The Story Behind the Taylor-Burton Diamond

In 1969, Dame Elizabeth Taylor received a 69.42 ct pear-shaped Cartier diamond from her husband, Richard Burton. The sheer size and weight of the stone made it too heavy to wear as a ring. Cartier commissioned Oscar Heyman, the “jeweler’s jeweler” and the only jeweler they trusted for the job, to design a necklace for her diamond. The result was a cascade of graduated pear-shaped diamonds with a special setting for her remarkable gem.

Dame Elizabeth Taylor wore the necklace on several notable occasions, including Princess Grace of Monaco’s 40th birthday party in Monte Carlo and the 1970 Academy Awards. The diamond became known as the “Taylor-Burton diamond,” and the necklace remains one of many renowned designs from Oscar Heyman. Featured in our collection is a necklace inspired by this iconic design.

Bella Cosa Jewelers Wilmette is honored to present its first high jewelry collection featuring Oscar Heyman. We invite you to the store for a personalized appointment and viewing of the collection. To reserve your place, please contact karina@mybella.com or call (847) 251-5000. 

Available through August exclusively in-store at Wilmette.