From the colorful, couture frocks worn during her two weddings with actor Richard Burton, to the dazzling ruby and diamond Cartier jewelry set, a gift from her third husband, film producer Mike Todd, “The Collection of Elizabeth Taylor” on display at Christie’s auction house in New York tells a passionate story, spanning seven husbands and nearly five decades.
The exhibition opens to the public on Saturday.
Tokens from admirers include an autographed poster from Michael Jackson. The 1987 print is signed “To my true love Elizabeth. I love you forever.”
The exhibit, which runs through Dec. 12, includes Taylor’s 33.19-carat, emerald cut diamond ring. The estimated worth of the gift Burton gave her in 1968 is $2.5 million to $3.5 million.
One of the most precious items of the collection is a 16th century pear-shaped pearl, the centerpiece of a ruby and diamond necklace designed by Cartier and Taylor herself. The necklace’s estimated worth is $2 million to $3 million.
The collection will be up for auction both live and online Dec. 13-17.
First Published December 3, 2011, 5:25 a.m.
