When Elizabeth Taylor’s jewelry collection went up for auction at Christie’s in late 2011, Bulgari bought up $20 million worth of their creations. Smart move – the value of pieces rapidly appreciated in the actress’ keeping. This summer they will exhibit several of these special gems in honor of the 50th anniversary of Taylor’s film Cleopatra (where she famously met Richard Burton, the gifter of many of these jewels). Jessica Chastain will host the Cannes Film Festival event wearing Taylor’s famous emerald and diamond necklace, so you can probably bet that the matching brooch (which went for a cool $6,578,500 at Christie’s) will also be on display. Cleopatra’s gold and turquoise mirror is of course on the roster, and I imagine so is Burton’s 40th birthday present to his love – the sapphire and diamond sautoir. One exciting surprise? A brand new Bulgari exclusive that’ll be auctioned off to benefit the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. Sounds like an event fit for a queen!
