Elizabeth is Forever

Not many people can upstage a 69.42 carat diamond, but Elizabeth Taylor did it with effortless elegance. Ms. Taylor wore what was at the time the most expensive diamond in the world and it appeared minimalistic compared to her bold yet sophisticated presence. She was a timeless movie icon, determined business woman and generous philanthropist.  She knew what she wanted and went for it. No one can argue that the woman was fierce. Whether it was the roles she chose, the men she romanced or the jewels she wore, she was unapologetically Elizabeth Taylor. However, it might be her humble and generous humanitarian contributions that ultimately define her legacy.

Her passionate dedication for helping others meant giving up some of the things she enjoyed the most. In  1978, following her first divorce to Richard Burton, Taylor sold her infamous 69.42 “Taylor-Burton” diamond to help fund the building of a hospital in Botswana. She later auctioned off many other jewels close to her heart to raise money for The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation. Regarding a particular piece, she is quoted as saying, “Please know that it is not easy for me to give away. It is only my commitment to AIDS that persuaded me to let it go. My love is inside that ring forever.”

No matter how you remember Elizabeth Taylor, her energy, both fierce and compassionate, is something that will live on as long as the diamonds that adorned her.