Wednesday, October 1, 2008

The Most Famous Statement Necklaces.


So my previous post started me thinking about the most famous statement necklaces of all time. So here is my list of some of the most infamous and memorable.






1. The Hope Diamond.






I will start with the Hope Diamond which many believe is cursed, especially since the the most famous wearer of this necklace Marie Antoinette literally lost her head. The Hope Diamond started out as an 112 carat brilliantly blue diamond that many believe came from an Indian mine. It was sold to King Louis XIV of France in 1668, was re-cut which resulted in it losing almost half its carats. The now 67 carat diamond was named "Blue Diamond of the Crown" and was often referred to as "French Blue". It was set in gold affixed to a ribbon and often worn by the King during ceremonial events. It was subsequently passed down to King Louis XV and his wife, Marie Antoinette, and was recovered when they were caught trying to flee the country and the guillotine during the French Revolution. But now all can visit this famous necklace as it is safely ensconced in the Smithsonian.




2. Anne Boleyn's "B" Necklace.


King Henry the VIII's wife Anne Boleyn was known to often wear her "B" necklace. Apparently initial jewelry was quite popular during this time period. Historians say that she also had a necklace that had both her initials of "AB" . Here is a portrait of her wearing the necklace. And also a picture of a modern incarnation that is worn by both Natalie Portman in the movie The Other Boleyn Girl and Ugly Betty.





I will be the first to admit that I am not a fan of this necklace. Not only did its famous wearer perish at the gallows ( maybe it is not so good to own a statement necklace) but it is kind of tacky. But the beautiful necklace below by, Wendy Brandes is dainty and gorgeous and I would happily wear it.


3. The Taylor-Burton Diamond




The Taylor-Burton Diamond a 69 carat pear shaped diamond was purchased by Richard Burton for then wife Elizabeth Taylor. It was later affixed to a Cartier necklace and worn for the first time in public by Elizabeth Taylor when she attended Grace Kelly's 40th birthday party in Monaco.



4. Holly Golightly Necklace.


I don't know who made it or whether it was real or faux but the 3 strand pearl necklace with a sparkly diamond brooch worn by Audrey Hepburn in the 1961 film Breakfast at Tiffany's as character Holly Golightly is a classic statement necklace. The statement being, "I am well taken care of". Marvel at its sparkling splendor below.



1 comment:

WendyB said...

I'm glad you like my version of the Boleyn Necklace! I agree, the original one is very clunky looking. For the 1500s, I'm sure it was great though.