Snob Essentials
Historic Jewels
The Darya-i-Noor Diamond

The Darya-i-Noor Diamond: Romancing the $16.5 Billion Stone

The Darya-i-Noor (which translates from Farsi to “Sea of Light”) is the largest pink diamond and one of the largest cut diamonds on the planet. Though the exact weight is unknown, it’s estimated around a massive 182 carats. Another jaw-dropping estimation? The stone is valued at $16.5 billion.

READ MORE >

Elizabeth Taylor’s Bulgari Jewels: Cleopatra’s Collection

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 … Continue reading “Elizabeth Taylor’s Bulgari Jewels: Cleopatra’s Collection”

READ MORE >

Set in Style: The Jewelry of Van Cleef & Arpels

One of the most buzzed about events to take place during New York Fashion Week was the opening of “Set in Style: The Jewelry of Van Cleef & Arpels” at the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum (2 East 91st St., NYC). No surprise there…I mean who wouldn’t want to spend an afternoon looking at some serious … Continue reading “Set in Style: The Jewelry of Van Cleef & Arpels”

READ MORE >

Garrard Wings

Garrard makes the royal jewels for the British Royal Family. And they do custom pieces, which means you can have yourself a royal tiara for the right price (I was told they make a lot of these for serious Jewel Snobs in Malaysia!). The history of Garrard is long and detailed but the one liner … Continue reading “Garrard Wings”

READ MORE >

Cartier 100th Anniversary – La Peregrina Pearl

Elizabeth Taylor wearing La Peregrina Pearl; Portrait by Diego Velazquez of Queen Mariana of Spain wearing La Peregrina Pearl I went to see Cartier’s 100th Anniversary exhibit at their Rodeo Drive store and there were a lot of incredible pieces, many worthy of individual mention but since I love other people’s drama, the one that … Continue reading “Cartier 100th Anniversary – La Peregrina Pearl”

READ MORE >