If you™re a Birmingham jewelry collector looking for inspiration, we invite you to look to America’s classic beauties. Stars like Marilyn Monroe and Elizabeth Taylor were the epitome of glamour and classic beauty, and they remain some of the greatest references for style-conscious individuals around the world. Learn more about these iconic women who defined style in the last century.
Hollywood legend Marilyn Monroe famously sang that diamonds are a girl’s best friend. Famed jewelers loaned her priceless pieces to be worn on the red carpet, during photo shoots, while filming on location, and at other appearances. Ms. Monroe had some lovely pieces in her personal collection as well, including an eternity-style engagement ring and a strand of Mikimoto pearls, both gifted to her by husband Joe DiMaggio. Birmingham jewelry enthusiasts will be pleased to know that the legacy Mikimoto brand is alive and thriving today. You can get your own piece of history by buying from the same jeweler who crafted Ms. Monroe’s strand of pearls. Those who are fans of the larger than life diamond necklaces Ms. Monroe frequently sported in public appearances and on the big screen, Forevermark offers an absolutely stunning graduated diamond necklace that will surely win your heart.
Beloved first lady Jackie O. was the epitome of style. She was known for sporting classic looks that were timeless yet current, including everything from her oversized sunglasses to her simplistic watch. Fans of this style will love Eli Jewels™ drop pearl earrings with diamond accents and the unique chain collection that complements any wardrobe. The Monaco square watch from TAGHeuer is a must-have item for Birmingham jewelry fans who love the unmistakable Jackie O. style.
Another screen legend whose name became synonymous with fashion, Audrey Hepburn won over America’s hearts on the big screen and in real life, too. She managed to look effortlessly elegant time and time again, and she frequently wore a single piece of statement jewelry, such as a layered pearl necklace or attention-grabbing earrings. The David Yurman Starburst Necklace with Diamonds in Gold and Ippolita’s Sterling Silver Stella Stud Earrings with Diamonds both blend seamlessly into this approach.
In the eyes of the American public, Grace Kelly was flawless. As a princess and a movie star, she had access to incredible jewelers of the time and displayed pieces from an impressive collection. Her engagement ring featured a 10.47 carat Cartier emerald-cut diamond, and she also had many pearls and diamonds pieces, in addition to a number of playful animal brooches. The Laguna diamond and pearl bracelet and Mikimoto pearls are two superb options for Birmingham jewelry enthusiasts to review and learn about for their own Princess Grace-inspired collections.
In addition to her legendary screen roles, Elizabeth Taylor may have been best known in the public for her unmistakable collection of diamonds and jewels. Every piece is bold, big, and makes a statement. For those of us in Birmingham, jewelry from Roberto Coin, like the Ipanema Semiprecious Stones Necklace or the Appassionata 3-Row Diamond Necklace both speak to the style of Elizabeth Taylor.