Movies have a way of immortalizing not only the actors and their performances but also the stunning jewelry that graces the big screen. From diamond chokers to emerald-cut engagement rings, these iconic pieces have left a lasting impact on both cinema and the jewelry industry. Here, we delve into some of the most memorable pieces of jewelry from classic films and explore their stories and significance.
Marilyn Monroe's Diamond Jewels in 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes' (1953)
By the time 'Gentlemen Prefer Blondes' hit theaters in 1953, Marilyn Monroe had already achieved superstar status. However, her portrayal of Lorelei Lee took her luxe image to new heights. Adorned in a diamond choker, bracelets, and earrings, Monroe’s performance is legendary, particularly her rendition of "Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend." This iconic scene not only showcased Monroe dripping in diamonds but also had a profound impact on the diamond industry, reinforcing the association of diamonds with glamour and romance.
Among the many dazzling pieces she wore, the most notable was the Moon of Baroda, a 24.04-carat pear-shaped canary yellow diamond necklace. This historic gem has a storied past, believed to have been owned by the Maharajah of Baroda for over 500 years before making its way to Hollywood. Recently, the necklace fetched $1.3 million at auction, far exceeding its expected value of $750,000, demonstrating its lasting allure.
Monroe’s association with diamonds was further cemented by DeBeers’ tagline "A diamond is forever," which followed the film. This partnership between cinema and marketing fueled the enduring popularity of diamond engagement rings, a trend that persists even today.
Grace Kelly's Engagement Ring in 'High Society' (1956)
Grace Kelly’s diamond engagement ring in 'High Society' was not just a prop—it was her real-life engagement ring from Prince Rainier III of Monaco. This Cartier 8-carat emerald-cut diamond is as breathtaking as Kelly herself and added an extra layer of authenticity to her portrayal of Tracy Lord. As Kelly was already engaged during filming, 'High Society' became her final film before her wedding to the Prince of Monaco.
This exquisite ring not only symbolizes a royal romance but also reflects Kelly's impeccable style and elegance. Its prominence in the film has immortalized it as one of the most iconic pieces of jewelry in cinematic history.
Audrey Hepburn's Pearl & Diamond Necklace in 'Breakfast at Tiffany's' (1961)
Audrey Hepburn’s portrayal of Holly Golightly in 'Breakfast at Tiffany’s' is synonymous with timeless elegance. The multiple strand pearl necklace clasped with a large diamond brooch she wears in the film's opening scene became an iconic look. While Hepburn didn’t actually wear Tiffany jewelry in the movie, her performance and the film’s association with the brand turned Tiffany’s flagship store into a New York City landmark and a tourist destination.
In promotional photographs, Hepburn was seen wearing the 128.54-carat Tiffany Diamond set in a ribbon necklace designed by Jean Schlumberger. Although this piece didn’t appear in the film, it further solidified the connection between Hepburn, the film, and Tiffany & Co. Her charm and glamour infused the brand with a sense of magic that continues to attract visitors to Tiffany’s to this day.
Claudia Cardinale's 'The Pink Panther' Necklace in 'The Pink Panther' (1963)
In the 1963 film 'The Pink Panther', the plot revolves around the theft of the elusive Pink Panther diamond, a 125-carat faux gem that captured audiences' imaginations. While the necklace itself was not real, its significance in the storyline and the heist genre contributed to its legendary status in movie history.
Claudia Cardinale, who played Princess Dala, wore the stunning necklace, adding to the allure and mystique of the film. The Pink Panther diamond remains a symbol of cinematic elegance and intrigue, embodying the film’s whimsical and sophisticated spirit.
Gina Lollobrigida's Diamond Necklace & Tiara in 'Woman of Straw' (1964)
In 'Woman of Straw', Gina Lollobrigida dazzled audiences with her glamorous attire and exquisite Bulgari jewelry. Her character’s sequin and beaded evening gown was complemented by a diamond scroll motif bracelet worn as a tiara, along with a matching necklace. These pieces were so stunning that it was rumored Lollobrigida purchased them after filming.
The intricate design and craftsmanship of these jewels showcased Bulgari's expertise and added a touch of luxury to the film. Lollobrigida’s performance, combined with the dazzling jewelry, made 'Woman of Straw' a memorable cinematic experience.
Anne Hathaway's Diamond Necklace in 'Ocean's 8' (2018)
In 'Ocean's 8', the plot centers around the "Toussaint Necklace," a jaw-dropping piece of jewelry. Although the necklace in the film is a recreation, it is based on an original design by Jacques Cartier in 1931. The original necklace, created for the Maharaja of Nawanagar, was dubbed “the most beautiful cascade of colored diamonds in the world.”
Anne Hathaway's character, Daphne Kluger, wears the replica necklace, adding a layer of authenticity and opulence to the heist film. The necklace's rich history and stunning design make it a standout piece, even as a recreation.
Nicole Kidman's Intricate Satine Necklace in 'Moulin Rouge' (2001)
Nicole Kidman’s portrayal of Satine in 'Moulin Rouge' is unforgettable, partly due to the dazzling diamond necklace she wears. Designed by Australian jeweler Stefano Canturi, the necklace features 1,308 diamonds totaling about 134 carats. The intricate lace design and the inclusion of significant stones, such as a 5-carat emerald-cut diamond and a 2.5-carat Sri Lankan blue sapphire, make this one of the most elaborate and valuable pieces of jewelry ever created for a movie.
The necklace was so valuable that Canturi made a second version out of silver and crystals for scenes where it needed to be handled roughly. Initially valued at around $1 million, the necklace was briefly up for auction before Canturi decided to keep it in his personal collection.
Julia Roberts' Ruby and Diamond Necklace in 'Pretty Woman' (1990)
The jewelry box scene in 'Pretty Woman' is one of the most iconic moments in romantic comedy history. The ruby and diamond necklace gifted by Richard Gere to Julia Roberts' character is equally unforgettable. Crafted by Fred Joaillier, a French jeweler, the necklace features 23 pear-cut rubies set within diamond hearts, all set in 18K white gold. Estimated to be worth over $1.3 million, this stunning piece perfectly complemented Roberts’ elegant red gown and marked a significant turning point in the film.
The necklace’s combination of red and white gemstones in a classic design continues to inspire jewelry lovers and remains a popular choice for replicas.
These iconic movie jewels have not only enhanced the films in which they appeared but also left a lasting impact on the jewelry industry. From Marilyn Monroe's diamonds to Audrey Hepburn's pearls, each piece tells a unique story and contributes to the magic of cinema. Whether real or recreated, these jewels continue to captivate audiences and inspire jewelry enthusiasts around the world. As we look back on these timeless pieces, we celebrate the artistry and elegance that they brought to the silver screen.
