Elizabeth Taylor (February 27, 1932 – March 23, 2011)
The tone of our celebrity article is usually more flippant and light-hearted; however the passing of a legend requires an appropriate tone of solemnity

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An English-born American actress, developed from child star to one of the great screen actresses of Hollywood's Golden Age. Taylor was not only supremely talented but also glamorous, beautiful, and compassionate. Her humanity endeared her to millions and her multiple marriages, addictions, and health problems only served to make her more human. Who could fail to be seduced by those violet eyes?

 

Taylor and the 69.42ct Taylor Burton Diamond

Possibly Taylor’s greatest weakness though was for jewelry, in particular, diamonds. She even wrote a book, “My Love Affair with Jewelry.” In it, she wrote, "I'm fortunate to have some very important pieces of jewelry. I don't believe I own any of the pieces. I believe that I am their custodian, here to enjoy them, to give them the best treatment in the world, to watch after their safety, and to love them."

Taylor’s signature perfume was named White Diamonds; however she had no aversion to colored diamonds. The love of her life, Richard Burton, gifted Taylor a heart-shaped yellow diamond (pictured below) which was originally a gift from Shah Jahan in 1621 to his favorite wife, Mumtaz Mahal, the woman who inspired the Taj Mahal.
 Just like inspirational women, diamonds are eternal.