REAL History: The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond (AKA The Krupp)
The Elizabeth Taylor Engagement Ring is one of the most famous diamond rings in history. But, did you know this stunner had a famous past before making it onto the actress’ finger? Let me introduce you to the mysterious history of the Elizabeth Taylor Diamond…

Elizabeth Taylor Diamond or Krupp Diamond?
Before actor Richard Burton slipped the infamous 33.19ct onto Elizabeth Taylor’s hand, this emerald cut stunner was known as the Krupp Diamond. Vera Krupp was a German actress, baroness, and Las Vegas rancher, born in 1909. During her life, she married four times, divorced a baron for her childhood sweetheart, and wore a 33ct diamond along with her leather chaps as she worked land alongside cowboys.
On April 10, 1959, thieves raided Vera’s ranch and made off with the jewel. The ring was whisked across the country, taken apart, and sold in pieces on the black market. The FBI was hot on the trail, tracing whispers from Utah to Louisiana, even down to Florida. Ultimately, they found the diamond in the lining of a coat pocket in New Jersey! In fact, they even found the side stones. So, Vera rebuilt her beautiful ring!
After Vera’s passing, Richard Burton purchased the diamond, giving it to his wife, actress Elizabeth Taylor. The diamond was in good company. Liz was also quite the dynamo, marrying eight times – twice to Burton himself – also being awarded a damehood by the Queen and countless Hollywood accolades for her illustrious acting career.

What was Elizabeth Taylor’s engagement ring like?
Liz referred to the diamond as her little “skating rink” – and for good reason. The 33.19ct antique style emerald cut measures a whopping 21.77 x 18.74mm! Given the average finger width is 17mm, you can be sure that this diamond completely covers the lower knuckle when worn. In addition to being enormous, the stone is a top D color. So, it is completely colorless. And as a Type IIA stone, it is extra rare! Interestingly, despite receiving a VS1 clarity in 2011, the stone is rumored to be internally flawless. Either way, the stone is definitely eye clean. GIA reports that the diamond is currently being re-graded!
Want more? In addition to the beautiful center, the Elizabeth Taylor diamond ring also boasts two tapered baguettes in its classic platinum setting.
What happened to Elizabeth Taylor’s engagement ring?
Upon Elizabeth Taylor’s passing, Christie’s sold the diamond at an auction commemorating her life. The stone was a crowning jewel of the event. It sparkled in its own glass case at the center of the significant collection. In fact, Taylor’s collection was so vast, an entire room was dedicated only to her jewelry boxes. In life, Liz thought of herself as her jewels’ “custodian,” once stating, “I have never thought of my jewelry as trophies. I am just here to take care of them.”
Fun fact: I was at the preview of this auction in 2011. Christie’s did a magnificent job showcasing the absolute adoration that Liz had for these remarkable jewels.

How much is Elizabeth Taylor’s diamond ring worth?
The value of the Elizabeth Taylor Engagement Ring has increased significantly over time. Back in 1959, the ring was estimated to be worth of $275,000. Richard Burton purchased the ring for $307,000 in 1968. And, when it was sold following Liz’s death in 2011, the winning bid was $8,818,500!
Want more? While the value of most stones would appreciate with the raising of a clarity grade from VS1 to IF, the Elizabeth Taylor diamond’s spectacular value is a result of its “provenance.” In other words, its famous history and ownership.
Why this inspires us…
I love the idea of this jewel empowering two powerful, self-confident women! Jewelry has a unique ability to make people feel love, appreciation, and power. I think this is why it makes such a great achievement gift, in addition to representing engagement. It makes me want to design a big ring for myself! What about you?
Want your very own ice skating rink?
I’d love to help you design one! Reach out to me, Corinne, at care@doamore.com, drop me a note here, or give me a call! I would love to help you find the perfect powerful center stone to make your dreams come true! In the meantime, check out this stunning 5.02ct F/VS1 Emerald cut lab diamond – available as of writing for $23,630. Pairing this stone with the Tapered Baguette Ring is a classic Liz Taylor look.
