TAYLOR Famous 'Shah Jehan' Faux Diamond & Rubies Pendant Necklace

Jewelry : Vintage : Costume : Elizabeth Taylor : Avon

$495 USD
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The original from which this faux heart-shaped diamond and rubies pendant necklace was recreated was a gift of love from British actor Richard Burton to his wife, Elizabeth Taylor, on her 40th birthday.

And four centuries earlier, in the 17th century, this same diamond was a gift from Mogul Emperor Shah Jehan (or Jahan) of India to his beloved wife, Mumtaz Mahal. Jehan so loved Mahal that when she died, he had built the famous Taj Mahal as a mausoleum for her.

Burton purchased the original Jehan pendant from Cartier in 1970; Cartier redesigned the necklace in a setting of 18-karat gold and rubies.

Two decades later, Taylor, in collaboration with Avon, had an exact copy of the Cartier-designed necklace recreated, as the centerpiece of her limited production "Fashion Jewelry Collection".

That's what we have here, the famous Shah Jehan pendant, from "Dame Liz" — to you — with love!

Comes in its original lavender box and sleeve, and as mint as can be, this necklace is a keeper, not only for its storied past, but its stunning looks.

The glittery heart "diamond" (glass crystal) is, like the original, etched with the name of the Empress in Persian and the Shah's date of ascension to the throne. It is framed by 31 hand-set faux rubies, a jade-green inlay and faux diamond rhinestones.

The back of the pendant is as impressive as the front, with intricate latticework that reveals the faux jade within.

It hangs permanently from an adjustable slide chain, which has gilt bands decorated with ruby glass cabochons. The chain ends with a gilt tassel that also has ruby beads.

So like the original, see for yourself: I have enclosed a photo of the original Shah Jehan-necklace, plus a photo of Taylor (with Burton) wearing the same necklace.

Our pendant measures 2 1/4" x 2" x 1/4" thick. Its chain is 34" long, and the slide can be adjusted to any length, including a neck-hugging choker. Marked "E" and Elizabeth Taylor/Avon.

Original owner was a collector of Liz Taylor jewelry (see a few others listed in the store), and she treasured all of them. Aside from the box, this necklace comes with its purple flannel pouch.

Increasingly hard to find, as Taylor's jewelry collection has long been discontinued. This one appears in a 1993 Avon booklet showcasing the Elizabeth Taylor Jewelry Collection.

If you're looking for a piece of the legendary actress to cherish — or give to a loved one — this is your best bet.

Especially as the original Shah Jehan necklace from Taylor's vault is still generating raves. This year, Cartier marked its 100th anniversary with an exbihit called "Cartier Celebrates 100 Years in America". In its collection of the best and the finest is the Shah Jehan piece — now, there's something to boast about!

Item ID: 1009-TAY3