Elizabeth Taylor’s Close Friend Recalls Her Leaving Krupp Diamond at Hotel (Exclusive)
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In a recent exclusive interview, a close friend of the iconic actress Elizabeth Taylor reminisced about a memorable incident involving the famous Krupp Diamond. The actress, well-known for her love of luxury travel and exquisite jewelry, had a penchant for carrying her valuable pieces with her wherever she went. However, on one particular occasion, she found herself in a bit of a predicament after forgetting the 33-carat Krupp Diamond at a hotel.
Being a trusted confidante and executive assistant to Elizabeth Taylor from 1990 until her passing in 2011, Tim Mendelson shared insights into the actress’s glamorous yet adventurous lifestyle. Recalling a trip abroad with Taylor, Mendelson vividly described the moment of panic when the actress realised she had left the precious diamond behind at their hotel in Venice.
Taylor, accompanied by her then-husband Larry Fortensky, had been attending various events and engagements during their stay. It was during a luncheon with renowned artist Robert Rauschenberg that Taylor discreetly alerted Mendelson to the missing diamond. The shock and urgency in her voice were evident as she confessed to the oversight, setting off a series of swift actions to retrieve the valuable gem.
The Krupp Diamond, later renamed the Elizabeth Taylor Diamond in honour of the actress, had been a gift from Taylor’s ex-husband Richard Burton. Purchased in 1968, the flawless 33.19-carat gem held significant sentimental value for Taylor, who treasured it deeply. Mendelson recounted Taylor’s habit of carrying her prized jewelry, including items from luxury brands like Cartier and Bulgari, with her on her travels, demonstrating her unabashed love for glamour and opulence.
With a quick and discreet plan in place, Mendelson accompanied by Taylor’s head of security, Moshe, rushed back to the hotel by speedboat to retrieve the forgotten diamond. Upon reaching the suite where the cleaning crew was already at work, Mendelson found the diamond sitting undisturbed in the bathroom. Amidst the hustle and bustle of cleaning activities, the gem had somehow escaped notice, much to Mendelson’s relief.
Reflecting on the incident, Mendelson marvelled at Taylor’s resilience and seemingly charmed existence. Despite the close call with losing the valuable diamond, he couldn’t help but attribute Taylor’s good fortune to her remarkable spirit and protective aura. This anecdote offers a glimpse into the thrilling and glamorous life of Elizabeth Taylor, where even a simple oversight could lead to a high-stakes adventure in the world of luxury and extravagance.
Elizabeth Taylor’s legacy continues to captivate audiences worldwide, not only for her exceptional talent on screen but also for her larger-than-life persona and enduring love affair with all things beautiful and precious. As her friend fondly recalls the incident of the forgotten Krupp Diamond, it serves as a testament to the unforgettable moments and remarkable experiences that defined the iconic actress’s unparalleled life.
Elizabeth Taylor’s timeless allure and glamorous escapades remain etched in the annals of Hollywood history, a shining example of elegance, charm, and unrivalled sophistication. Her affinity for exquisite jewelry, including the famous Krupp Diamond, symbolises not just material wealth but a deep connection to the world of art, fashion, and luxury that she inhabited with unmatched grace and style. Elizabeth Taylor may have left us, but her legacy lives on, inspiring generations to embrace the magic of cinema and the enchantment of true stardom.