Tiffany & Co.’s illustrious 287.42-carat yellow diamond, known as the Tiffany Diamond, has long been intertwined with cinematic history, particularly through its association with classic film icon Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.” Released on 5th October 1961, the movie, which draws from Truman Capote’s novella, features Hepburn as the unforgettable Holly Golightly. Although the diamond itself is not directly showcased during the film’s scenes, its significance remains woven into the glamour of the story.
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Celebrated for its iconic style, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” has captivated audiences since its release, largely due to Hepburn’s striking portrayal, which included her wearing an elegant black dress, opera gloves, and a chic beehive hairstyle. Tiffany & Co. plays a pivotal role in the film, being prominently featured. However, the only piece of jewellery to be officially associated with the production is the magnificent Tiffany Diamond.
The diamond possesses a fascinating history that dates back to 1877, when it was unearthed from the Kimberley Mine in South Africa. Charles Lewis Tiffany, the founder of Tiffany & Co., acquired the gemstone in 1898 for a then-colossal sum of $18,000. Following its purchase, the diamond was transported to Paris, where it underwent significant transformation, ultimately being cut down to 128.54 carats, complete with 82 facets, to enhance its fire and brilliance.
In terms of its association with the film, the Tiffany Diamond was specifically designed for promotional purposes. Although not worn by Hepburn during the movie itself, it was rather styled by Tiffany’s designer Jean Schlumberger into a “wreath of diamond ribbons.” Curiously, the glittering stone does make a brief appearance in a display case, situated in a highly secured setting, as the camera shifts focus from Hepburn’s enthralled expression.
Interestingly, the making of “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” also marked a milestone moment for Tiffany & Co., as it became the first film to be shot inside the brand’s flagship store in New York City. The production in October 1960 was an elaborate affair, involving an extensive crew of seventy-five technicians, numerous extras, and a strong presence of Tiffany executives and security personnel. Reports indicate that the cost of shooting on a Sunday was upwards of $45,000, necessitating double pay for many workers.
Hepburn’s legacy with the Tiffany Diamond is significant. To date, she is one of just four women known to have worn the jewel. The first was Mary Whitehouse, a Christian conservative and moral campaigner, who adorned the diamond at the 1957 Tiffany Ball in Rhode Island. Following Hepburn, pop culture icons have also had their moments with the stunning stone; Lady Gaga donned it at the 2019 Oscars in a dramatic Alexander McQueen gown, and Beyonc é made history two years later as the first Black woman to wear the diamond, showcasing it in Tiffany & Co.’s 2021 About Love Campaign.
As time marches on, “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” continues to capture the hearts of new generations, with Hepburn’s timeless role remaining a central figure in discussions about the film’s enduring influence. The film’s blend of fashion, romance, and setting in the glamorous confines of Tiffany & Co. ensures its place not only in cinematic history but also in the annals of fashion lore.
The captivating aura of the Tiffany Diamond serves to enhance this narrative further, standing as a symbol of luxury and elegance. It has transcended its physical form to become a part of cultural dialogue, often prompting conversations about the intersection of heritage, wealth, and representation in fashion and film. As we reflect on the legacy of both the film and its iconic star, the continued allure of the Tiffany Diamond complements the sparkle of a bygone era that still resonates today.