Watch CBS News

Preview: Elizabeth Taylor Auction At Christie's

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- It's an exclusive auction so rare, Christie's actually charged admission for the exhibit.

Christie's Auction House is hosting an exhibit of Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor's possessions from Saturday through December 12, when the auction begins.

Over 2,000 of Taylor's belongings will be on display.

"She wore everything. She wore the jewels, she wore the fashion, she wore everything. This was a way of life for Elizabeth Taylor," said Rahul Kadakia of Christie's.

Among the jeweled exhibits is one of Taylor's favorite pieces: a ruby and diamond Cartier set. A gift from her third husband, film producer Mike Todd, it is worth between $2 and $3 million.

Also on display, an anything-but-average pearl and diamond necklace.

"The most perfect, largest and historic natural pearl drop that's in private hands," said Kadakia.

As for the Elizabeth Taylor diamond, it's on display as well. In fact, it has its own wall.

"Thirty-three carat, D-color, potentially flawless, purchased in 1968 at auction by Richard Burton for $300,000," Kadakia.

As for fashion, the exhibit sports beaded Versace jackets, 80s over the top looks, and Taylor's famous wedding dresses.

The starlet was married eight times to seven different husbands. She married co-star Richard Burton twice.

The dress she wore to their first wedding will be on the auction block. The yellow short dress was inspired by her role as Cleopatra, where the two fell in love.

Also on display costumes from the 1963 movie.

"She had this great eye. She had great taste. She had great fashion. It's just something she lived
with," Kadakia said.

When it comes to Taylor, there's glitz and glamor, but also a woman who's loves and work may just have been her biggest treasure.

Tickets cost $30 with proceeds, including those from smaller items purchased online, will go to the Elizabeth Taylor Aids Foundation.

What did you think of Elizabeth Taylor? Sound off in our comments section below...

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.