Marilyn Monroe's Iconic Necklace Fetches Big Bucks At Auction

When it comes to timeless elegance, Marilyn Monroe was the queen of style. The 24-carat diamond necklace she famously wore while performing "Diamonds Are a Girl's Best Friend" in the 1953 film Gentlemen Prefer Blondes has recently been auctioned off by Christie’s in Hong Kong for a jaw-dropping 1 million pounds (approximately $1.28 million). It’s a stunning reminder of how the legacy of an icon can continue to shine brightly decades after their time.

From Mine to Stardom: The Necklace's Journey

Let me tell you the story of this dazzling piece. The canary-yellow diamond pendant, which originated from a mine in India during the 15th century, has quite the backstory. When Marilyn first laid eyes on it, she reportedly exclaimed, "It’s gorgeous!" Her excitement was palpable, and rightly so. This gem was acquired by Samuel H. Deutsch, the president of a Cleveland-based diamond-cutting firm, back in 1944. It wasn’t long before the necklace found its way into the spotlight, becoming an unforgettable part of Marilyn’s iconic performance.

The Necklace's Storied History

This legendary necklace had quite the journey before reaching its latest owner. After being sold to a Detroit jeweler in 1953, it eventually made its way to Christie’s, where it was auctioned off in 1990 for $297,000. While the identity of the most recent buyer remains a mystery, jewelry experts suggest that purchasing such a piece tied to Marilyn’s legacy could be considered a savvy move, given how the value of celebrity-related items tends to skyrocket over time.

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Marilyn’s Enduring Influence

Marilyn wasn’t just a star; she was a phenomenon whose impact continues to resonate in the world of collectibles and memorabilia. Her jewelry isn’t the only piece of her legacy fetching high prices at auctions. The iconic dress she wore while serenading President John F. Kennedy with "Happy Birthday, Mr. President" in 1962 sold for a staggering $4.8 million. Originally costing $12,000, the dress was so snug that Marilyn had to be sewn into it before her performance. Today, fans can admire this legendary gown at the Ripley’s Believe It or Not museum in Los Angeles.