Discovered in South Africa in 1966, the famed Taylor-Burton diamond was originally 241 carats before Winston cut it into a pear-shaped 69 carat stone. Actor Richard Burton bought the lavish gift for his wife Elizabeth Taylor, which she wore to the 1970 Academy Awards. Taylor later auctioned off the stunning gem after their divorce, using the proceeds to build a hospital in Botswana.
The Brilliance of Harry Winston: 10 Statement Pieces
TIME spotlights the best of the brand synonymous with adorning the stars