In the world of fashion and luxury, jewelry isn’t just accessories: it’s symbols of power, elegance, and personality. Each piece of jewelry tells a story, reflects an era and, above all, expresses the essence of the wearer.
As a jewelry brand, at Breil we are also fascinated by how precious accessories can define and enrich a woman’s image, transforming a simple look into a style statement.
Iconic jewelry not only beautifies, but often becomes an integral part of a person’s identity: throughout history, many famous women have used jewelry to affirm their uniqueness, status, and style. These pieces, often extraordinary in design and value, have in fact become synonymous with the personalities who wore them, making them even more fascinating and memorable.
In this article, we’ll explore the story of ten iconic women and the jewelry that made them famous. From Audrey Hepburn to Beyoncé, every woman has used jewelry to express her personality and leave an indelible mark on the fashion world. We will celebrate their uniqueness and unmistakable style, showing how jewelry can be much more than just ornaments: they are true emblems of identity and status.
Let’s discover together how these iconic jewels defined their images and why they continue to inspire generations of women around the world. And, as always, we’re ready to help you find the perfect piece of jewelry that tells your story and celebrates your unique style!
- Audrey Hepburn
- Elizabeth Taylor
- Grace Kelly
- Madonna
- Lady Diana
- Jackie Kennedy
- Coco Chanel
- Marilyn Monroe
- Rihanna
- Beyoncé
1. Audrey Hepburn: The Icon of Elegance
When you think of Audrey Hepburn, it’s impossible not to remember her memorable appearance in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”. The film, released in 1961, cemented Hepburn as a timeless style icon, and her black Givenchy dress became legendary. However, in addition to the impeccable clothing, it was her jewelry that really attracted attention: a pearl necklace that made her look unforgettable.
The pearl necklace worn by Audrey Hepburn as Holly Golightly consists of multiple strands that elegantly fall around the neck, with a large diamond brooch in the center. This jewel not only added a touch of luxury to her look, but also helped define her character as sophisticated and enigmatic.
The pearls, already known for their classical elegance, have been elevated to a new level thanks to Hepburn. Before the film, pearls were already appreciated as a symbol of purity and refinement, often associated with very classic and generally formal looks. After “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” pearls have become synonymous with modern chic and timeless elegance.
But it’s not just the film that has immortalized Audrey Hepburn as an icon of elegance: even in real life, Hepburn had an incredible collection of jewelry, many of them gifts from friends and colleagues who admired her talent and beauty. Among these, pieces created by fine jewelry designers such as Givenchy and Cartier stand out, reflecting its impeccable taste.
One of the most famous pieces in her personal collection was a diamond ring, a gift from her second husband Andrea Dotti. This ring, with its simple and refined design, perfectly embodied Hepburn’s style: elegant, but never ostentatious. Hepburn in fact preferred jewels that enhanced her natural beauty without overpowering it.
Her love of discreet yet high-quality jewelry meant that Hepburn was often seen wearing simple diamond earrings and thin gold bracelets. These accessories, although less flashy than those worn in his films, are still synonymous with his inimitable class and style.
Audrey Hepburn demonstrated that jewelry can be much more than just ornaments: it can tell a story, convey emotion, and become an integral part of a person’s identity. Her ability to gracefully carry both simple jewelry and more elaborate pieces has made her an inspiration to entire generations of women seeking timeless elegance.
At Breil, we’ve been inspired by her ability to transform every piece of jewelry into a key part of her look, and we strive to offer jewelry that can help every woman feel just as unique and refined.
If you feel an affinity for Audrey Hepburn’s unmistakable style and want to find the perfect piece of jewelry for you, Breil’s steel-crafted pieces embellished with delicate natural freshwater pearls are the ideal choice: opt for the Magnetica System Glacier elements or the jewelry from the Tetra collection, which capture in a modern key the essence of the sophistication that has made Audrey a timeless style icon.
2. Elizabeth Taylor: the Queen of Diamonds
Elizabeth Taylor, known not only for her extraordinary film career but also for her stormy love life and passion for jewelry, is considered one of the greatest jewelry collectors of the 20th century. His personal collection included some of the most famous and precious pieces in the world.
One of Elizabeth Taylor’s most famous jewels is the “Taylor-Burton Diamond,” a 69.42-carat diamond, perfectly cut and with unparalleled brilliance. This extraordinary diamond was given to her by her then-husband Richard Burton in 1969, and the history of this jewel is as fascinating as its beauty: Burton purchased the diamond for over a million dollars, an astronomical sum for the time, and his gift to Taylor became one of the most talked-about events in Hollywood.
The “Taylor-Burton Diamond” was worn by Elizabeth Taylor for the first time in public during Princess Grace of Monaco’s fortieth birthday, an event that brought together the international elite. Taylor had the diamond mounted on a pendant, making it the centerpiece of a spectacular necklace. This jewel not only underscored her status as a luxury and glamorous icon, but also became a symbol of her love affair with Burton.
In addition to the “Taylor-Burton Diamond”, Taylor owned many other notable pieces. Among them, the famous “La Peregrina Pearl”, a natural pearl discovered in the 16th century. This pearl, which has a fascinating history of European kings and queens, was given to Taylor by Burton in 1969 as a Valentine’s Day gift. Taylor had the necklace redesigned, adding pearls and rubies, creating a jewel that combined history, romance, and beauty in one extraordinary piece.
Another notable jewel in Elizabeth Taylor’s collection was the “Krupp Diamond,” a 33.19-carat diamond ring that Burton gave her in 1968. This ring became one of his favorites, often worn on many public and private occasions. The “Krupp Diamond” represented not only Burton’s love for Taylor, but also his passion for rare and unique jewelry.
Elizabeth Taylor’s passion for jewelry was not just about owning precious objects, but represented a true form of art and personal expression. Each piece in her collection told a story and reflected a special moment in her life: Taylor has always said that jewelry was not just accessories for her, but part of her identity and self-expression.
Elizabeth Taylor was also a pioneer in using her love of jewelry for philanthropic purposes. In 2002, she auctioned off many of her jewelry pieces to raise money for the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, proving that luxury can be put at the service of important causes.
Elizabeth Taylor’s life and extraordinary jewelry collection continue to inspire generations of fashion enthusiasts and jewelry collectors. His ability to transform each piece into a personal statement and a celebration of his unique style remains an iconic example for all of us.
At Breil, we are inspired by her ability to turn each jewel into a personal tale and are committed to offering proposals that can tell your story with the same intensity and beauty.
To add a pop of color and sparkle to your looks, choose the Magnetica Mars, Overseas, and Sea & Sky styles.
3. Grace Kelly: The Princess of Luxury
Grace Kelly, a Hollywood actress and Princess of Monaco, is a figure who embodies glamour and timeless sophistication. Her transformation from a movie star to a member of the European royal family captivated the entire world, and her jewelry became symbols of her sophisticated and regal style. Of all, the diamond engagement ring given to her by Prince Rainier III of Monaco, remains one of the most iconic and admired pieces in her collection.
Before becoming the Princess of Monaco, Grace Kelly was already an established Hollywood star, known for her talent and ethereal beauty. When Prince Rainier III of Monaco proposed marriage in 1955, he gave her a wonderful engagement ring: a magnificent 10.48-carat emerald-cut diamond, surrounded by two baguette diamonds, which has become a symbol of their love.
This ring not only marked Grace Kelly’s transition from the world of cinema to that of nobility, but also became an emblem of her refinement. The choice of an emerald-cut diamond, known for its clean lines and timeless elegance, perfectly reflected Grace’s style: simple, yet incredibly sophisticated. The ring was created by the renowned Cartier jewelry company, which added an extra layer of prestige to the piece.
In addition to the engagement ring, Grace Kelly owned an equally extraordinary jewelry collection. Among them, a diamond and ruby necklace that she wore during her royal wedding in 1956. This necklace, with its opulent design and sparkling allure, became a symbol of her status as a princess and her impeccable taste for fashion. Grace Kelly’s jewelry was always carefully chosen to complement her elegant and regal style, making her one of the most admired women of her time.
Another notable piece in his collection was his Cartier diamond bracelet, which he often wore on official and private occasions. The bracelet, with its classic design and impeccable shine, was the perfect complement to her elegant dresses and public appearances. Grace Kelly’s ability to combine precious jewelry with her simple, refined style made every piece she wore instantly admired and then imitated: her timeless style and ability to gracefully carry both modern and classic jewelry made her an icon of elegance.
If Grace Kelly’s style represents the height of iconicity and refinement for you too, you can only adore the Stylize collection, perfect for a style with a vintage and hyper-sophisticated flavour.
And for a subtle touch of light and evergreen elegance on your wrist, discover our Tennis bracelets.
4. Madonna: The Queen of Rebel Pop and Glamour
Madonna, as well as “the Queen of Pop”, is an icon who has revolutionized music, fashion and popular culture. With her bold style and indomitable spirit, Madonna redefined the idea of femininity and independence, using jewelry as a means to express her rebellious personality and self-determination. From the 1980s to today, its accessories have often made headlines, becoming symbols of an era and a cultural revolution.
In the 1980s, Madonna introduced a new way of wearing jewelry, as provocative as it was iconic: her looks featured oversized crosses, multiple chains, rubber bracelets, and hoop earrings, often eclectically blended together. One of the most memorable examples is the music video for “Like a Virgin,” where Madonna wears a white wedding dress paired with lace gloves, chain belts, and a large cross.
Madonna’s style continued to evolve in the ‘90s, when she adopted a more glamorous approach, but always with a rebellious touch: just remember her iconic look for the “Blond Ambition” tour, in which she sported the “cone bra” designed for her by Jean-Paul Gaultier.
In the 2000s, Madonna proved that her sense of style and glamour knew no bounds. A significant example is the look she sported during the 2017 Met Gala, where she wore a patterned dress by Jeremy Scott, paired with a multi-layering of necklaces of various sizes, shapes and colors with matching oversized earrings.
Madonna’s bold use of clothing and jewelry has inspired generations of women to express themselves through unique and powerful looks, and her ability to combine elements from different cultures and historical periods has made her style unmistakable: each piece of jewelry is a statement, a piece of her identity, and a part of her ongoing evolution as an artist and style icon.
A woman of character, an eclectic artist with revolutionary principles and who is not afraid to be bold: certainly a Breil woman.
Our jewelry is in fact designed for women who, like Madonna, wish to express their personality to the maximum without fear of being noticed.
For this reason, the ideal style to create with Madonna-inspired Breil jewelry is definitely the multi-layering trend, pairing large volumes with thin chains with colorful details: create your own unique mix with Candy vibes pop, Hexagonia geometries, or iconic Hoop chains.
5. Lady Diana: The Icon of Elegance and Heart
Lady Diana, the Princess of Wales, remains one of the most beloved and admired figures in modern history. With her unmistakable style and humanitarian commitment, Diana won the hearts of millions around the world. Her jewels, many of them linked to significant moments in her life, reflect her grace and elegance.
One of the most iconic jewels associated with Lady Diana is her engagement ring. Consisting of a 12-carat oval sapphire surrounded by 14 diamonds, the ring was personally chosen by Diana from a catalogue by Garrard, the historic jewellery of the British royal family.
Today, this ring is worn by Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, as a sign of continuity and respect for Diana’s memory.
Another significant piece in Lady Diana’s collection is her Spencer tiara, worn on her wedding day to Prince Charles in 1981. The tiara, a family piece passed down from generation to generation, features a delicate floral design with diamonds set in it. This piece not only added a touch of additional femininity to her wedding dress, but also represented the importance of family traditions.
Diana was also known for her love of pearls, often seen in her everyday looks and official appearances. One of her most famous necklaces was a three-strand pearl necklace with a large diamond clasp, often worn at official events. This jewel exemplified her ability to combine classic elegance with a unique personal touch.
One of the most memorable moments involving Diana’s jewels was during her official visit to Sydney in 1983, where she wore an emerald and diamond necklace as a headband. This bold and innovative look attracted worldwide attention, demonstrating his willingness to experiment and redefine the conventions of real fashion.
Lady Diana not only wore jewelry to complement her style, but also used it as a means of communicating and supporting causes dear to her: during her numerous humanitarian missions, she often wore jewelry given to her by the countries she visited, thus expressing her respect and solidarity with all the people she met.
Lady Diana’s legacy lives on through the jewels she wore and the lasting impact of her humanitarian actions. Her ability to combine elegance and concreteness has made her a timeless icon.
Lady Diana’s story demonstrated that jewelry can be much more than just accessories; it can tell stories, connect people, and be a framework in the lives of those who want to make a meaningful difference in the world. Her legacy continues to inspire women around the world to find their voice and do good, never giving up their innate elegance and grace.
Among Breil’s offerings, the discreet jewel watch will be a must-have to inspire you with its style: discover the Carrè and Darling models.
As for jewelry, perfectly classic and at the same time modern and chic are the Tetra earrings, which revisit the concept of “headband”, making it square and shiny thanks to the presence of micro crystals. In a contemporary key, it is perfect to combine with other collections with a more particular sparkle.
Another combination with a classic and chic style but perfectly in step with the times, is the one between the La Bulle elements of Magnetica System, characterised by elegant gold-coloured polished steel spheres that follow one another, which together create a very luminous choker, and the B Whisper statement necklaces.
6. Jackie Kennedy: The Icon of Presidential Style and Elegance
Jackie Kennedy, former First Lady of the United States, was an icon of style and elegance who left an indelible mark on American fashion and culture. Also known for her refined taste in jewelry, Jackie combined classic pieces with a touch of modernity, creating a style that is still emulated and admired today. Her jewelry, often tied to significant moments in her life, reflects her sophisticated personality and status as a global icon.
One of the most famous pieces in Jackie Kennedy’s collection is the pearl necklace she wore frequently during the presidential term of her husband, John F. Kennedy. The necklace, composed of three strands of pearls of increasing size, has become synonymous with her elegant and feminine style. The pearls, a classic symbol of sophistication, were perfect to complete Jackie’s flawless look, both at official events and on more informal occasions.
Another iconic piece of jewelry is her engagement ring, given to her by John F. Kennedy. This stunning ring features an emerald-cut diamond next to a marquise-cut diamond, framed by a series of diamond baguettes.
Jackie Kennedy was also a great lover of bracelets: the gold chain one she often wore has in fact become an iconic piece of her wardrobe. This bracelet, simple yet extremely elegant, was a gift from her second husband, Aristotle Onassis, representing their bond and their life together. Jackie knew how to choose jewelry that not only enhanced her beauty, but could also have profound personal meaning.
Another notable piece in his collection is his Cartier Tank jewel watch. This watch, with its rectangular design and leather strap, is a perfect example of the mix of practicality and luxury that characterized Jackie’s style.
Jackie Kennedy was also known for her love of pins. A notable example is the leaf-shaped one from Tiffany & Co., which she often wore to add a touch of elegance to her clothes. This brooch, with its intricate design and sparkling diamonds, perfectly represented its ability to add refined and luxurious details to simple looks.
Jackie’s passion for jewelry was not just a matter of vanity, but an integral part of her public and private identity.
Jackie Kennedy’s influence on fashion and jewelry persists today: her ability to elevate every look with well-chosen accessories is an example for anyone who wants to express their personality through jewelry too!
At Breil, we are inspired by its timeless elegance and attention to detail, creating jewels that not only enhance external beauty, but also tell a personal and meaningful story: the ideal must-have in this case too is the Carrè watch, a small jewel that dresses the wrist with elegance and discretion, featuring a rectangular gold-colored steel case framing a glossy white dial, paired with a premium satin-effect blue leather strap.
7. Coco Chanel: The Fashion and Jewelry Innovator
Coco Chanel, one of the most influential figures in fashion history, transformed the fashion world with her revolutionary style and pioneering spirit. In addition to her famous clothing and accessories, Chanel has also left an indelible mark on the world of jewelry, introducing innovative designs and bold concepts that have redefined the concept of luxury and elegance.
One of the most iconic jewels associated with Coco Chanel is the pearl necklace. Chanel revolutionized the use of pearls, traditionally considered jewels reserved for the noble class, transforming them into a symbol of timeless elegance accessible to all women. Her famous multi-strand pearl necklace, often worn with casual-cut dresses like the classic Chanel jacket, embodied the effortlessly chic style she promoted.
Chanel has also introduced new ideas to the world of jewelry, such as the innovative use of crystal and artificial materials. His famous colored resin bracelets and necklaces, often decorated with pearls or rhinestones, added a touch of modernity and boldness to his style. These pieces of jewelry, while made from less traditional materials, became instantly recognizable as Chanel’s work, testifying to her ability to create distinctive and timeless designs.
Another innovation Chanel introduced was the introduction of floral-themed jewelry: Chanel often incorporated floral motifs into her jewelry, drawing inspiration from nature to create elegant and romantic accessories. For example, the famous Camelia bracelets, inspired by her favorite flower, have become symbols of her iconic and recognizable style.
Chanel’s passion for jewelry was not only a matter of aesthetics, but also of meaning and philosophy: Chanel believed that jewelry should be functional as well as beautiful, and that it should express the wearer’s unique personality and style. Her jewelry was therefore designed to be worn and lived in, rather than relegated to a safe.
Coco Chanel has transformed the world of jewelry with her innovative style and revolutionary philosophy. Its bold and timeless designs continue to inspire fashion and jewelry today.
If you want to be inspired by Coco Chanel and her revolutionary spirit, you can only discover Breil’s transformist collection: Magnetica System better.
The jewel transforms with you: thanks to its numerous elements and magnetic closures, they can take on ever-changing shapes and styles. Magnetica System can be worn in multiple turns around the neck or slid long to the waist. All you have to do is experiment and find your unique combination!
And to celebrate his passion for black & white pairing, choose the B Rocks collection, which pairs hematite with pearls.
8. Marilyn Monroe: The Icon of Sensuality and Glamour
Marilyn Monroe, a timeless icon of sensuality and glamour, enchanted the world with her breathtaking beauty and magnetic charisma. In addition to her unforgettable roles on the big screen, Marilyn has been admired for her unique and seductive style, with which she has often sported dazzling and bold jewelry. Her accessories and fashion choices helped define an era and influence the fashion and jewelry world for decades.
One of the most iconic jewels associated with Marilyn Monroe is her famous diamond rivière. This necklace, featuring a continuous row of glowing diamonds, has become a symbol of the luxury and glamour associated with Monroe. The necklace has been worn on numerous public occasions and red carpet appearances, helping to capture the imagination of millions of people around the world.
In addition to diamonds, Marilyn Monroe loved wearing jewelry that enhanced her femininity and sex appeal. Drop earrings, often adorned with colorful gems like rubies or emeralds, added a touch of color and glamour to her looks. Marilyn knew how to make her face stand out with jewelry that caught the light and lit her eyes.
Another hallmark of Marilyn’s wardrobe was her love of over-and-showy bracelets. He often wore chain or loose-link bracelets that elegantly wrapped around his wrist, adding a touch of “drama” and charm to his style. These bracelets emphasized her flowing, sensual movements, highlighting her magnetic presence on and off screen.
Marilyn Monroe was also known for wearing necklaces with heart or star pendants, symbols of her romantic and dreamy personality. These necklaces added a touch of sweetness and femininity to her looks, offering a charming contrast to her sensual and seductive diva aura.
Another piece of jewelry that left an indelible mark was her diamond engagement ring, donated by her third husband, Arthur Miller. This ring, a classic yet extraordinary solitaire, symbolized his eternal love and his desire for a life full of light and splendor.
Marilyn Monroe’s passion for jewelry was a fundamental part of her public and private identity. Her accessories were not simple, but expressions of her vibrant personality and savoir faire in being admired: jewelry has the power to transform a woman, to make her feel special and desired, and this was reflected in the pieces she chose to wear.
Let’s face it, Marilyn Monroe remains a timeless icon of sensuality and glamour, whose style and beauty continue to inspire and captivate the world today.
Her jewelry, carefully chosen and boldly worn, was an integral part of her irresistible charm and magnetic personality.
If we had to think of Marilyn while browsing the Breil catalogue, we would definitely choose the Plissè collection: deliberately important and oversized but very elegant, it is made up of stainless steel jewels with extremely sinuous and feminine lines, which follow the face and illuminate the features.
9. Rihanna: The Icon of Versatility and Audacity
Rihanna, an icon of pop music and fashion, has taken the world by storm with her eclectic talent, bold personality, and unique style. In addition to her musical achievements, Rihanna has been admired for her revolutionary style and ability to continually reinvent herself. Her jewelry, often bold and innovative, reflects her strong personality and passion for excellence.
One of the defining characteristics of Rihanna’s jewelry has been her ability to mix pieces of fine jewelry with more accessible and fashionable creations. In fact, Rihanna is not afraid to experiment with different materials and styles, creating looks that are both glamorous and super eclectic. Her way of wearing jewelry in unconventional ways inspires her to explore her creativity and individuality.
An iconic Rihanna must-have are the earrings, which are often flashy and extravagant. She wore oversized, hoop earrings with large gemstones and bold geometric designs. These earrings, which can be both high fashion jewelry and jewelry, have become a signature of her style.
Rihanna has also been known to wear many bracelets, often overlapping them to create a quirky and unique look. From stiff, gold bracelets to colorful fabric bracelets, Rihanna has demonstrated her ability to mix and match different styles to create a unique look.
Another distinctive feature of Rihanna’s style is the rings, where we find a passion for layering: the artist loves to layer different rings on multiple fingers, creating eye-catching color and style combinations. From minimalist designs to more elaborate pieces, her rings reflect her eclectic choices, allowing her to express her bold personality. The same goes for necklaces: flashy pendants, chokers, and oversized chains, often worn prominently to enhance the décolleté.
Rihanna has also shown a passion for personalized and unique jewelry, often commissioning special pieces that reflect her personality and interests: she has collaborated with world-renowned jewelry designers to create custom pieces that represent her innovative style. These unique pieces of jewelry added a touch of exclusivity and originality to her iconic looks.
For fans of bold, distinctive earrings, Breil is spoiled for choice: why not experiment with different versions of the iconic hoop?
The geometric one of Tetra, hexagonal of Hexagonia, bold and chunky of Hoop or sinuous and feminine of B Whisper.
10. Beyoncé: The Queen of Modern Luxury
Beyoncé, a global icon of music and style, is known for her extraordinary stage presence, her distinctive voice, and her commitment to women’s empowerment. In addition to her musical career, Beyoncé is also a leading figure in fashion, with impeccable taste and a predilection for luxurious jewelry. Her elegant and glamorous looks, often embellished with extravagant jewelry, make her a true queen of modern luxury.
One of the distinctive features of Beyoncé’s jewelry is her ability to combine pieces of fine jewelry with unique and innovative creations. Beyoncé isn’t afraid to “overdo it”, often wearing statement jewelry that draws attention and adds a touch of grandeur to her looks. Her bold choices made her jewelry an integral part of her superstar image.
Beyoncé loves wearing flashy, extravagant earrings, which often become the focal point of her looks. From sparkling pendants to oversized hoops, geometric designs to floral motifs, her earrings are a mix of elegance and boldness. Beyoncé knows how to choose earrings that capture light and accentuate her features.
Beyoncé loves wearing long, eye-catching necklaces that accentuate the femininity of her looks. She has a predilection for jewelry with large gemstones and elaborate designs, which emphasize her charisma and stage presence.
From stiff to chain bracelets, from minimalist designs to whimsical pieces, her bracelets are also a statement of style and personality, often worn together in layering: Beyoncé knows exactly how to mix and match different styles and materials to create unique and memorable looks!
Beyoncé loves wearing large rings with elaborate designs that capture attention and add a touch of glamour to her look. From classic solitaries to the most eccentric creations, her rings are an expression of her leading personality and passion for luxury.
Incontestably, Beyoncé is a true queen of modern luxury.
Her jewelry, with its boldness and opulence, is certainly a fundamental part of her appeal and the success of her style.
To draw inspiration from Beyoncé’s looks, you can choose the eye-catching and shiny B Wired waterfall earrings, the sinuous Retwist bracelet (perfect when worn on both wrists), and the sensual Flow necklace, perfect for pairing with a blazer or a deep v-neck dress.
'/%3E%3C/svg%3E){kind=small}
