We all know that diamonds are a girl's best friend, but Marilyn Monroe is far from the only famous figure to wax lyrical about precious gems. Across the decades, actors, writers and stars have offered witty, romantic and occasionally cheeky reflections on jewellery. Their words capture exactly why these little treasures hold such an outsized place in our hearts. This explainer gathers some of history's most memorable jewellery quotes, with a nod to the real gems you can find in Hatton Garden, London's diamond quarter.
Quotes on the Romance of Diamonds
The actress Mae West, who adored diamonds long before Monroe, once said she always felt a gift diamond shone so much better than one bought for oneself. It is a charming sentiment, though many would argue a diamond you choose for yourself shines just as brightly.
Mark Twain offered a more practical view, suggesting it is better to have old second-hand diamonds than none at all. He had a point, since antique and pre-owned pieces often turn out to be the most beautiful in a collection.
Both quotes capture a timeless truth, that the romance of a diamond lies as much in its story as in its sparkle.
Quotes on Jewellery and Style
The figure skater and film star Sonja Henie had it right when she joked that jewellery takes people's minds off your wrinkles. Beneath the humour lies a real truth, that a beautiful piece can make you feel wonderful at any age.
The writer Graham Greene once quipped that fine goldwork in his dentures was the only jewellery a man could wear that women fully appreciated. He sold men short, of course, since cufflinks, designer watches and rings all look superb on a man.
These lines remind us that jewellery has always been about confidence and self-expression as much as adornment.
Fun fact: The line diamonds are a girl's best friend comes from a song written for the 1949 musical Gentlemen Prefer Blondes, made world-famous by Marilyn Monroe in the 1953 film.
Finding Your Own Favourite Gem
What every one of these quotes shares is a love of jewellery's power to delight, comfort and define us. Whether you favour diamonds, coloured stones or vintage finds, there is a piece out there that feels truly yours.
Perhaps the best way to find your own favourite is to see and try pieces in person. From classic solitaires to characterful antique jewellery, the choice in the quarter is vast.
So which famous quote is your favourite? Whatever it is, the friendly jewellers of Hatton Garden can help you find a gem worth quoting about.
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