Hollywood actress Margot Robbie attended the Los Angeles premiere of Wuthering Heights which took place on January 28 2026 to showcase her new film and display her stunning jewellery collection. Robbie appeared on the red carpet wearing the iconic Taj Mahal diamond necklace, a historic piece once owned by Hollywood legend Elizabeth Taylor. The elaborate piece, which designers crafted with a Cartier gold and ruby chain, became one of the most discussed elements during the entire evening.
The necklace valued at around $8 million (approx. ₹74 crore) was originally introduced to the world as a gift from Richard Burton to Elizabeth Taylor on her 40th birthday in 1972. Robbie described the piece’s history as “very romantic” and fitting for the event, connecting its legacy to the emotional depth of the classic novel adaptation.
Deep History Behind the “Taj Mahal” Diamond
The necklace became known to most people because of its connection to Elizabeth Taylor yet its history goes back several hundred years. The historical records establish that the heart-shaped diamond originated during the Mughal period of India and it contains a Parsee inscription which means “Love is Everlasting” and includes the name of Empress Nur Jahan who received the jewel from her husband Emperor Shah Jahangir. The jewel was eventually transmitted to Shah Jahan who used it to honor his beloved Mumtaz Mahal, the woman who inspired the construction of the Taj Mahal monument.
After its early history the diamond passed through multiple owners until it reached Western ownership because Cartier acquired the diamond in the 20th century and added more gemstones before Burton gave it to Taylor. The piece sold at Christie’s auction in 2011 for $8.8 million which established a new sales record and brought the necklace back into the spotlight decades after Taylor’s passing.
Internet Reacts: Pride and Outrage
Robbie’s red carpet outfit selection generated multiple online reactions especially from Indian internet users who identified the garment’s strong connection to Indian heritage. The audience reacted to the event through two different perspectives, which they used to describe the event as either a fashionable tribute or a demonstration of cultural heritage that failed to recognize its historical roots. The comments included two main demands, which requested the jewel’s return to India and criticized trending stories for their excessive emphasis on the Western Hollywood connection.
Some users pointed out the irony of highlighting the piece as “Elizabeth Taylor’s necklace” while overlooking its centuries-old origin in India’s Mughal empire. The event became an opportunity for people to discuss three topics which included the historical value of artifacts and the permanent impact of colonialism and the moral questions surrounding celebrity use of high-end jewelry at international events.
Criticism Over Awareness and Respect
Commenters accused Margot Robbie of failing to acknowledge the true origins of the necklace, calling her actions extremely disrespectful. By referring to it solely as “Elizabeth Taylor’s necklace” and vaguely mentioning its earlier Mughal connection, critics argued that she ignored its royal and cultural significance. Many highlighted the arrogance implied in wearing a personal royal gift at a public red carpet event, viewing the gesture as inappropriate and tone-deaf.
Broader Debate on Cultural Heritage
The dispute about Robbie’s necklace brings forward ongoing discussions which examine the ownership rights of historical artifacts. Critics observed that numerous Indian imperial treasures and jewels have been taken by foreign private collectors which has led to ongoing arguments about cultural repatriation and the responsibilities of museums and auction houses to either protect or profit from heritage artifacts.
Some observers praised Robbie’s fashion choices because they showed Hollywood glamour, while others required people to understand the special moments through complete knowledge of the jewellery’s background and cultural value. The online discussion about Wuthering Heights remains active until the film becomes available to more viewers.
