What was the “model cult” Eternal Values?

In Bring Me the Beauties, former members of Eternal Values described an initially liberating atmosphere that became increasingly oppressive, as von Mierers imposed strict diets, urged them to sever connections with their families, and—after initially promoting abstinence—pressured them into casual sexual encounters.

As he profited from his teachings by selling cassettes, videos, books, supplements, psychic readings, and more, he encouraged his followers to purchase “gem prescriptions,” including sapphires and other precious stones that he claimed had healing properties.

In 1990, the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office began investigating von Mierers for selling gems based on inflated appraisals.

Model Jacki Adams, who testified to prosecutors at that time, stated that she paid von Mierers over $100,000, remarking in Bring Me the Beauties, “It was astonishing how much spirituality cost.”

Von Mierers was never charged with any crimes before his death and told Vanity Fair that former followers who accused him of fraud were “jealous, sick, twisted people.”