The historical drama on Netflix, The Crown’s portrayal of Diana in one season was quite interesting, to say the least. Princess Diana’s life continues to captivate everyone throughout the world. And more people now want to learn more about her than ever before. In the episodes of The Crown, we witnessed how Princess Diana’s engagement ring caused a stir in the royal family. Though Princess Diana’s sapphire ring (here is a replica) is undoubtedly the most famous engagement ring of all time, it didn’t quite fit the bill with the royal family.
Princess Diana has always been the talk of the town and so has her infamous sapphire engagement ring. But ever wondered why Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring received a place in the history of engagement rings?
We’ll take you through the story behind Princess Diana and her beautiful ring!
Princess Diana’s Engagement Ring
The Marguerite ring, most commonly known as Princess Diana’s engagement ring, is one of the most stunning rings in the world. It features a blue Ceylon sapphire that weighs a whopping 12 carats. The blue sapphire is set in 18 ct white gold and is surrounded by the most gorgeous fourteen diamonds.
Do you know how precious the royal ring is? Experts originally valued the sapphire engagement ring at a jaw-dropping $60,000. Today, they estimate its value at more than $400,000.
Surprised? We are too!
History Of the Ring
Prince Charles, not only the most eligible bachelor at the time, was also the heir to the throne. Buckingham Palace officially announced the engagement of Prince Charles and Diana Spencer on 24th February 1981. Defying tradition, the Princess of Wales chose her own sapphire engagement ring for the occasion.
We know that she chose the magnificent sapphire ring, but what’s the reason behind it?
Diana reportedly picked the sapphire ring because it reminded her of her mother’s engagement ring. But there are others who say that she chose the ring because of its large stone. In any case, we will never come to know the real reason.
The Big Controversy / The Royal Controversy
Princess Diana’s ring caused a stir in the royal family… but why?
Royal jewelry is meant to be unique, which means commoners do not have access to to jewels of similar designs. Princess Diana’s ring challenged the traditions that were followed by the royal family.
Garrard was the official crown jeweler of the United Kingdom back in the day. Diana choose the sapphire engagement ring from Garrard’s jewelry catalog rather than requesting a one-of-a-kind design, as was expected of her.
What was the big deal about this? It meant that ordinary people also have access to the same jewels as the royal family. While it may seem appropriate that the royal called “The People’s Princess” chose an engagement ring that was not exclusive to the royal family. The selection caused a royal controversy, which made Princess Diana’s ring one of the most loved jewels.
The New Owner of the Sapphire Ring
After Princess Diana’s tragic demise, the royal blue ring went in the name of her younger son, Prince Harry. The elder son, Prince William, was dating the Duchess of Cambridge, Kate Middleton, and so Prince Harry Gifted his mother’s ring to his elder brother to ask for the Duchess’s hand in marriage.
When Prince William officially announced his engagement in 2010, he spoke about the sapphire engagement ring, saying, “It’s very special, as Kate is very special. This was my way of making sure that my mother didn’t miss out on today.” We think Princess Diana must have showered her blessings on Prince William and his bride that day.
The interesting story of Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring truly makes her the “people’s queen” that she always wanted to be.
We have always wanted to feel like a queen and Princess Diana made it possible, even in the smallest of ways, don’t you think? Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring has inspired the whole line of jewelry from rings and earrings to pendants and bracelet charms. You can always get yourself Princess Diana’s ring and feel like royalty!
FAQ
1. Can I customize my own Princess Diana inspired ring?
Yes, you can! Our “Make Your Own” feature lets you create a custom sapphire engagement ring that matches your personal style. Simply choose a high-quality center stone and a halo setting to build a royal-inspired piece that is uniquely yours.
2. Why did the Royal Family call it the “Commoner’s Sapphire”?
Even though the ring was expensive, it appeared in a public sales catalogue. This meant anyone with enough money could buy the exact same ring as the Princess. Traditionally, royal rings are custom-made so that they remain one-of-a-kind and exclusive to the family.
3. Was the sapphire engagement ring originally meant for Prince Harry?
Yes, it was. After their mother passed away, the brothers chose keepsakes and Harry actually picked the ring while William chose a gold watch. However, when William prepared to propose to Kate, Harry selflessly offered the ring to his brother so it could one day sit on the throne.
4. What makes a “Ceylon” sapphire different from other blue gems?
The ring features a Ceylon sapphire, which comes from Sri Lanka. These stones are famous for their bright, “cornflower blue” colour and excellent clarity. Most royal sapphires are dark, but Diana’s stone stands out because it stays vibrant and blue even in low light.
5. How did the ring change the jewelry industry?
Before Diana, most brides only wanted diamond engagement rings. After her engagement, the “Diana Effect” caused a global surge in gemstone sales. To this day, the sapphire and diamond halo is the most requested “non-diamond” engagement ring style in the world.
Also read: Princess Diana’s Most Iconic Jewelry moments
