Royal Engagement Rings: The Ultimate Trendsetters

By now it is doubtful there is anyone left in the world who does not know the sentimental story behind Kate Middleton’s royal engagement ring, which was Princess Diana’s ring. It was one of the most talked about things of the year. But she is not the only royal with a stunning ring, and there are even other rings that have quite a history behind them, although none, probably, as touching as Kate’s.

Prince Charles let Princess Diana choose her own ring when he proposed. She caused quite a scandal when she picked a ring that any one could buy out of a catalogue, because most royals had rings custom-made just for them. But the ring, a beautiful 18-carat sapphire surrounded by 14 brilliant cut diamonds, was so loved that then and now it inspired a rash of imitations. Although one cannot place a price on the sentimental value of this ring, it is estimated to be worth more than £300,000.

But that is not the only ring in the family with an heirloom history. Prince Charles gave Camilla a royal engagement ring that was left to him from his grandmother. The ring was originally given to her by her mother-in-law to celebrate the birth of Queen Elizabeth II. It is an art deco design; a platinum, emerald-cut diamond with diamond baguettes on both sides.

Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York, received a ruby ring, which Prince Andrew helped design. He chose this oval Burma ruby surrounded by white diamonds because it reminded him of her fiery red hair. It is set in 18-karat yellow gold on a white gold band. After their engagement, a flurry of demand for ruby engagement rings swept through Europe.

A royal engagement ring delights the general public for a few reasons. One is the promise of a royal wedding and all the excitement it brings. Another is because every time a royal engagement ring is introduced, especially one that has been custom made and is not normally available, it will not be long before couples are clamoring for less expensive imitations of the royal jewellery. Having a royal engagement ring is enough to make any girl feel like a princess.