Ads
The British royal family has amassed one of the most exquisite and valuable collections of jewelry in the world. From tiaras fit for a queen to engagement rings brimming with history, we always look forward to seeing what special pieces the royals will step out in for their various engagements.
One ring that has become particularly remarkable is that of Princess Catherine. As with many things, Catherine's engagement ring from Prince William has only increased in beauty and value with time, much like a fine wine. The sapphire and diamond design was originally selected by Prince Charles for his then-fiancée, the late Princess Diana, in 1981. Today, the ring is valued at over 10 times the estimated £28,000 price tag from 40 years ago.
Ads
Part of the ring's enduring appeal is undoubtedly due to its illustrious provenance. By choosing to give Catherine his mother's engagement ring after their engagement in 2010, William bestowed upon his bride-to-be not only a sentimental family heirloom but also a piece of royal history. Catherine has since said the ring makes her feel incredibly close to Diana as she raises her own family.
Through the years, Catherine has rarely commented publicly on the ring or her connection to Princess Diana. One of her first extended discussions of inheriting Diana's engagement ring was during the televised interview announcing her engagement to Prince William. She spoke humbly about the ring's deep significance and wanting Diana to be a part of her children's lives through the piece of jewelry.
Ads
Today, Catherine's sapphire sparkler easily tops lists of the most famous engagement rings in the world. With its large center round cut Ceylon sapphire surrounded by fourteen solitaire diamonds, it is estimated to be worth a staggering £300,000 or several times more than Queen Elizabeth's engagement ring.
Perhaps what has truly elevated Catherine's ring to icon status is how effortlessly she has embodied the role of royal style leader since joining the family. With her quiet confidence and appreciation for understated elegance, she gives the historic ring a sense of modern relevance in each new appearance. It is a credit to both her taste and Diana's legacy that a ring first seen over 40 years ago remains so striking today.
Ads
Of course, the realities of married life mean alterations have been made to ensure the ring's continued comfort and practicality for Catherine over the years. She is said to have discreetly adjusted the ring to prevent it from slipping following her engagement. And during a recent summer holiday glimpse of the family in Scotland, Catherine was spotted wearing not her sapphire ring but rather a more suited promise ring from William's university days that she wears for casual activities like playing with her children.
The promise ring in question is a rose gold Victorian band adorned with Catherine's birthstone garnets and William's birthstone pearls. While the reasoning for swapping to this low-key piece remains unclear, it seems a thoughtful choice for days spent out of the royal spotlight on vacation. Some also speculate it could mark a recent anniversary for the couple. Regardless, it shows Catherine's knack for selecting jewelry matched to each event and prioritizing sentiment over unnecessary splendor.
Ads
Perhaps most importantly, Princess Diana's sapphire engagement ring has become a symbol of her enduring legacy and the love she and Prince Charles shared, despite their marital difficulties. As the ring is passed down through the royal generations, it serves as an eternal reminder of Diana's place in the family. Through Catherine's stewardship, her style influence and devotion to her royal duties, the Princess of Wales lives on each time the ring sparkles in the spotlight of another important occasion. Its beauty and significance only grows with time, a testament to the impact Diana made and continues to have on the lives of those around her.
Post a Comment