Princess Diana’s engagement ring, featuring a 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire encircled by 14 diamonds, was valued at over $37,000 when it was first introduced. Unlike traditional royal engagement rings, it was accessible for public purchase. Diana proudly wore this piece throughout her marriage to the then-Prince Charles, who is now King and 77 years old, and even after their divorce in 1996.
This ring, initially seen as controversial, has transformed into one of the world’s most recognizable jewelry pieces. It was later worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales, who is 44, after being handed down within the royal family.
This choice, which initially drew skepticism within royal circles, is now regarded as a pivotal moment of personal expression.
A palace insider explained: “At that time, the ring represented a major break from royal tradition. Royal brides were expected to have unique, custom-made, and exclusive rings. Diana’s decision to choose a ring that anyone could potentially buy was considered almost unthinkable by some, but it also highlighted her independence and her tendency to defy convention.”
