The iconic sapphire and diamond engagement ring of Princess Diana has become one of the most famous pieces in her jewelry collection. But when Prince Charles proposed to her in 1981, this ring not only captured attention but also broke a long-standing royal tradition.
Unlike the norm, Diana, then Lady Diana Spencer, chose her own engagement ring. She selected it from a catalog of the jewelry house Garrard, a well-known supplier to the royal family. The ring featured a 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire surrounded by 14 diamonds and was valued at over $37,000 at the time.
This choice sparked controversy because, unlike other royal rings that were custom-made (unique pieces), this ring was available to the public. Thus, anyone with enough money could purchase the same ring as the future princess.
The ring's design was inspired by a sapphire brooch that belonged to Queen Victoria, a gift from her husband Prince Albert in 1840. She adored it so much that she wore it on her wedding dress as "something blue." This brooch was passed down through generations and was also worn by Queen Elizabeth II. When Charles presented Diana with several ring options, she chose this sapphire and diamond design, perhaps also to match her blue eyes.