Kate Middleton engagement ring is one of the few stunning pieces of jewelry that reminds us of the late Princess Diana. Here, we will explore everything you need to know about this iconic ring.
Details on Kate Middleton’s Engagement Ring
It’s been over a decade since Prince William and Kate Middleton’s engagement. But her stunning engagement ring is still a conversation piece even today. The ring’s center stone is an oval Ceylon sapphire that weighs 12 carats. The sapphire is surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds, making the already beautiful sapphire even more radiant and special. The ring sits on an 18k white gold band.
The History of Kate Middleton Engagement Ring
Kate Middleton Engagement ring has a fascinating history. And, no, it doesn’t start with Princess Diana and King Charles III. The inspiration behind this royal bauble dates back to the middle 1800s when Prince Albert asked a respected jeweler in Britain to craft a brooch for his wife-to-be, Queen Victoria. He specified that the jewel should have sapphires and diamonds as the primary stones.
Sapphires have always been a preferred gemstone for royal women. They are believed to protect them from envy, harm, and evil spirits. In the middle age, the clergy used them to symbolize heaven, and the commoners thought the gemstone would bring divine acts.
Queen Victoria loved the brooch so much that she decided to wear it as her “something blue” on her wedding dress. In fact, it was one of her favorite jewelry pieces, and she wore it until her husband’s passing in 1861.
In her will, Queen Victoria declared the brooch an heirloom of the crown. And it has been worn by every queen ever since. This includes Queen Alexandria, Queen Mary, Queen Elizabeth, and Queen Elizabeth II. Queen Elizabeth II was seen donning the royal bauble on various royal occasions, but perhaps the most notable occasion was during the Royal Ascot in 2015.
How Princess Diana Got Her Ring
It is said that this royal wedding gift immensely inspired King Charles III when he was searching for the perfect engagement ring for Princess Diana. He went to the jeweler, Garrard, and when he saw the engagement ring Kate Middleton now wears, he ensured it was included in the collection to be presented to Princess Diana in preparation for the proposal.
He then asked the Lady Diana to choose her own ring, and she went for the iconic royal engagement ring that currently sits on Kate Middleton’s finger. Reportedly, Diana chose the sapphire ring because it matched the color of her eyes. Others think she chose it because it’s similar to her mother’s. Regardless, we all agree the ring is stunning.
Unfortunately, it was a choice that stirred some controversy and backlash in the royal family because it was not bespoke. This means that the ring could easily be replicated and bought by members of the public. In fact, chances are there are a few exact replica pieces out in public. Controversy aside, the Kate Middleton engagement ring is arguably one of the most iconic and priceless pieces in the royal jewelry collection.
Kate Middleton Engagement Ring: The Heirloom
After the death of Princess Diana, King Charles III offered the two sons a chance to pick some pieces to keep from their mother’s jewelry collection. Prince Harry picked the famous sapphire engagement ring, and his brother, Prince William, picked his mother’s golden Cartier watch.
Before the Duke popped the question, Prince Harry offered his brother the ring, and that’s how it winded up on Kate’s finger. So, why did Prince Harry offer the ring to Prince William? Harry hasn’t said much about the sentimental act. He just notes that it would be befitting to have Kate wear his mother’s ring. He’s also glad that one day the ring will sit on the throne of England.
Kate Middleton Altered Her Engagement Ring
Sources say that Kate Middleton altered the ring after the proposal. But fret not. The alterations were needed so the ring could fit perfectly– the rock was just too big for her finger. The alterations were minor, though. Rather than resizing the whole band, the jeweler added tiny platinum bids on the inner sides of the ring to make it fit better. After all, the last thing a bride wants is to look down at her finger and realize her ring is missing.
Kate Middleton Engagement Ring Cost
At the time of purchase, King Charles III paid $60,000 for the ring, but it was valued at $37,000. However, the ring’s price has increased significantly since that time, partially due to its sentimental value. Benjamin Khordipour, a jewelry expert at Estate Diamonds Jewelry, estimates that Kate Middleton’s engagement ring is worth approximately $500,000. He also notes that this price will continue to rise because inflation is ongoing.
History of Kate Middleton and Prince William’s Courtship
Kate Middleton and Prince William’s relationship has stood the taste of time. The two love birds met in 2001 at St. Andrews University of Scotland. At first, they remained friends. But in 2003, their romance bloomed when they moved to an off-campus apartment.
In 2004, their romance was public, and they were even spotted skiing and being extra cozy on vacation in Switzerland. Like any other relationship, theirs was also full of ups and downs. And considering that they were under the media’s spotlight, they received their fair share of scrutiny and backlash.
In 2006, the duo split up in what Prince William describes as taking “space” from one another and a way for them to discover themselves and focus on personal growth. Kate Middleton said that, at the moment, she was not happy about the split. However, when she looks back now, she’s glad the separation happened because it allowed her to grow and discover things she had not yet learned about herself.
In 2007, the couple was back in each other’s arms, and the spark was still there. They were even seen at a party sharing a passionate kiss.
Kate Middleton and Prince William’s Proposal and Wedding
Prince William finally proposed to his girlfriend of nine years in October 2010 while on vacation in Kenya. However, they officially announced their engagement on November 16th of the same year.
In their engagement interview, Prince William mentioned that he took special care of the ring and had been walking with it in his rucksack for three weeks before popping the big question. He knew that if he misplaced it, he’d be in big trouble. He also noted that the ring was special because it was a way to keep his mother close to it all. On the other hand, Kate hoped that she would be able to take good care of the ring. And Prince William sheepishly said that she’d be in big trouble if she lost it.
They tied the knot in 2011 at Westminster Abbey and went to Seychelles for their honeymoon. In July of the same year, they moved to Kensington Palace, which is still their current home. The couple is blessed with three beautiful children: Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
Buy Similar Rings to Kate Middleton
Kate Middleton engagement ring remains an iconic jewelry piece in history. It was chosen from a non-royal collection by Princess Diana herself, which means members of the public could purchase it, and designers can still replicate it. So, here’s a list of rings similar to that of Kate Middleton.
1. Wharton Ring
The Wharton Ring is among the closest rings you’ll find to the Kate Middleton Engagement Ring. It features a 5.93-carat natural oval sapphire. The center stone is surrounded by a cluster of brilliant cut diamonds that weigh 2.06 carats. The ring eludes a lively floral design, and the two gemstones perfectly complement one another.
This ring has a low profile, so it will be comfortable on the wearer’s hand. It is also handcrafted in platinum and certified by the GIA.
2. Oval Sapphire Engagement Ring by Allurez
This is another sapphire engagement ring similar to that of Kate Middleton, and your significant other will be speechless if you propose with it. The center stone is a radiant oval-cut blue sapphire that weighs 3.15 carats. It is surrounded by accents of diamonds that weigh 0.51 carats, and the whole ring is set on an 18k white gold shank.
The shank is engraved “Alurez,” but this name can be customized or removed.
3. Celina Ring
Celina Ring is perfect for those who want a royal look but don’t have a fortune to spend. The center stone is an oval-cut blue sapphire that weighs 1.66 carats. It is surrounded by a diamond halo that collectively enhances the ring’s floral design. Each shoulder features two small old European cut diamonds, and the under-gallery is decorated with detailed openwork for added interest.
4. Honore Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring
The Honore Ring is reminiscent of Kate Middleton’s engagement ring because of its 0.77-carat oval-cut sapphire center stone. Small diamonds that weigh approximately 0.32 carats surround the sapphire and give the ring added sparkle. The ring is set in 14k white gold and can be resized to fit any finger size.
5. 1735 Sapphire Ring
Remember Garrard? The jeweler who made Princess Diana’s engagement ring? This is another one of their creations, and it’s a similar design to the now iconic ring. The 1735 sapphire ring vividly and elegantly interprets Kate Middleton’s engagement ring. It features a vibrant oval sapphire that’s surrounded by a diamond halo.
The ring beautifully sits on a pave diamond band, and it’s engraved “Garrard.” This classic design is an enduring symbol of love and will be greatly appreciated by your significant other.
6. 1735 Round Sapphire Ring
This 1735 Ring resembles Kate Middleton’s engagement ring, although the sapphire is round-shaped. Any bride will appreciate this iconic setting. It has an alluring, deep blue sapphire that’s surrounded by diamonds that shine their brilliant light enhancing the beauty of the center stone. The setting is presented on pave diamond band and is slightly elevated to allow the band to sit flush beside it.
7. 1735 Double Cluster Sapphire Engagement Ring
If you want a ring similar to that of Kate Middleton but with a touch of modernity, then this Garrard’s ring is an excellent choice. However, unlike the Kate Middleton engagement ring, the sapphire is surrounded by a radiant double halo of diamonds that reveals the ring’s floral pattern.
8. Jewelled Vault Ring
This royal-themed ring is for those who love luxury, glamor, and glitz. It has a round cut sapphire that’s surrounded by a layered row of diamonds and the shoulders are a heart-shaped Sovereign motif. The ring has a bespoke setting designed to elevate the radiant 4.79-carat sapphire upward and into the spotlight.
9. Princess Diana Inspired Blue Sapphire Ring With Diamond Halo
This is another Sapphire Ring that strikingly resembles that of Kate Middleton. In the center the of this radiant floral halo is a prong-set oval blue sapphire. It is handcrafted in 18k white gold and oozes royalty, class, elegance, and glamor.
10. Oval Sapphire Halo Ring With Diamond Accents
This is another excellent choice for those who want to carry a reminder of Princess Diana wherever they go. The oval sapphire is prong-set and enchants with its vibrant blue hue. Diamond accents surround the center stone and extend down the shank for a luminous, lively edge. Finally, this distinctive ring is handcrafted in 14k white gold and was made to impress.
Talk to an Expert Jewelry Shopper
Kate Middleton’s ring is a beautiful ring that any woman would appreciate. The Wedding Scoop is at your disposal should you want a similar ring. Our experienced jewelry experts will be more than pleased to help you find your dream engagement ring so you can finally pop the question with style and confidence. Simply fill out the form below, and one of our jewelry experts will get back to you shortly.
