Few pieces of jewelry have captured global imagination like the "Diana Style" sapphire engagement ring - a royal treasure now worn by Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales. This legendary ring, featuring a magnificent 12-carat oval blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, has become one of the most copied engagement ring designs in history.
A Royal Jewel with Democratic Origins
In 1981, Lady Diana Spencer made history by breaking royal protocol. Rather than commissioning a custom piece, the young bride-to-be selected her engagement ring from a Garrard catalog - making it technically available to the public. The ring featured:
-
A 12-carat oval Ceylon blue sapphire (measuring approximately 12x10mm)
-
14 solitaire diamonds (0.25 carats each) in a halo setting
-
18K white gold band (later rhodium-plated for durability)
Valued at £47,000 (about $60,000 at the time), the ring was criticized by some as "too extravagant" but quickly became Diana's signature piece. Its cornflower blue hue - exceptionally rare in sapphires - set a new standard for colored gemstone engagement rings.
After Diana's tragic passing in 1997, the ring was inherited by Prince William, who presented it to Kate Middleton when proposing in 2010. This emotional gesture cemented the ring's status as the most famous engagement ring in modern history.
The "Diana Style" Global Phenomenon
The "Diana Style" sapphire ring has become a bridal icon by masterfully blending royal heritage with contemporary elegance. Its striking blue centerpiece revolutionized engagement traditions, proving colored gemstones could rival diamonds in both beauty and symbolism. The design's timeless appeal lies in its perfect balance - regal enough for royalty yet adaptable for modern tastes, with over a million replicas testament to its enduring charm.
Sapphires elevate this legendary design through their exceptional durability (9 on Mohs scale) and spectrum of celestial hues. These noble gems embody wisdom and permanence while offering remarkable value, making the "Diana Style" equally coveted by traditionalists and fashion-forward brides alike. Its continued reign in bridal trends speaks to an eternal truth: true elegance never goes out of style.
