Meghan Markle’s Engagement Ring The Story Behind the Iconic Sparkler

When Prince Harry proposed to Meghan Markle in 2017, the world couldn’t wait to catch a glimpse of her engagement ring. As soon as Meghan Markle’s engagement ring was revealed, it became one of the most talked-about jewels in recent history. Designed with a special meaning and connection to the royal family, the ring not only reflects Harry’s love for Meghan but also holds sentimental value tied to his late mother, Princess Diana. In this article, we’ll explore the history, design, and evolution of Meghan Markle’s engagement ring, diving into the details that make this piece of jewelry truly iconic.

Profile Overview: Meghan Markle’s Engagement Ring

A Ring with Royal and Personal Significance

Prince Harry put a lot of thought into the design of Meghan Markle’s engagement ring, ensuring that it would carry deep personal meaning. At the heart of the ring is a cushion-cut diamond, estimated to be about three carats, which Prince Harry sourced from Botswana—a place that holds special significance for the couple. Botswana is where Harry and Meghan traveled early in their relationship to escape the public eye and spend time together in nature, away from the pressures of royal life. In interviews, Harry has spoken about his love for Africa, and it’s clear that this connection made the choice of a Botswana diamond particularly meaningful.

Flanking the central diamond are two smaller round-cut diamonds, which once belonged to Princess Diana, Harry’s late mother. The inclusion of these diamonds is an emotional tribute, symbolizing Diana’s presence in Harry’s life and their relationship. By incorporating these diamonds, Harry ensured that his mother would be a part of this special moment, even though she couldn’t be there in person.

The engagement ring is not only stunning but rich in personal and royal history, making it one of the most iconic and sentimental pieces of jewelry in recent memory. The way Harry designed it makes it clear that Meghan’s engagement ring isn’t just a beautiful piece—it’s a symbol of their love, their shared values, and their personal journey together.

The Original Design: A Reflection of Tradition and Modernity

Meghan Markle’s engagement ring, when first revealed to the public, featured a classic design with a modern twist. The large cushion-cut center diamond is flanked by the two round side stones, set on a simple, elegant yellow gold band. According to Prince Harry, the yellow gold was chosen because it is Meghan’s favorite metal, adding yet another personal touch to the design.

The diamonds from Princess Diana’s collection provide a subtle connection to the royal family, while the yellow gold band adds warmth and an approachable touch to an otherwise traditional style. This fusion of classic elegance and personal customization perfectly embodies the union between Meghan and Harry—blending royal tradition with the modern, independent spirit that both of them represent.

The craftsmanship of the ring was handled by Cleave and Company, the official court jewelers to the royal family. Known for their exquisite and meticulous designs, the company’s attention to detail ensured that the ring would not only be beautiful but also steeped in quality and tradition. The combination of the Botswana diamond and Princess Diana’s jewels make this ring a true one-of-a-kind piece, cherished by both the royal family and admirers worldwide.

The Evolution: Meghan’s Ring Gets an Update

Though Meghan Markle’s engagement ring captured the attention of the world when it was first revealed, it underwent a significant change just two years after her wedding to Prince Harry. In 2019, fans noticed that Meghan had updated her engagement ring, switching from the original yellow gold band to a more modern and elegant diamond-studded platinum band.

This subtle yet notable transformation was first noticed during Meghan’s public appearances in 2019 when she debuted the updated ring along with a new eternity band, which Harry reportedly gifted her in celebration of their first wedding anniversary. Meghan’s updated engagement ring now features a thinner, pavé-set platinum band adorned with small diamonds, giving the ring an even more glamorous and contemporary feel.

The decision to alter the ring’s design came as a surprise to some royal watchers, but it also fits Meghan’s evolving style. Known for her modern and minimalist fashion choices, Meghan may have wanted her ring to reflect her personal taste more closely as she embraced her new role as both a royal and a mother. Despite the update, the sentimental significance of the ring remains intact, with the central Botswana diamond and Princess Diana’s jewels untouched.

Comparisons to Other Royal Engagement Rings

One reason why Meghan Markle’s engagement ring is often discussed is because of the long-standing tradition of royal engagement rings making headlines. Comparisons are frequently drawn between Meghan’s ring and the engagement rings of other royal women, most notably Kate Middleton’s and Princess Diana’s.

Kate Middleton’s engagement ring, a sapphire and diamond piece once worn by Princess Diana, is another iconic jewel. With its stunning 12-carat oval sapphire surrounded by 14 diamonds, it contrasts sharply with Meghan’s more modern and understated design. While both rings are tied to Princess Diana, their styles reflect the unique personalities of their wearers. Kate’s ring nods to royal tradition, whereas Meghan’s ring, with its mix of modern and sentimental elements, is more personal in nature.

Another comparison is made to Princess Diana’s other jewelry pieces, many of which were passed down to Prince William and Prince Harry. Meghan’s ring, which features diamonds from Diana’s personal collection, is considered by many to be a touching tribute to the “People’s Princess.”

The Cultural Impact of Meghan’s Engagement Ring

Meghan Markle’s engagement ring quickly became a trendsetter. Almost immediately after its public reveal, jewelers around the world started offering replicas and inspired designs, catering to fans eager to own a ring similar to Meghan’s. The mix of sentimental value and modern design elements has made her engagement ring highly desirable among those seeking a timeless yet meaningful piece of jewelry.

In addition to influencing fashion and jewelry trends, the ring also sparked discussions about the importance of ethical sourcing in the jewelry industry. Given the central diamond’s origins in Botswana, many consumers were inspired to seek out conflict-free diamonds and jewelry that prioritize ethical and sustainable sourcing. This subtle yet significant choice by Harry and Meghan helped raise awareness about the importance of responsible jewelry practices.

The ring also became a talking point in discussions about the intersection of royal life and modern values. Meghan Markle, as a former actress and humanitarian, brought a fresh perspective to the British royal family. Her engagement ring reflects her unique place within the royal family—a balance between honoring tradition and embracing change.

Meghan Markle’s Engagement Ring: A Symbol of Love and Legacy

Meghan Markle’s engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewelry. It’s a representation of her and Prince Harry’s journey as a couple—an expression of their love, shared experiences, and commitment to one another. The thoughtfulness that went into the design, from the use of diamonds belonging to Princess Diana to the Botswana connection, shows that the ring was carefully crafted with deep personal meaning.

Moreover, Meghan’s engagement ring continues to hold cultural significance as a symbol of a new chapter for the British royal family. It’s a testament to Harry and Meghan’s ability to blend their private lives with the public role they serve, all while staying true to their values.

In the years since its debut, Meghan Markle’s engagement ring has evolved both physically and symbolically, much like her own journey from actress to royal to independent figure on the global stage. As one of the most famous engagement rings in modern history, it will continue to captivate jewelry enthusiasts and royal watchers for years to come.

Conclusion

Meghan Markle’s engagement ring is not just a dazzling piece of jewelry; it is a symbol of love, legacy, and change. Designed by Prince Harry with heartfelt details, the ring beautifully incorporates personal elements, including a diamond from Botswana and diamonds from Princess Diana’s collection. Its evolution, from the original yellow gold band to a modern diamond-studded platinum setting, mirrors Meghan’s own journey within the royal family and beyond.

This iconic engagement ring is a perfect example of how jewelry can carry deep meaning, serving as a reflection of personal values and cherished memories. As Meghan Markle and Prince Harry continue to build their life together, her engagement ring remains a timeless piece that signifies not only their relationship but also a part of royal history.