The Enduring Legacy of Princess Diana’s Iconic Sapphire Ring

Few engagement rings have captivated the world quite like Princess Diana’s sapphire ring. Today, decades after its debut, this royal blue masterpiece continues to inspire couples in search of timeless elegance - and it’s no wonder sapphire engagement rings are trending once again.

The Story Behind the Royal Sapphire

In 1981, Prince Charles proposed to Lady Diana Spencer with a striking 12-carat Ceylon sapphire encircled by 14 solitaire diamonds. Set in 18-carat white gold, the ring was both bold and romantic - a perfect reflection of Diana’s individuality and grace.

Unlike many royal engagement rings, Diana’s was not custom-made; it was chosen from Garrard’s existing collection, making it something any bride could have purchased at the time. This decision transformed the ring into an emblem of accessibility, style, and independence - qualities that continue to define modern sapphire engagement rings today.

Why Choose a Sapphire Engagement Ring?

Sapphires have long symbolised loyalty, wisdom, and sincerity - the perfect sentiment for a lifelong commitment. While blue is the most iconic hue, sapphires come in a stunning range of colours, from delicate peach and vivid pink to deep green and classic cornflower blue.

In addition to their beauty, sapphires are among the most durable gemstones, second only to diamonds on the Mohs hardness scale. This makes them a practical yet luxurious choice for everyday wear - ideal for an engagement ring that’s designed to last a lifetime.

A Modern Revival of Royal Glamour

The allure of Diana’s ring lives on through The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, who now wears the same piece - a symbol of enduring love and legacy. This royal connection has reignited global fascination with sapphire engagement rings, blending heritage with contemporary taste.

Modern couples are now choosing sapphires not just for their beauty, but for their individuality. Whether paired with diamond halos, vintage-inspired settings, or sleek modern designs, sapphire rings offer endless possibilities for personal expression.

Find Your Own Iconic Sapphire Ring

At Holts Gems, we specialise in crafting bespoke sapphire engagement rings that capture the same timeless elegance as Princess Diana’s - designed uniquely for you. From deep royal blues to pastel hues, our expert gemmologists will help you find a sapphire that tells your story.

Ready to find your own iconic ring? Book a consultation or explore our collection of bespoke sapphire engagement rings today.