Ranked by sentimental value
Royal weddings have always inspired trends—from Kate Middleton's Alexander McQueen gown to Meghan Markle's three-stone engagement ring. And with the recent announcement of Princess Beatrice's engagement to beau Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi—who proposed with a custom-made four-carat diamond and platinum ring by British jeweller Shaun Leane—the royal is set to give rise to new bridal trends.
But as we await the upcoming wedding set to take place next year, we look back at the other iconic royal romances of their time, and the beautiful stories that accompany them. These are the most memorable royal engagement rings—ranked by their sentimental value, from the most sentimental.
1. Meghan Markle, Duchess of Sussex
Like William, Prince Harry wanted to honour their mother, Diana on their big day. When he designed Meghan’s engagement ring, Harry included two round diamonds from a brooch that belonged to Diana, flanking a three-carat cushion cut diamond from Botswana—the South African country where the couple first vacationed together and fell in love.
The gems are set on a yellow gold band, which is reportedly Meghan’s favourite. The duchess redesigned it this year, however, switching it for a delicate micro-pavé band—perhaps to celebrate the birth of their son Archie.