An engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewellery. It’s a symbol of love, commitment, and a promise of a future together. It signifies a chapter in a couple’s love story that is about to unfold. This is perhaps why these rings often become treasures, worth far more than the precious metal and gemstones they are made of. And when it comes to engagement rings that have captured not just hearts but also headlines, nothing comes close to the iconic pieces that have graced the fingers of celebrities, royals, and historical figures.
A Price Tag Is Not Just a Number
Among all the shining and glittering stones, the value of these engagement rings is not only determined by their weight in carats or the reputation of the jewellers, but by the romantic and historical contexts in which they were given. It’s like comparing a home-cooked meal to a Michelin-starred dinner; both may satisfy your hunger, but the experience, the setting, and who you’re with can make all the difference.
Interesting Trivia: Did you know that the most expensive engagement ring ever sold fetched a staggering $10 million? Mariah Carey’s engagement ring from James Packer tops the list, not just for its price but also for its whopping 35-carat size.
Celebrating Love, Celebrity Style
Elizabeth Taylor’s Enchanting Gem
Purchased by Richard Burton in 1968, Elizabeth Taylor’s Krupp Diamond features a stunning 33.19-carat Asscher-cut diamond. The diamond sits on a platinum ring and is so precious that it has its own name. Estimated at $8.8 million, this gem is not just an engagement ring but a piece of Hollywood history. The diamond was part of the estate of Vera Krupp, a German actress and manufacturing heiress, hence the name.
Grace Kelly’s Timeless Elegance
Crafted by Cartier, Grace Kelly’s engagement ring is an epitome of both style and royalty. The 10.47-carat emerald-cut diamond, set in platinum, represents not just their love but a transition from Hollywood glam to royal grace. Valued at over $4 million, the ring symbolises an enduring fairy tale, capturing the hearts and imaginations of people globally.
Jackie Kennedy’s Unique Combination
Van Cleef & Arpels were the craftsmen behind Jackie Kennedy’s breathtaking engagement ring. This unique ring featured a 2.88-carat diamond alongside a beautiful emerald, set in yellow gold and open-halo diamonds. Valued at $1.4 million, this one-of-a-kind design stands as a testament to JFK and Jackie’s extraordinary life and romance.
An Influencer’s Dream: Kim Kardashian
Kim Kardashian’s 15-carat cushion-cut diamond ring is nothing less than dazzling. Crafted by Lorraine Schwartz and set in a thin pavé band, the ring has an estimated value of $2-4 million. The ring has been as newsworthy as the celebrity it adorns, reflecting Kim’s impact on pop culture.
Meghan Markle’s Royal Romance
Meghan Markle’s three-stone engagement ring features a 6-carat cushion-cut diamond, flanked by two smaller diamonds from Princess Diana’s personal collection. The ring’s band is made of yellow gold. Although Cleave and Company crafted it, Prince Harry had a significant role in its design. The ring’s sentimental value is beyond its monetary value of $350,000.
Beyoncé’s Diva Accessory
Jay-Z made a statement when he proposed to Beyoncé with an 18-carat emerald-cut diamond. Designed by Lorraine Schwartz, the platinum-set ring is reported to have a value of $5 million. This stunning piece of jewellery encapsulates both Beyoncé’s star power and Jay-Z’s love for her.
Jennifer Lopez’s Pink Surprise
Jennifer Lopez’s unique pink diamond ring was a rare gem, indeed. Crafted by Harry Winston, the 6.1-carat pink diamond is set in platinum and flanked by two white diamond baguettes. It was valued at $2.5 million in 2002, and it stands as one of the most iconic coloured diamond engagement rings ever.
Record Setter: Mariah Carey
Wilfredo Rosado is the name behind Mariah Carey’s extraordinary engagement ring. Featuring a 35-carat emerald-cut diamond, the ring holds the title for the largest and most expensive ring on this list, valued at $10 million. The stone is set in platinum, adding to its exquisite charm.
The Duchess and Her Blue Sapphire
The engagement ring worn by Kate Middleton was initially purchased by Prince Charles for Princess Diana. Crafted by Garrard, the ring features a 12-carat oval blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, set in 18-karat white gold. Although its original value was £28,500, its worth has increased manifold due to its royal lineage.
A Hollywood Princess: Paris Hilton
Paris Hilton’s engagement ring features a mammoth 20-carat pear-shaped diamond, designed by Greene & Co. Set in platinum, the ring has an estimated value of $4.7 million. This engagement ring captures the extravagance and glamour that define Paris Hilton.
Real Fact: Valuating an engagement ring involves assessing the “Four Cs”: Carat weight, Cut, Colour, and Clarity. Professional appraisers use these criteria alongside current market rates for similar stones. If the ring has provenance, like belonging to a famous person, its value could increase significantly due to its historical and cultural relevance.
Hatton Garden: Crafting Bespoke Rings with Iconic Elegance
Drawing inspiration from iconic pieces worn by celebrities and royals, Hatton Garden in London emerges as the premier destination for those in search of bespoke engagement rings that meet the highest standards of luxury. These master jewellers possess the skills to craft rings comparable to those that have captivated audiences worldwide. Whether you’re entranced by Elizabeth Taylor’s Krupp Diamond or Meghan Markle’s three-stone masterpiece, the artisans of Hatton Garden can create a custom piece imbued with exceptional craftsmanship and sentimental value. With their unparalleled expertise, these jewellers offer more than just rings; they offer everlasting symbols of love and commitment.
Conclusion
The inspiration for engagement rings can come from many places, but when it comes to choosing one that will stand the test of time, understanding its history, craftsmanship, and symbolic meaning can offer much more than just a sparkling accessory. From the Hollywood glamour of Elizabeth Taylor to the regal elegance of Kate Middleton, these legendary gems remind us that an engagement ring can transcend time and fashion, becoming an everlasting symbol of love and commitment.
FAQs:
- Who has the most expensive engagement ring? Mariah Carey, with a ring valued at $10 million.
- Which celebrity ring is the largest by carat? Again, it’s Mariah Carey with a 35-carat ring.
- Who designed Meghan Markle’s ring? Crafted by Cleave and Company, but designed by Prince Harry.
- How many carats is Beyoncé’s ring? Beyoncé’s ring features an 18-carat diamond.
- Which ring belonged to a Hollywood actress turned royal? Grace Kelly’s, made by Cartier.
