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When Prince Harry proposed to Meghan Markle in 2017, the world wasn’t just captivated by the royal love story — it was equally mesmerized by the engagement ring that symbolized it. Elegant yet deeply personal, Meghan Markle’s engagement ring quickly became one of the most iconic celebrity rings of modern times.
Unlike many royal jewels rooted purely in tradition, Meghan’s ring tells a layered story of love, memory, and individuality. From diamonds sourced in meaningful locations to design choices made with intention, every element reflects a union built on emotion rather than convention.
Let’s take a closer look at the story, symbolism, and design details behind this unforgettable royal ring.
The Story Behind Meghan Markle’s Engagement Ring
How Prince Harry Designed a Ring Full of Meaning
Prince Harry played an active role in designing Meghan Markle’s engagement ring, working closely with British jeweler Cleave & Company. Rather than selecting a historic heirloom or a ready-made piece, Harry wanted something deeply personal — a ring that told their story.
He later shared that it was important for the ring to feel uniquely Meghan. Every detail, from the diamonds to the band, was chosen with care and intention, blending royal heritage with modern romance.
Symbolism and Sentiment
What the Three Stones Represent
Meghan’s engagement ring features a trilogy (three-stone) design, a style rich in symbolism. Traditionally, three-stone rings represent a couple’s past, present, and future — a fitting metaphor for a relationship built on shared experiences and hope.
This design choice adds emotional depth to the ring, transforming it from a piece of jewelry into a personal narrative captured in diamonds.
The Centerpiece Diamond
Botswana and the Cushion-Cut Diamond
At the heart of the ring lies a stunning cushion-cut diamond sourced from Botswana. This detail is especially meaningful, as Botswana holds a special place in Harry and Meghan’s relationship. Early in their romance, the couple spent time there away from the public eye, forming memories that strengthened their bond.
The cushion cut — known for its soft edges and timeless elegance — perfectly complements Meghan’s understated yet refined style. It balances vintage charm with contemporary appeal, making it a classic choice that feels neither trendy nor dated.
Side Stones With Legacy
Diamonds From Princess Diana’s Personal Collection
Flanking the center stone are two round diamonds from Princess Diana’s personal jewelry collection. These stones add a powerful emotional layer to the ring, symbolizing continuity, remembrance, and family connection.
Prince Harry has spoken openly about wanting his mother to be part of this milestone in his life. Incorporating Diana’s diamonds ensures her presence is felt — not as a relic of the past, but as a meaningful part of the couple’s future.
Evolution of the Ring’s Design
From Classic Yellow Gold to Pavé Band
When Meghan first debuted her engagement ring, it featured a plain yellow gold band, chosen specifically because yellow gold is her favorite metal. The simplicity of the original band allowed the diamonds to take center stage.
In 2019, Meghan updated the ring with a slender micro-pavé diamond band, adding extra sparkle while maintaining elegance. The update reflected her evolving personal style — refined, modern, and quietly luxurious — without losing the ring’s original meaning.
Carat Weight and Estimated Value
How Big — and Priceless — Is the Ring?
While exact specifications have never been officially confirmed, experts estimate the center diamond to be around 3 carats, with the total value of the ring reaching well into the six-figure range.
However, the true worth of Meghan Markle’s engagement ring goes far beyond monetary value. The provenance of Princess Diana’s diamonds, combined with the sentimental origin of the center stone, makes the ring virtually priceless in emotional and historical terms.
Style and Setting Details
Why the Trilogy Style Matters
Beyond symbolism, the trilogy setting offers a timeless aesthetic that appeals to modern couples. It provides balance, visual harmony, and versatility — equally stunning in classic or contemporary interpretations.
Meghan’s ring helped reignite interest in three-stone engagement rings, inspiring countless designs that focus on storytelling rather than sheer size or extravagance.
Meghan’s Jewelry and Ring Legacy
How This Ring Fits Into Royal Tradition
Unlike many royal engagement rings that are inherited or heavily traditional, Meghan’s ring represents a new chapter in royal jewelry. It blends royal heritage with personal storytelling, reflecting Meghan’s role in modernizing royal norms.
This balance of tradition and individuality aligns perfectly with Meghan’s broader influence on royal fashion — elegant, thoughtful, and unafraid to break from convention.
Public and Cultural Impact
A Modern Royal Icon
Meghan Markle’s engagement ring quickly became one of the most searched and discussed celebrity rings worldwide. Jewelers reported increased demand for trilogy settings, cushion-cut diamonds, and meaningful gemstone sourcing following its debut.
More than a trend, the ring sparked a shift in how people think about engagement jewelry — prioritizing symbolism, ethics, and personal connection over extravagance alone.
Caring for a Sentimental Heirloom
Tips for Preserving Diamond Settings and Metals
Rings like Meghan’s inspire questions about long-term care. For those wearing sentimental or heirloom jewelry:
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Regular professional cleaning helps maintain brilliance
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Annual inspections ensure stones remain secure
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Gentle daily wear habits reduce metal wear over time
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Proper storage prevents scratches and damage
Thoughtful care ensures that meaningful rings can be passed down, carrying their stories into future generations.
Final Thoughts
Meghan Markle’s engagement ring is far more than a royal accessory. It’s a carefully crafted symbol of love, memory, and individuality — a piece that honors the past while embracing the future.
From diamonds with personal history to a design rooted in symbolism, the ring represents a modern approach to engagement jewelry — one where meaning matters just as much as beauty.
