Ruby engagement rings have captured the attention of many celebrities and members of the royal family, standing out for their intense colour and rich symbolism. Known as the stone of passion and protection, rubies add a touch of regal elegance to any engagement ring. Let’s delve into some of the most famous ruby engagement rings that have graced the fingers of celebrities and royals, and explore how their designs can inspire your own choices.
Celebrity Rings: Notable Ruby Engagement Rings Worn by Celebrities
Jessica Simpson
Jessica Simpson’s ruby engagement ring is a striking piece that garnered much attention when she announced her engagement to Eric Johnson. The ruby trilogy ring features a central ruby flanked by two diamonds, creating a beautiful contrast that highlights the ruby’s vibrant hue. The feature ruby is thought to be just over 5 carats, set into a Tiffany & Co. designed setting.
Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham, known for her impeccable fashion sense, has an enviable collection of 15 engagement rings, one of which features a stunning ruby. This iconic ring features a large oval-cut ruby surrounded by a halo of diamonds, set on a delicate platinum band. It’s a perfect blend of classic and contemporary design, much like Victoria’s own style.
Katy Perry
Singer Katy Perry is known for her unique style, so it was only fitting that her engagement ring followed suit. The American songstress and British actor, Orlando Bloom, announced their engagement via Instagram, sharing her ruby and diamond cluster ring, featuring a central ruby surrounded by eight white diamonds. The floral engagement ring is believed to be vintage, making Katy perry a woman after our own heart! This stunning piece perfectly captures Katy’s bold personality and timeless elegance, making it an iconic choice in the world of celebrity engagement rings.
Royal Rings: Historical and Contemporary Royal Ruby Rings
Princess Margaret
Princess Margaret’s engagement ring from Antony Armstrong-Jones features a beautiful ruby surrounded by diamonds, designed to look like a rosebud. This choice was deeply personal and romantic, designed with Princess Maragaret’s middle name ‘Rose’ in mid. The ring is a perfect blend of personal significance and royal elegance.
Crown Princess Mette-Marit
Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway’s engagement ring is a beautiful testament to royal elegance and timeless love. Presented to her by Crown Prince Haakon, the diamond and ruby ring holds deep significance, intertwining royal tradition with modern romance. The ring has a storied history, originally used in 1928 when Crown Prince Olav proposed to Princess Martha of Sweden. It was then passed down to Crown Prince Harald, who controversially proposed to Sonja Haraldsen, a commoner. Their engagement, despite initial opposition, blossomed into a long-lasting marriage. This ring, a symbol of enduring love and successful unions, carries special meaning as Crown Prince Haakon continued the tradition by proposing to Mette-Marit, who also comes from outside royal descent. This piece not only reflects the heritage of Norway’s royal family but also the power of love to transcend societal boundaries.
Queen Mary of Denmark
Given to her by Crown Prince Frederik, the ring features an exquisite 1.50 carat emerald-cut diamond flanked by two rubies. Denmark’s national colours are red and white, so it’s no surprise that several Danish royal brides have worn engagement rings set with rubies. The beautiful ring symbolises that she is not just married to the King of Denmark, but his country too.
Following Queen Margrethe’s abdication in 2024, the couple became King Frederik X and Queen Mary. Queen Mary is often seen to pair her ruby engagement ring alongside a diamond eternity ring, and has added a further two diamonds to her engagement ring, so the four supporting stones may represent the couples four children.
Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York
One of the most famous royal ruby engagement rings belongs to Sarah Ferguson, Duchess of York. When Prince Andrew proposed in 1986, he presented her with a stunning cluster engagement ring featuring a Burmese ruby encircled by ten diamonds, set in 18-carat yellow gold. Andrew stated in his engagement interview “we wanted something that was slightly unconventional” when explaining their choice in ring, which was made by the iconic British jewellery house, Garrard, the same place that made Princess Diana’s iconic sapphire engagement ring.
Princess Marie of Denmark
When Prince Joachim of Denmark proposed to his French girlfriend, Marie Cavallier, he chose a ring that would be beautifully sentimental to the couple. The gold band features a ruby, diamond and sapphire, set to represent the French flag. Prince Joachim knew Marie would have to renounce her French citizenship and become a Dane so the ring is a thoughtful nod to her French heritage.
Design Inspiration: How to Draw Inspiration from Famous Rings
When looking to draw inspiration from celebrity and royal ruby engagement rings, consider the following aspects:
Gemstone and Setting
The gemstone is the star of any engagement ring. Rubies, with their fiery red hue, are a perfect choice for those seeking something unique and vibrant. Consider a setting that complements the ruby, such as a diamond halo or a vintage-inspired design, to enhance its natural beauty.
Personal Significance
Many iconic rings have elements of personal significance, such as the rosebud design of Princess Margaret’s ring or the nod to the French flag like Marie Cavallier’s. Considering elements that reflect your relationship, such as birthstone or number of gemstones. A trilogy engagement ring is often significant of a couples past, present and future together.
Blend of Styles
Take cues from Victoria Beckham’s eclectic collection or Queen Mary’s ring stack. Don’t be afraid to try an engagement ring on alongside the rest of your collection to create a style that’s uniquely yours. Combining modern and vintage elements can result in a timeless look that stands out.
Celebrity and royal engagement rings offer a wealth of inspiration with their exquisite designs and rich histories. However, the most important aspect of any engagement ring is that it aligns to your personal preference! Whether you choose a ruby engagement ring for its passionate symbolism or draw ideas from famous rings, your engagement ring should be a reflection of your unique love story. After all, the best engagement ring is one that resonates with your heart and tells your own story of love and commitment.
