The romance between Princess Diana and Dodi Fayed captivated the world during the summer of 1997. Their whirlwind relationship, filled with luxurious trips and public fascination, became the centre of media attention. Diana, already one of the most photographed women in the world, and Dodi, the son of Egyptian billionaire Mohamed Al-Fayed, seemed to live a modern fairy tale — albeit one with a tragic end.
Their relationship blossomed in the months following Diana’s divorce from Prince Charles, with paparazzi chronicling their every move. From yachting in the Mediterranean to romantic dinners in Paris, the couple’s love story became a global spectacle. While their romance was brief, the mystery surrounding their final days has continued to intrigue the public, especially when it comes to the question of their engagement.
The Crown‘s Depiction of the Engagement
The final season of The Crown revisits Diana and Dodi’s relationship, offering a fictionalised portrayal of their time together. In the episode “Dis-moi Oui” (French for “Say Yes”), Dodi is seen purchasing a diamond engagement ring for Diana at the iconic Parisian jeweller Repossi. The Netflix series dramatises the event, presenting Dodi as ready to propose to Diana shortly before their tragic car accident on August 31, 1997.
However, as with much of The Crown, creative liberties were taken. The show’s depiction of their relationship as one heading toward marriage has sparked debate about its historical accuracy. While the series paints a romanticised picture, the real-life details remain shrouded in speculation.
The Ring
The ring was said to feature a bold yellow gold band, set with a striking central diamond framed by elegant baguette-cut stones. Anything but understated, it reflected Dodi’s extravagant taste and the whirlwind nature of his high-profile romance with Diana.
Designed in the classic Repossi style, the piece radiated opulence while still aligning with Diana’s fashion-forward sensibility. She had long embraced daring jewellery choices that set her apart from traditional royal conventions, and this ring suited that evolution perfectly. Yet despite its brilliance, the piece never became a defining milestone in her life and instead lingers as something of a mystery.
Reports suggest the ring cost around £11,600 at the time, roughly £22,000 in today’s value. While modest compared to many celebrity jewels, it still spoke of commitment. Was it intended as an engagement ring, a promise ring, or something else entirely? That ambiguity continues to fascinate, leaving the ring (like Diana and Dodi’s story itself) is a glamorous yet unresolved chapter in a life forever in the public eye.
The Real Story Behind the Engagement Ring
Dodi Fayed did indeed buy a diamond ring from Repossi. Reports indicate that the ring was part of the jeweller’s “Dis-moi Oui” collection, a name that naturally raises questions about engagement. However, the true reasons behind the purchase are still uncertain.
Some sources suggest that Dodi was planning to propose, while others argue that the ring was merely a sign of commitment, not an official engagement. The Guardian mentioned that Mohamed Al-Fayed was convinced his son intended to propose to Diana, pointing to the ring purchase as proof. Still, there’s no solid evidence that Dodi ever proposed to Diana or that she accepted.
Was Diana Wearing the Ring When She Died?
Contrary to what many people think, Princess Diana was not wearing the “engagement ring” when she passed away. Reports suggest that the ring remained in its box because Diana had not yet determined what it represented in their relationship. Although the couple shared a passionate romance, it was short-lived, and it remains uncertain whether Diana envisioned herself marrying Dodi.
What Happened to the Ring?
The fate of the ring has been the subject of speculation. After the tragic car crash in Paris, the ring was reportedly returned to Mohamed Al-Fayed. It remains in the possession of the Fayed family, symbolising a relationship that ended too soon.
A Love Story Frozen in Time
Diana and Dodi’s relationship, though brief, has become the stuff of legend. The mystery surrounding the engagement ring, and their final days adds another layer of intrigue to their story. While The Crown offers a dramatised version of events, the truth lies somewhere in the shadows of history. The ring, whether a token of love or a precursor to an engagement, remains a poignant reminder of a romance cut tragically short.
