When Meghan Markle and Prince Harry announced their engagement in November 2017, it wasn’t just their love story that made headlines—their announcement came with a ring that immediately captured the world’s attention. Meghan Markle’s engagement ring symbolizes not only their commitment to one another but also a touching connection to Prince Harry’s beloved mother, Princess Diana. The dazzling ring quickly became an iconic piece of royal jewelry, admired for its beauty and sentimental value.
In this article, we’ll dive into the design of the ring, the meaningful story behind it, and how it has evolved over time. We’ll also look at how Meghan Markle’s engagement ring has influenced jewelry trends and sparked countless imitations in the fashion world.
Meghan Markle: Profile Overview
| Full Name | Rachel Meghan Markle |
|---|---|
| Born | August 4, 1981 |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Actress, Duchess of Sussex |
| Engagement | Announced November 27, 2017 |
| Spouse | Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex (married 2018) |
| Ring Design | Three-stone diamond ring |
| Designer | Cleave & Company, with input from Prince Harry |
A Royal Proposal: The Moment Meghan Markle Said “Yes”
The engagement of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle marked a significant moment in the history of the British royal family. The couple had been dating for over a year, and the world was eagerly watching their blossoming relationship. On a cozy night at their home in Nottingham Cottage, Prince Harry proposed to Meghan during what he described as a “typical night in” while they were roasting chicken.
Though the setting was casual and intimate, the ring was anything but ordinary. Meghan Markle’s engagement ring instantly became a topic of fascination when the couple shared their engagement news with the world. Harry’s thoughtful input in designing the ring and its connection to his late mother, Princess Diana, made it a deeply personal and meaningful symbol of their relationship.
The Design of Meghan Markle’s Engagement Ring
Meghan Markle’s engagement ring is a stunning three-stone diamond ring, also known as a trilogy ring, which is believed to represent the past, present, and future of the couple’s relationship. Designed by British jeweler Cleave & Company, the official jeweler to Queen Elizabeth II, the ring was custom-made with input from Prince Harry, making it one of the most personal pieces of jewelry in the royal collection.
The ring’s central diamond, sourced from Botswana, is particularly significant to Harry and Meghan’s love story. The couple had traveled to Botswana early in their relationship and spent time together in the African country, which Prince Harry has frequently referred to as a place of deep personal meaning. The large, brilliant-cut center diamond is flanked by two smaller round diamonds, which hold special significance—they were taken from Princess Diana’s personal jewelry collection.
By incorporating diamonds from his mother’s collection, Prince Harry ensured that Diana’s memory would be a part of their new journey as a couple. This heartfelt gesture was also a tribute to the bond that both Harry and Meghan feel with Diana, who remains a beloved figure in royal history.
The Symbolism Behind the Design
The three stones in Meghan Markle’s engagement ring are more than just an aesthetic choice. As previously mentioned, the trilogy design represents the past, present, and future of the relationship. The diamonds themselves also carry symbolic meaning:
- The central diamond from Botswana represents the couple’s shared experiences and love for the African continent. Botswana is also where Harry and Meghan first spent meaningful time together early in their relationship.
- The side diamonds from Princess Diana’s collection signify the presence and memory of Prince Harry’s late mother in their lives. These diamonds also ensure that Diana’s legacy continues through Harry’s marriage and future family.
The Evolution of Meghan Markle’s Engagement Ring
In 2019, Meghan was spotted wearing a slightly altered version of her original engagement ring. While the original ring featured a solid yellow gold band—chosen because it was Meghan’s preferred metal—the updated version has a thinner, diamond-encrusted band. The new setting adds extra sparkle to the already stunning ring and gives it a more modern and delicate appearance.
This subtle yet noticeable change sparked conversations about how personal jewelry can evolve over time, reflecting the wearer’s style or preferences. Meghan’s decision to redesign the band shows her confidence in making the ring her own, while still respecting its sentimental origins.
Prince Harry, ever the thoughtful partner, is said to have played a role in the ring’s redesign as well. The updated version was first seen during Meghan and Harry’s appearance at the Trooping the Colour parade in 2019, a few months after the birth of their son, Archie. Along with her updated engagement ring, Meghan was also spotted wearing an eternity band, which many believe was a gift from Harry to mark their first wedding anniversary.
The Influence of Meghan Markle’s Engagement Ring on Jewelry Trends
Meghan Markle’s engagement ring has undoubtedly influenced modern engagement ring trends, with many couples opting for similar trilogy designs. The symbolism of a three-stone ring has always been a meaningful choice, but Meghan’s elegant and personalized version brought the style back into the spotlight.
In particular, the combination of ethical sourcing and personal significance has resonated with many people who are now seeking engagement rings that tell a story beyond their aesthetic appeal. The use of ethically sourced diamonds, especially from a place like Botswana, where sustainable mining practices are emphasized, has also sparked interest in conscious consumption when it comes to fine jewelry.
The decision to incorporate family heirlooms, like the diamonds from Princess Diana’s collection, has further popularized the idea of including sentimental or inherited stones in engagement rings. In recent years, many couples have opted to redesign existing family pieces or add meaningful gemstones to their engagement rings as a way of blending tradition with modernity.
Meghan Markle’s Engagement Ring in 2023
As of 2023, Meghan Markle’s engagement ring continues to captivate royal watchers and jewelry enthusiasts alike. Although she has since added other stunning pieces to her collection—such as the eternity band gifted by Prince Harry and various bracelets and necklaces that she wears for special occasions—her engagement ring remains one of her most talked-about and beloved accessories.
Beyond its visual appeal, the ring holds tremendous personal meaning for both Meghan and Harry, symbolizing not only their commitment to each other but also their shared values and deep connection to Princess Diana. For Meghan, the ring represents the blending of her life with Harry’s, as well as their future together as partners, parents, and philanthropists.
As Meghan continues to make public appearances and advocate for the causes close to her heart, her engagement ring serves as a subtle but powerful reminder of the deep love and thoughtfulness that underpin her relationship with Harry.
Conclusion: A Ring Full of Meaning and Legacy
Meghan Markle’s engagement ring is far more than just a dazzling piece of jewelry—it’s a symbol of love, family, and legacy. From the ethically sourced diamond from Botswana to the stones once worn by Princess Diana, every element of the ring holds deep personal significance for both Meghan and Harry.
The careful thought that went into the ring’s design, combined with its evolution over time, has made it one of the most iconic royal engagement rings in history. Meghan’s ability to blend tradition with her personal style and values is reflected perfectly in her engagement ring, which continues to inspire couples around the world.
As Meghan and Harry build their life together, her engagement ring will remain a timeless representation of their love story and their commitment to honoring the past while looking forward to the future.
