The History of the Sapphire Engagement Ring

One of the types of jewel to reap the most benefit from the current configuration of the jewellery market has been the sapphire engagement ring. Once popular as a symbol of eternal love, this type of gemstone, along with rubies and emeralds, has recently found a second wind and soared back to a respectable position within the market, once again appealing to many brides and grooms who do not necessarily identify with diamonds.

As noted, however, the sapphire has a long and eventful history of sitting on the fingers and adorning the necks of some of the most prominent personalities in world history. Kings, queens, princesses and media personalities have all worn this type of ring at one point or another, and a quick stroll down memory lane will allow interested couples to understand the motives for this jewel’s continuing popularity throughout the centuries.

A Royal Jewel

Quite apart from the many puns which could be made about its colour and the hue normally called ‘royal blue’, one of the sapphire’s claims to fame is having adorned the fingers and necks of royal figures throughout the centuries. Nowadays, the stone is likely to be best known because of Catherine, the Duchess of Cambridge’s famous sapphire engagement ring, which used to belong to her late mother-in-law, Diana, Princess of Wales, but even before these royals chose them, the stone was a staple among royal families all over the world.

Various royal figures who have worn sapphires over the centuries begins with Mary of Burgundy (believed to have been the recipient of the very first sapphire engagement ring) and extends to Queen Elizabeth II of Great Britain and grandmother to Kate’s husband, Prince William. Not necessarily royal, but still notable for being part of high society at the time, Napoleon Bonaparte’s first wife, Josephine, was also given a sapphire ring by her future husband.

The ‘Red Carpet Gem’

The sapphire’s historical impact is not limited to its association with royalty. The jewel was also favoured by many modern high profile celebrities. Actresses in the mid-20th century, in particular, were commonly seen wearing them. Examples of these include Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly and Elizabeth Taylor, whose sapphire engagement ring was one of the largest in recorded history. Jacqueline Kennedy, wife of perhaps the most famous president in US history, was another notable wearer of this type of ring.

Frederick Holm is staff writer for of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From a diamond to a sapphire engagement ring from a princess cut to a platinum band, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.