“Royal blue” has been a popular term since 1789, but the word got a new life and meaning when Princess Diana chose a sapphire engagement ring in 1981. The storied 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire—which features 14 diamonds around the border—became part of the people’s princess’s iconic style alongside her signature handbags and off-duty looks, and it now continues its legacy on none other than Kate Middleton, who received the ring when Prince William proposed back in 2010. At multiple points in history, the ring has singlehandedly set the world into a sapphire-and-diamond-induced frenzy—and for good reason. Ahead, learn all about Princess Diana and Kate’s sapphire engagement ring, plus see 13 sapphire and sapphire-inspired jewelry pieces to shop.
About the Ring
In 1840, Prince Albert asked British jewelry house Garrard to make a custom sapphire and diamond brooch for his then-fiancée, Queen Victoria. The brooch quickly became her prized possession—so much so that she wore it as her "something blue" on her wedding dress and, later, left it as a crown heirloom in her will. Queen Elizabeth II eventually received the piece, which she adored and wore to some of the most important occasions in her life.
When her son, Prince Charles, and Princess Diana were engaged, they returned to Garrard and fell for a sapphire and diamond ring that evoked the beloved brooch. Typically, the royals would go the custom route, but this was a stock piece and, as such, anyone who could afford it could buy the same exact ring. This only amplified Diana’s “people’s princess” energy as she cherished the piece and wore it throughout her time in the spotlight.
After Diana’s tragic death, the ring stayed in the family, eventually falling into her sons Prince William and Harry's possession along with her gold Cartier watch. William initially asked for the watch, and Harry chose the sapphire ring—but as Harry witnessed William’s love for Kate, he gave it to William in exchange for the watch so that William could use it to propose.
Sapphires are stunning and definitively regal. Beyond their classic blue, they're also available in colors like pink and warm yellow, so there's a variation for everyone to fall in love with. No matter which you choose, the precious gemstone represents virtue, good fortune, nobility, and truth—and in an engagement ring, the sapphire symbolizes sincerity and faithfulness. Read on for our favorite sapphire and sapphire-inspired jewelry pieces to shop now, whether you have a milestone coming up or are simply looking to treat yourself.
The Best Sapphire Jewelry Pieces to Shop
Tube Ring
Carelle Whirl Single Sapphire Ring $1,885.00
We love how this piece features two single sapphires amidst an overlapping, brushed gold tube to create a modern, minimalist take on a sapphire ring. Even though it comprises precious materials, this ring is suitable for casual wear—truly embodying quiet luxury.
Birthstone Studs
Starling Birthstone Earrings $250.00
These gold or silver-rimmed stud earrings are a perfect way to infuse your daily jewelry rotation with a hint of regality—whether you're a September baby with a sapphire for a birthstone or simply love the vivid blue gem. Starling is owned and operated by women, and these earrings are made with certified recycled materials in Los Angeles.
Sapphire Cactus
Oscar de la Renta Crystal Cactus Earrings $520.00
These dazzling, cactus-inspired branch earrings evoke the boldness and colors of Diana’s engagement ring thanks to the stunning blue pear-cut crystals with white round-cut gems around the border. They’re stunningly extravagant statement earrings to wear with a simple suit or an LBD.
Casual Homage
Don’t Let Disco The Fortune Ribbon Necklace $545.00
If you love how the iconic royal engagement ring has added a pop of color to both Diana and Kate’s outfits over the years but are looking for a casual take, opt for a chic beaded necklace. This one alternates vivid blue with glassy clear beads, and we imagine it would be a fun decadent-meets-playful option for vacations or embodying Palm Beach chic style.
Understated Ring
Silent Opus Uno Ring $610.00
This customizable ring, available in white or yellow gold, has a round blue sapphire set in a slightly domed band, ideal for stacking with other rings. Silent Opus doesn’t make inventory or stock items—each ring is made-to-order, which makes your purchase feel that much more special.
Dreamy Hoops
ByChari Birthstone Huggie $200.00
This small gold huggie hoop features 13 studded sapphires for a nice shot of vivid color. ByChari sells these earrings individually, so it’s ideal for a unique piercing placement like your helix or conch, or you can buy two and wear them as a set.
Open Heart
Maya Brenner The Sweetheart Necklace $798.00
Wear your heart proudly around your neck with this subtle token of admiration. This necklace features a sweet carved blue sapphire that floats on a 14-karat rose, white, or yellow gold cable chain.
Regal Baroque
Sterling King Lola Crystal Baroque Pearl Drop Earrings $400.00
Handmade in New York, these dangling statement earrings feature baroque white pearls and faceted blue crystals nestled within sculptural gold.
Chained in Decadence
Octavia Elizabeth Nesting Gem Bracelet $595.00
If you’re searching for a delicate yet intentional chain to wear every day, look no further. This solid 18k gold bracelet steals the show with a subtle and stunning blue sapphire, set within a hammered bezel.
A Rose (Garden) by Any Other Name
Bleue Burnham The Rose Garden Signet $684.00
This made-to-order, sustainably crafted signet ring, set with six glowing sapphires, features textured silver to evoke the foliage of a rose garden (major Bridgerton vibes, if you ask us). Signet rings are classic, and this is an interesting take on the design.
Statement Square
Minty 18k Yellow Gold Bleue Ceramic Sapphire Ring $2,400.00
Vivid blue is the name of the game with this ring. If you find yourself obsessing over the royal stone, this 65-carat blue lab-created sapphire, framed by white pavé diamonds and blue-toned ceramic, is a must.
Through the Grapevine
Bea Bongiasca Double Vine Tendril Ring $1,140.00
This ring is seriously playful and beautifully balanced. Twists of navy hand-painted blue enamel vine tendrils lead into blue drop-cut topaz gems for a dashing dose of royal blue.
Ombré Elegance
Jia Jia Arizona Ombré Blue Sapphire Necklace $580.00
This hand-beaded necklace features an array of blue sapphires in every shade, chained together with 14k gold. It’s ideal for wearing with a tank top or a simple strapless dress. Sapphires are incredibly strong (second only to diamonds), so this necklace is surprisingly durable.
