More than just jewellery, engagement rings symbolise commitment, love, and glamour. Ruby engagement rings are among the most alluring because they radiate classic style and elegance. Some of the most admired people in history have donned ruby rings, from royals to celebrities, providing plenty of inspiration for anyone looking for a truly one-of-a-kind piece. Explore the realm of well-known ruby engagement rings and draw inspiration from these timeless styles.
The Fascination with Celebrity and Royal Ruby Engagement Rings
Rubies have long been associated with love. Unlike the traditional diamond engagement ring, ruby rings offer a splash of colour and a touch of individuality. When celebrities and royals opt for rubies, their choices often set trends. These rings tell stories of enduring romance and impeccable taste, making them a source of inspiration for those dreaming of their perfect ring.
Celebrity Ruby Engagement Rings
1. Jessica Simpson
Jessica Simpson’s stunning engagement ring features a central ruby flanked by two diamonds, creating a vintage-inspired look that’s both bold and feminine. This choice reflects her unique style and willingness to embrace unconventional designs. Presented by Eric Johnson in 2010, this ring is a distinctive piece designed by jeweller Neil Lane. The central ruby weighing over five carats, flanked by two pear-shaped diamonds, each exceeding two carats. Set in yellow gold, this design combines classic elegance with a personal touch, as the ruby is Jessica’s birthstone, symbolizing love and passion. The ring’s estimated value is around $100,000, highlighting the rarity and quality of the gemstones used.
2. Victoria Beckham
Victoria Beckham, renowned for her impeccable style, has amassed a remarkable collection of engagement rings throughout her marriage to David Beckham. Since their engagement in 1998, she has been seen wearing 15 different rings, each reflecting her evolving fashion sense and the couple’s enduring relationship, including a jaw-dropping ruby surrounded by diamonds. This design demonstrates how rubies can be both glamorous and modern.
In 2009, Victoria Beckham added a stunning oval-cut ruby engagement ring to her extensive collection. This exquisite piece features a deep red ruby, possibly of the sought-after “pigeon blood” hue, encircled by a halo of white diamonds, all set in a platinum band. The inclusion of a ruby in her collection highlights Victoria’s appreciation for vibrant gemstones and adds a unique touch to her array of engagement rings. This piece not only exemplifies her evolving fashion sense but also underscores the couple’s ongoing commitment to celebrating their journey together.
3. Elizabeth Taylor
The late Elizabeth Taylor, a Hollywood icon known for her love of exquisite jewellery, famously wore a Burmese ruby ring gifted to her by Mike Todd. Surrounded by diamonds, this piece is a testament to timeless elegance. The 33.19-carat Asscher-cut diamond ring, formerly known as the Krupp Diamond and later renamed the Elizabeth Taylor Diamond, stands out. This Cartier-designed piece marked the beginning of her renowned jewellery assemblage and her first coloured engagement ring, showcasing her appreciation for vibrant gemstones.
Royal Ruby Engagement Rings
Since rubies have traditionally been associated with strength, love, and protection, monarchy has always prized them. These gemstones have adorned rulers with unmatched elegance, from the beauty of Catherine of Aragon’s ruby ring in the 16th century to Queen Victoria’s magnificent ruby cluster that Prince Albert gave her.
In modern times, the tradition continues with Sarah Ferguson’s iconic Burmese ruby engagement ring, chosen by Prince Andrew to honour her fiery red hair, and Princess Margaret’s rose-inspired ruby and diamond piece that reflected her unique charm.
Contemporary royals, like Queen Mathilde of Belgium, embrace rubies for their timeless allure, as seen in her central ruby surrounded by diamonds. These royal ruby rings not only highlight the gemstone’s enduring appeal but also its deep symbolism of passion and prosperity, ensuring its place as a regal treasure through the ages.
Design Inspiration
Thinking about a ruby engagement ring? Here are some fun tips.
- First, pick a setting that means something to you, like Sarah Ferguson’s floral design or Jessica Simpson’s vintage vibe.
- You can also boost the ruby’s bold red with diamonds around it, just like many celebs do.
- Don’t shy away from unique shapes either, Elizabeth Taylor’s cushion-cut ruby is a great example if you want something different. Lastly, think about adding personal touches that reflect your true love story, like Princess Margaret’s rose inspired ring.
Find or Create a Ring with Personal Significance
Famous ruby engagement rings from celebrities and royals remind us that an engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewellery—it’s a deeply personal statement. Whether inspired by the vintage glamour of Elizabeth Taylor, the modern elegance of Victoria Beckham, or the regal beauty of Sarah Ferguson, let your choice reflect your unique love story. With a bit of creativity and inspiration, you can find or create a ruby engagement ring that’s as iconic as the ones worn by the stars.