Why Princess Eugenie’s Engagement Ring is the Rarest in the Royal Family

Princess Eugenie’s engagement ring is a true marvel, standing out as one of the most unique and extraordinary pieces in royal history. When Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank announced their engagement in January 2018, the world eagerly awaited a glimpse of the ring.

Royal watchers, accustomed to the timeless elegance of Kate Middleton’s sapphire engagement ring (once belonging to Princess Diana) and the modern brilliance of Meghan Markle’s diamond trio, were unprepared for Eugenie’s choice: a rare and mesmerizing pink-orange padparadscha sapphire.

Padparadscha sapphires, named after the Sinhalese word for “aquatic lotus blossom,” are some of the rarest gemstones in the world. Their delicate blend of pink and orange hues evokes the beauty of a sunset, making them unlike traditional blue sapphires. Sourced primarily from Sri Lanka, these gems are treasured for their uniqueness, rarity, and warm, romantic tones.

The stone at the center of Eugenie’s ring, estimated to be three to four carats, is particularly stunning. Its vibrant color shifts subtly under different lighting, a quality that Jack himself said reminded him of Eugenie’s multifaceted personality.

The design of the ring reflects both timeless royal tradition and a personal touch. The oval-cut padparadscha sapphire is surrounded by a halo of ten brilliant-cut diamonds and two pear-cut diamonds, all set on a classic Welsh yellow gold band—an enduring royal favorite.

The resemblance to the engagement ring of Eugenie’s mother, Sarah Ferguson, is undeniable, as Ferguson’s ruby-centered ring also featured a diamond halo. Yet, Eugenie’s choice of gemstone adds a modern twist, setting her apart as a royal who embraces individuality while honoring family traditions.

The proposal itself mirrored the romance of the ring. After seven years of dating, Jack proposed during a holiday in Nicaragua, with a breathtaking volcano as the backdrop. The moment was as unique and unforgettable as the ring he had chosen for Eugenie, symbolizing their shared journey and love.

Experts have valued the ring between £100,000 and £120,000, a testament to its rarity and quality. While other gemstones, such as morganite, can mimic the padparadscha sapphire’s color at a lower cost, Jack spared no effort in selecting an authentic stone, ensuring that the ring would be a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Eugenie’s engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a reflection of her character and her relationship with Jack. By choosing a gemstone so rare and unconventional, she signaled her individuality and her desire to forge her own path within the royal family. The padparadscha sapphire’s distinctive beauty and its symbolic connection to love, uniqueness, and transformation make it a perfect representation of Eugenie herself.

This remarkable ring has secured its place in royal history, not only as a dazzling accessory but also as a statement of love and personal expression. It will undoubtedly continue to captivate and inspire for generations to come, much like the princess who wears it.