In a shocking revelation that has sent ripples through royal circles and beyond, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, has reportedly accused her sister-in-law, Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, of altering the legendary engagement ring once worn by Princess Diana.
This iconic piece of jewelry, a stunning 12-carat Ceylon sapphire surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds set in 18-karat white gold, is more than a mere accessory—it’s a symbol of Diana’s enduring legacy. Meghan’s bold claim suggests that Kate modified the ring, originally given to her by Prince William, and that it rightfully belongs to Meghan to fulfill its true potential. This accusation has reignited tensions between the two duchesses, stirring up a storm of speculation about family rivalries, royal traditions, and the emotional weight of Diana’s heirlooms.
The saga of Princess Diana’s engagement ring began in 1981 when Prince Charles selected it for his then-fiancée, Diana Spencer. Valued at approximately $60,000 at the time, the ring’s worth has soared to over $500,000 today, reflecting its historical and emotional significance. After Diana’s tragic death in 1997, the ring passed to Prince William, who used it to propose to Kate Middleton in 2010 during a romantic trip to Kenya.
William’s decision was deeply personal, a way to keep his mother’s memory close during a pivotal moment in his life. However, reports have surfaced that Kate had the ring adjusted shortly after the engagement to better fit her finger, with small platinum beads added to the band to ensure a snug fit. This minor alteration, practical as it may have been, is now at the heart of Meghan’s allegations.
Meghan’s perspective, as suggested by the claim, is that the ring’s legacy is tied to its original form, and any modification risks diluting its symbolic power. As a figure who has often positioned herself as a champion of Diana’s humanitarian spirit, Meghan reportedly believes she could better honor the ring’s heritage. Since stepping back from royal duties in 2020, Meghan and Prince Harry have carved out a life in California, focusing on philanthropy and media ventures. Meghan’s connection to Diana is further underscored by her wearing other pieces from Diana’s collection, such as an aquamarine ring at her 2018 wedding reception. Her claim to the sapphire ring may stem from a desire to carry forward Diana’s legacy in a way she feels is more aligned with her own public persona.
The accusation has fueled speculation about the ongoing rift between the Sussexes and the Waleses. Relations between the two couples have been strained since Harry and Meghan’s departure from royal life, with public moments of tension, such as their minimal interaction at a 2020 Commonwealth Day service.
Kate, known for her understated elegance and commitment to royal duties, has rarely responded publicly to such controversies. Her choice to wear the ring consistently, except during certain public engagements like sports events for practical reasons, reflects her respect for its significance. Yet, Meghan’s claim introduces a narrative of competition, suggesting a deeper struggle over who best embodies Diana’s spirit.
The ring itself is a cultural touchstone, its sapphire gleaming as a reminder of Diana’s grace and vulnerability. Its journey from Diana’s hand to Kate’s has been meticulously documented, with every public appearance sparking admiration. The adjustment Kate made was a practical one, yet Meghan’s accusation frames it as an act of disrespect, igniting debates among royal watchers about ownership and legacy. Some see Meghan’s stance as an attempt to reclaim a piece of Diana’s story, while others view it as a provocative move in an already fraught family dynamic.
This controversy underscores broader themes within the royal family: tradition versus modernity, duty versus independence. Kate, as the future queen consort, represents continuity, her style often echoing Diana’s elegance while maintaining a distinct identity. Meghan, by contrast, has embraced a more outspoken role, challenging royal norms. The ring, a tangible link to Diana, becomes a battleground for these differing visions. Whether Meghan’s claim will escalate into further public exchanges remains uncertain, but it has undeniably reignited fascination with the royal family’s complex dynamics.
As the world watches, the question lingers: who truly carries Diana’s legacy? For now, the sapphire ring remains on Kate’s finger, a sparkling symbol of love, loss, and the enduring drama of the House of Windsor.
