Kate Middleton's Engagement Ring: Diana's Sapphire Halo

Kate Middleton's engagement ring is one of the most recognisable in the world, and its story is part of the appeal. The sapphire and diamond cluster first belonged to Princess Diana, and Prince William chose it when he proposed to Kate in 2010, giving the ring a second chapter as an heirloom.

It has kept blue sapphire engagement rings in fashion for decades. Here is what it is, why the sapphire-and-halo combination works so well, and how to capture the look. See more celebrity engagement rings for inspiration.

In short: Kate Middleton's engagement ring is a 12-carat oval blue sapphire surrounded by a halo of 14 round diamonds, set in white gold. Originally Princess Diana's ring, it is estimated to be worth several hundred thousand pounds today. Reve has recreated the look, the Kate Middleton Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring, available from £3,500.

The ring, in detail

The centre stone is a rich oval blue sapphire of around 12 carats, framed by a halo of fourteen round diamonds and set in white gold. The cool blue of the sapphire against the white metal and bright diamonds is what gives the ring its regal, timeless character.

Because sapphire is a hard, hard-wearing gemstone, it also makes a practical everyday ring, which is part of why it has endured across two generations.

• Centre stone: Oval blue sapphire, around 12 carats
• Surround: Halo of 14 round diamonds
• Metal: White gold
• Provenance: Originally Princess Diana's ring
• Given: Prince William to Kate, 2010

Why a sapphire and diamond halo works

A coloured centre stone framed by a diamond halo is a classic combination: the halo adds sparkle and makes the centre look larger, while the colour gives the ring personality. Blue sapphire is especially popular because it is durable enough for daily wear and pairs beautifully with both white and yellow metals. Our diamond education guide covers halo and cluster settings.

Why blue sapphire endures

Sapphire has been a symbol of loyalty and nobility for centuries, and at a Mohs hardness of 9 it is second only to diamond, making it ideal for an engagement ring. A saturated royal-blue sapphire in a diamond halo is about as timeless as coloured-stone rings get.

How to get the look

Choose an oval blue sapphire, frame it with a round-diamond halo, and set it in white gold or platinum. Because a fine sapphire costs far less than a comparable diamond, this is a genuinely attainable way to own a large, striking centre stone.

Prefer a ready-made version? Our own recreation captures the look: the Kate Middleton Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring, from £3,500.

Is a sapphire ring right for you?

Sapphire is durable, distinctive and steeped in history, which makes it a wonderful choice if you want colour and character. The main thing to consider is that it sparkles differently from a diamond, with more of a deep glow than white fire. If you love a rich blue and a ring with a story, it is hard to beat.

Frequently asked

What kind of ring is Kate Middleton's engagement ring?

It is a 12-carat oval blue sapphire surrounded by a halo of 14 round diamonds, set in white gold. It originally belonged to Princess Diana.

How much is Kate Middleton's engagement ring worth?

It is estimated to be worth several hundred thousand pounds today, having appreciated significantly since the 1980s. Exact figures are speculative.

Whose ring was it originally?

It was Princess Diana's engagement ring, chosen by her when she became engaged to Prince Charles in 1981. Prince William later proposed to Kate with the same ring in 2010.

Can I get a similar ring for less?

Yes. An oval blue sapphire in a diamond halo captures the same look, and a fine sapphire costs far less than a comparable diamond. Reve's own recreation starts from £3,500.

Design your own celebrity-inspired ring. Bring us a photo or just an idea, and our goldsmiths will create a bespoke sapphire and diamond ring, with free lifetime aftercare. Shop the Reve recreation or explore engagement rings.