Royal watchers have spotted what appears to be another significant change to Meghan Markle’s ever-evolving engagement ring. Eagle-eyed fans picked up on the updates during the trailer for her new Netflix show “With Love, Meghan” and during her recent appearances at the Invictus Games earlier this week.
It has been noted that the centre stone of the 43-year-old ring has been transformed from its original cushion shape to a square cut. This marks the latest in a series of alterations to the ring, which Prince Harry first presented to her back in 2017.
The couple got hitched a year later at Windsor Castle in the presence of the late Queen Elizabeth and other senior Royals. However, they stepped down as working members of the Monarchy just two years later.
Neil Dutta, Managing Director of engagement ring specialists Angelic Diamonds has suggested that these significant amendments to the iconic piece tell a a story of personal growth and changing roles. He claimed that they symbolise her journey “from actress to royal to global media personality.”
Originally, it was made up of three stones in the shape, with the centre featuring a large cushion-cut shape. The ring was designed by Prince Harry and crafted by Cleave & Company, which was the Queen’s jeweller.
It has been suggested that the middle stone from Botswana was three carats. While the two that sat on either side were from Princess Diana’s jewelry collection.
When they announced, they were going to hitched, at the time Meghan said that it was important to her to know that Harry’s late mother was “a part of this with us”. However, it appears that she has swapped the centre diamond has been swapped for an emerald-cut stone.
Neil Dutta explained: “This is a significant departure from the original cushion-cut diamond, reflecting a more contemporary aesthetic.”
The expert continued: “Emerald-cut diamonds are known for their elegant, step-cut facets and elongated shape. This change could potentially increase the ring’s value to around £300,000.”
The new cut offers a sleeker, more modern look that aligns beautifully with Meghan’s evolving style and public persona.
“But what’s particularly interesting is how this change symbolises Meghan’s transformation from royal life to her current role in a myriad of things. The emerald cut is often associated with confidence and clarity – qualities Meghan may feel she has since leaving the royal family.”
Although in 2022 there subtle but impactful changes were made as additional diamonds were added to the setting which were debuted at the Invictus Games in The Hague.
Neil claimed: “This enhancement likely boosted the ring’s value to approximately £250,000. The additional diamonds serve to amplify the ring’s overall brilliance, drawing more attention to detail.”
He added: “This could be seen as a metaphor for Meghan and Harry’s increased focus on their personal projects and charitable endeavours post-royal life.
“Interestingly, the Invictus Games hold special significance for the couple – it’s where they made their first public appearance together in 2017. The ring’s upgrade at this event seems to celebrate their journey together and their shared commitment to causes close to their hearts.”
Although, the adpations were first noted in 2019 when celebrity jeweller Lorraine Schwartz replaced the yellow gold band which at the time was said to be Meghan’s favourite metal material.
Neil notes: “The yellow gold band was replaced with a delicate micro-pavé diamond band, adding extra sparkle and a more contemporary feel to the ring.”
He went on to say: “This change coincided with the couple’s first wedding anniversary and the birth of their son, Archie. To commemorate these milestones, an eternity ring was added to Meghan’s stack, featuring the birthstones of Meghan (peridot), Harry (emerald), and Archie (sapphire) on the underside.
Speaking of the current design Neil concluded: “These changes in Meghan’s ring are a beautiful reflection of her personal growth and evolving style.” The expert claimed that each stage tells a story of transformation tells of Meghan and Harry’s love story.
“As Meghan steps into her new role with the upcoming Netflix series, her ring continues to be a sparkling symbol of her journey – past, present, and future. It’s a testament to the idea that our most precious jewellery can evolve with us, reflecting our changing styles, experiences, and the new facets of our lives,” he concluded.