Celebrity Engagement Rings: The Most Expensive & Iconic!
By Gary A.
Edited by Brian M.
Published Aug 29, 2024
Edited on Dec 6, 2024
You don’t have to be on the guestlist for the Met Gala to feel like Hollywood royalty. Romance is free – and, while diamonds aren’t cheap, it’s easy enough to replicate your dream celebrity engagement ring…
Navigate this guide:
Introduction to Celebrity Engagement Rings
5 Practical Tips for Creating a Diamond Engagement Ring Similar to Celebrity Engagement Rings
Iconic Celebrity Engagement Rings
The Most Expensive Celebrity Engagement Rings
Unique Celebrity Engagement Rings
Popular Engagement Ring Designers
How to Recreate the Celebrity Engagement Ring Look
Our Expert Take
7 Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrity Engagement Rings
Top Celebrities Engagement Ring Highlights
Introduction to Celebrity Engagement Rings
As one Hogwarts professor once said, “Celebrity is as celebrity does”. And what does a celebrity do? Well, for starters, it invests top dollar into the most lavish and head-turning engagement rings the world has ever seen. These VIPs have a way of setting the bar impossibly high.
From jaw-dropping price tags to designs that are as unique as the stars themselves, these rings are more than just symbols of love—they’re statements of style, wealth, and individuality.
How Celebrities Set Trends
What makes a ring truly iconic is not just its design or cost, but the way it influences public taste. These days, social media is arguably the biggest driver behind trend setting celebrity engagements. From their own selfies to the many paparazzi shots and red-carpet shoots that end up on your feed, most of us see a hashtag-breaking rock on the finger of one of Hollywood’s elite at least once or twice a month.
And you know what they say? Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery – and we’re pretty sincere about wanting to emulate our favorite A-listers.
Before we dive deeper into the specifics, here are some practical tips to help guide your decision-making process:
5 Practical Tips for Creating a Diamond Engagement Ring Similar to Celebrity Engagement Rings
Tip 1: Choose the Right Diamond Shape
Celebrity engagement rings often feature unique and standout diamond shapes. Consider popular choices like oval, emerald, or cushion cuts, which are frequently seen on the fingers of celebrities like Blake Lively, Kim Kardashian, and Meghan Markle. These shapes not only offer a distinct look but also enhance the overall brilliance and appeal of the ring.
Tip 2: Consider Customization for a Personal Touch
Many celebrities opt for custom-designed engagement rings that reflect their personal style and story. When creating a ring inspired by a celebrity, consider adding personalized elements like engravings, hidden stones, or unique band designs. This customization can make the ring feel exclusive and tailored to your preferences.
Tip 3: Prioritize Diamond Certification and Ethical Sourcing
While focusing on aesthetics, it’s also important to ensure that the diamond is certified and ethically sourced. Many celebrity engagement rings are known for their high ethical standards. Opt for diamonds that are conflict-free and come with proper certification, ensuring that your ring not only looks good but also aligns with responsible practices.
Tip 4: Incorporate Unique and Luxurious Materials
Celebrity engagement rings often incorporate rare and luxurious materials, such as platinum or rose gold bands. Consider using these high-quality metals to give your ring a luxurious feel. Additionally, some celebrities include colored gemstones or accent diamonds to add a personal touch and make the ring truly unique.
Tip 5: Ensure Proportionate Design and Balance
A key characteristic of celebrity engagement rings is their well-balanced and proportionate design. Ensure that the diamond is neither too large nor too small for the band, and that the overall design complements the wearer’s hand. This balance is crucial for achieving a refined and elegant look, similar to those seen on high-profile celebrities.
Now that you’ve got these practical tips, use Jeweler AI below to find the perfect engagement ring that suits your style and budget:
Iconic Celebrity Engagement Rings
Safe to say heads are always turning for celebrity engagements, but a few choice gems stand out from all the rest…
Kate Middleton’s Sapphire Ring
One of the most iconic engagement rings of all time belongs to Kate Middleton, now Catherine, Princess of Wales. The ring originally belonged to Princess Diana and was chosen by Prince Charles in 1981. The stunning piece features a 12 carat oval Ceylon blue sapphire, surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds, all set in 18-karat white gold. At the time of Princess Diana’s engagement, the ring was valued at around $37,500, but today, its value has soared to approximately $500,000, largely due to its historical significance and royal association. The ring’s design was inspired by a sapphire brooch that belonged to Queen Victoria, making it a piece rich in both beauty and history.
Kim Kardashian’s 20 carat Diamond
Kim Kardashian’s engagement ring from Kanye West is a show-stopping 20 carat diamond ring designed by celebrity jeweler Lorraine Schwartz. The ring features a flawless emerald-cut diamond set on a simple, thin platinum band, emphasizing the diamond’s size and brilliance. Originally, the ring was valued at $4.5 million, but its value and notoriety increased following its unfortunate theft in Paris in 2016. This ring was actually Kim’s second engagement ring from Kanye, after her first was a 15 carat cushion cut diamond from the same jeweler, also incredibly valuable.
Other Notable Rings
Other celebrity engagement rings worth mentioning include Jennifer Lopez’s pink diamond from Ben Affleck, which is estimated at $4.5 million. This rare 6.1 carat pink diamond was a bold and unconventional choice at the time, setting a trend for colored diamonds in engagement rings. Another iconic ring is Grace Kelly’s 10.47 carat emerald cut diamond ring, which was given to her by Prince Rainier III of Monaco and is valued at over $4 million today. These rings, along with those of other celebrities, continue to set trends and remain symbols of luxury and elegance
The Most Expensive Celebrity Engagement Rings
Celebrity engagement rings are often as famous as the stars who wear them – along with the price tags!
Record-Breaking Prices
Mariah Carey’s 35 carat Diamond Ring ($10 million): Topping the list of the most expensive celebrity engagement rings is Mariah Carey’s jaw-dropping 35 carat diamond ring, given to her by Australian billionaire James Packer. Designed by Wilfredo Rosado, the ring features an emerald cut diamond set in platinum, flanked by two tapered baguette diamonds. The massive size and near-perfect quality of the diamond propelled its value to an astonishing $10 million, making it one of the most expensive engagement rings ever. Although the couple eventually called off their engagement, the ring remains a symbol of unparalleled extravagance in the world of celebrity jewelry.
Elizabeth Taylor’s 33.19 carat Krupp Diamond ($8.8 million): Another record-breaking engagement ring is the Krupp Diamond, famously owned by Elizabeth Taylor. The 33.19 carat Asscher cut diamond was given to Taylor by her husband, Richard Burton, in 1968. Known for its exceptional clarity and the fascinating history behind it, the diamond was named after the Krupp family, who were its previous owners. The ring was eventually sold at auction in 2011 for $8.8 million, further solidifying its status as one of the most valuable pieces of celebrity jewelry.
Jennifer Lopez’s Pink Diamond ($4.5 million): Jennifer Lopez’s engagement ring from Ben Affleck, featuring a rare 6.1 carat pink diamond, also commands a place among the most expensive celebrity rings. Designed by Harry Winston, the ring’s unique color and flawless quality made it a trendsetter in the world of engagement rings, especially for those seeking something beyond the traditional white diamond. The ring’s estimated value is around $4.5 million, and it continues to be celebrated as one of the most iconic engagement rings in history.
These rings are more than just jewelry; they are symbols of luxury, power, and the high-stakes world of celebrity relationships. Each of these record-breaking rings has its own story, often reflecting the larger-than-life personas of the celebrities who wore them. As engagement rings continue to evolve, these extraordinary pieces will remain benchmarks for extravagance and elegance in the world of fine jewelry.
Unique Celebrity Engagement Rings
Don’t get us wrong – we love a classic solitaire and frequently get the heart-eyes emoji when one flashes in front of us. Then again, we can’t resist a unique ring – especially if it’s backed by sentimental meaning – or just an appreciation for a rare diamond!
Unusual Designs and Materials
One of the most distinctive celebrity engagement rings is that of Scarlett Johansson. Her ring, given to her by Colin Jost, features an 11 carat light brown, oval-shaped diamond set on a black ceramic band. This combination of an unconventional color and material makes it a standout piece that perfectly reflects Johansson’s unique style. Similarly, Katy Perry’s engagement ring from Orlando Bloom is also noteworthy for its design. The ring features a vivid pink oval cut diamond surrounded by smaller white diamonds in a floral halo pattern, evoking a vintage, yet playful aesthetic.
Another example is Halle Berry’s engagement ring from Olivier Martinez. This ring is a square cut emerald set in a yellow gold band. What makes it particularly unique is the Phoenician code engraved on the band, which is said to tell the story of the couple’s love. These rings demonstrate how celebrities often push the boundaries of traditional design, opting for rings that tell a personal story or reflect their unique personalities.
Celebrities Who Chose Non-Traditional Rings
Some celebrities choose to break away from diamonds altogether, opting for alternative gemstones or materials. For example, Princess Eugenie’s engagement ring features a rare padparadscha sapphire, a pinkish-orange stone surrounded by diamonds. Quite unusual, especially for a royal!
Another example is Jessica Simpson’s ruby engagement ring from Eric Johnson. The ring features a 5 carat ruby flanked by two pear shaped diamonds, set in yellow gold. The ruby was chosen because it’s Simpson’s birthstone, adding a layer of sentiment to the ring.
Popular Engagement Ring Designers
When it comes to celebrity engagement rings, the designers behind these masterpieces are just as important as the rings themselves. How do you even begin to turn a celebrity’s dream into a reality?
Lorraine Schwartz: The Jeweler to the Stars
Lorraine Schwartz is a name synonymous with luxury and celebrity jewelry. Known for her bold, glamorous designs, Schwartz has created engagement rings for some of the biggest names in Hollywood. Her client list includes Beyoncé, who sports an 18 carat emerald-cut diamond ring, and Kim Kardashian, whose 20 carat diamond ring was a showstopper before its unfortunate theft. Schwartz’s designs are characterized by their large, flawless diamonds and her use of rare and unique gemstones.
One of Schwartz’s hallmarks is her ability to create rings that are both classic and contemporary, appealing to a wide range of tastes. Her rings often feature clean, elegant lines that allow the beauty of the gemstone to take center stage. This minimalist approach, combined with the highest quality materials, has made Lorraine Schwartz the go-to jeweler for those looking to make a statement with their engagement ring.
Neil Lane: A Hollywood Favorite
Neil Lane is another celebrated designer who has made a significant impact in the world of celebrity engagement rings. Known for his vintage-inspired designs, Lane’s rings often feature intricate detailing, such as filigree and milgrain, that give them a timeless, romantic feel. His rings are particularly popular among Hollywood stars, with clients including Reese Witherspoon, who received a 4 carat Ashoka-cut diamond ring from Jim Toth, and Jennifer Hudson, who wore a stunning 5 carat round brilliant diamond set in a platinum band.
Lane’s ability to blend classic design elements with modern sensibilities has made him a favorite for those looking for an engagement ring with a story. His rings often feature unique cuts and settings that evoke the glamour of old Hollywood, while still feeling fresh and relevant today. Neil Lane’s designs are perfect for those who appreciate the artistry of fine jewelry and want a ring that feels both timeless and uniquely theirs.
How to Recreate the Celebrity Engagement Ring Look
If you’ve fallen head over heels for a celebrity ring, then you don’t need to be deterred by the price tag – there are lots of ways you can emulate that style at a level more befitting us regular folk.
Important notes to keep in mind:
Note 1 Understanding Diamond Quality
Celebrities often opt for diamonds that are not only large but also of exceptional quality. When choosing your diamond, consider the 4Cs: Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color. These factors determine the diamond’s overall appearance and value.
Carat: This refers to the weight of the diamond. While celebrities often choose diamonds that are 10 carats or more, you can achieve a similar impact with a well-cut 2 to 3 carat diamond. The key is to balance size with quality.
Cut: A well-cut diamond reflects light beautifully, making it sparkle more. Even if the carat weight is smaller, a superior cut can make the diamond appear larger and more brilliant.
Clarity: Clarity refers to the presence of internal or external flaws (inclusions and blemishes). Celebrities typically choose diamonds with high clarity ratings (VVS1 or higher). Opting for a slightly lower clarity grade (such as VS1 or VS2) can save money without compromising much on appearance.
Color: Diamonds range from colorless to slightly yellow or brown. The most valuable diamonds are completely colorless (D, E, F grades), but near-colorless diamonds (G, H, I) can still appear stunning and are more affordable.
Note 2 Choosing the Right Cut and Setting
Arguably the easiest way to capture the essence of a celebrity ring is by picking the same shape and ring style. How many emerald three stone engagement rings have been bought because of Grace Kelly? We’d wager quite a few…
Cut: While round cuts are classic, many celebrities opt for more unique shapes such as emerald, oval, or pear cuts. For example, Beyoncé’s ring features an emerald cut, while Blake Lively’s ring has an oval shape. These cuts offer a sophisticated and distinctive look.
Setting: The setting can dramatically change the appearance of a ring. Celebrities often choose settings that highlight the diamond, such as a solitaire setting that emphasizes the stone’s size, or a halo setting that adds extra sparkle. For a modern twist, consider a bezel setting, which encases the diamond in a thin metal rim, offering both style and protection.
Note 3 Selecting the Ideal Metal
Celebrities often opt for platinum or gold, but there are other options to consider:
Platinum: Known for its durability and hypoallergenic properties, platinum is a favorite among celebrities. It’s also one of the most expensive metals, but its natural white luster enhances the brilliance of diamonds, making it worth the investment.
White Gold: White gold offers a similar look to platinum but at a lower cost. However, it requires occasional rhodium plating to maintain its shine.
Yellow Gold: Yellow gold is a great choice for a classic and timeless look. It has made a comeback in recent years, with many celebrities opting for this warm-toned metal.
Rose Gold: Rose gold’s pinkish hue adds a romantic and vintage touch to any ring. It’s less common but has been chosen by stars like Blake Lively, making it a unique yet elegant option.
Note 4 Incorporating Personal Touches
Why not consider…
Custom Engraving: Consider engraving the inside of the band with a meaningful date, initials, or a short phrase that holds significance for you and your partner.
Alternative Gemstones: While diamonds are traditional, incorporating your partner’s birthstone or a gemstone that holds special meaning can make the ring even more personal. For instance, Jessica Simpson’s ruby ring is a nod to her birthstone, adding a layer of personal significance.
Design Features: Work with a jeweler to create a custom design that includes symbols or motifs that are meaningful to you. This could be anything from an infinity symbol to intertwining bands that represent your connection.
Note 5 Staying Within Budget
Here’s how you can do that:
Prioritize the 4Cs: Decide which aspects of the 4Cs are most important to you and be flexible with the others. For example, you might prioritize carat size and cut, but opt for a slightly lower clarity or color grade to stay within budget.
Choose a Smaller Center Stone: Instead of a 10 carat diamond, consider a smaller diamond with a high-quality cut. The right setting can make a smaller diamond look larger than it is.
Before we dive farther into celebrities engagement rings, use Jeweler AI below to find the perfect engagement ring that suits your style and budget:
Our Expert Take
Everybody wants to feel like a celebrity for a day, but you can make your bride-to-be feel like a VIP for the rest of her life by drawing on some of the more luxurious and sentimental elements of celebrity engagement rings – even if you can’t afford the price tag.
Putting time and thought into your ring is what really matters, and we’re sure any of the rings mentioned in this article received a very high level of attention from their maker. Embrace the process, be as sentimental as you can, and let the diamond do the talking.
7 Frequently Asked Questions About Celebrity Engagement Rings
Q: What are the most popular diamond shapes for celebrity engagement rings?
A: Oval, emerald, and cushion cuts are among the most popular shapes for celebrity engagement rings, often chosen for their unique appearance and brilliance.
Q: Do celebrities prefer larger carat diamonds?
A: Yes, celebrities often opt for larger carat diamonds, typically 5 carats or more, to make a bold statement.
Q: What settings are commonly used in celebrity engagement rings?
A: Popular settings include halo, solitaire, and pavé styles, which enhance the size and sparkle of the diamond.
Q: Are colored gemstones common in celebrity engagement rings?
A: Yes, colored gemstones like sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are frequently used, either as the center stone or as accents, adding a unique touch.
Q: What metals are most often used in celebrity engagement rings?
A: Platinum and rose gold are the most popular metals, known for their durability and luxurious appearance.
Q: How important is diamond certification for a celebrity-style engagement ring?
A: Very important. Diamond certification ensures the quality and authenticity of the diamond, which is crucial for creating a ring that mirrors celebrity standards.
Q: Can I customize my engagement ring to resemble a celebrity’s?
A: Absolutely. Customization allows you to incorporate personal touches while replicating the style and elegance of a celebrity engagement ring.
Top Celebrities Engagement Ring Highlights
Grace Kelly • Ring Details: 10.48-carat emerald-cut diamond flanked by two baguette-cut side stones. • Designer: Cartier. • Estimated Value: $38.8 million (today’s value). • Fiancé: Prince Rainier III of Monaco.
Francesca Farago • Ring Details: Toi-et-moi ring with a radiant-cut diamond and a marquise-cut diamond in a yellow gold and diamond vine setting. • Designer: Ring Concierge. • Fiancé: Jesse Sullivan.
Blake Lively • Ring Details: 12-carat oval-cut pink diamond set on a rose gold pavé band. • Designer: Lorraine Schwartz. • Estimated Value: $2 million. • Fiancé: Ryan Reynolds.
Princess Diana (Kate Middleton) • Ring Details: 12-carat oval sapphire surrounded by 14 round diamonds on a white gold band. • Designer: Garrard. • Estimated Value: $400,000. • Fiancé: Prince Charles (later passed to Kate Middleton by Prince William).
Mariah Carey • Ring Details: 35-carat emerald-cut diamond flanked by baguette tapered side stones. • Designer: Wilfredo Rosado. • Estimated Value: $10 million. • Fiancé: James Packer.
Meghan Markle • Ring Details: 3-carat cushion-cut diamond flanked by two smaller side diamonds, set in yellow gold. • Designer: Cleave & Company. • Fiancé: Prince Harry.
Bindi Irwin • Ring Details: 2.01-carat lab-grown diamond in a recycled rose gold setting, featuring a twisted band with scattered diamonds. • Fiancé: Chandler Powell.
Millie Bobby Brown • Ring Details: Between 3 to 3.5 carat square-shaped diamond solitaire. • Fiancé: Jake Bongiovi.
Olivia Culpo • Ring Details: 8 carat Central oval stone with epaulette diamonds on each side. • Fiancé: Christian McCaffrey.
Kate Bosworth • Ring Details: Estimated around 10 carat solitaire diamond on a fine gold band. • Fiancé: Justin Long.
Rebel Wilson • Ring Details: 2.55 carat natural diamond Tiffany & Co. engagement ring. • Fiancé: Ramona Agruma.
Jennifer Lopez • Ring Details: 8.5-carat cushion cut green diamond. • Designer: Ilan Portugali of Beverly Hills Diamonds. • Fiancé: Ben Affleck (second engagement).
Megan Fox • Ring Details: 6 carat merged diamond and green emerald pear-shaped ring. • Designer: Stephen Webster. • Fiancé: Machine Gun Kelly.
Beanie Feldstein • Ring Details: Vintage-inspired ring featuring pear-shaped diamonds surrounding a large central diamond. • Fiancé: Bonnie Chance Roberts.
Sofia Richie • Ring Details: Around 6 carat emerald-cut diamond with a plain platinum band. • Fiancé: Elliot Grainge.
Lana Condor • Ring Details: Oval-shaped diamond with a bezel-set diamond band. • Designer: Paris Jewellers Canada. • Fiancé: Anthony De La Torre.
Simone Biles • Ring Details: 3 carat F VVS2 diamond center stone mounted on a pavé diamond band. • Fiancé: Jonathan Owens.
Margaret Qualley • Ring Details: 4 carat round solitaire diamond with a simple, braided band. • Fiancé: Jack Antonoff.
Romee Strijd • Ring Details: Round diamond solitaire ring. • Fiancé: Laurens Van Leeuwen.
Joey King • Ring Details: Approximately 3 carat oval solitaire diamond bordered on one side by three baguettes. • Fiancé: Steven Piet.
Kourtney Kardashian • Ring Details: Large 10 to 12 carats oval-shaped brilliant-cut diamond ring. • Designer: Lorraine Schwartz. • Fiancé: Travis Barker.
Dakota Johnson • Ring Details: Large emerald ring. • Fiancé: Chris Martin.
Demi Lovato • Ring Details: 12 carat Emerald-cut diamond with side stones. • Fiancé: Max Ehrich (engagement ended).
Keira Knightley • Ring Details: Simple diamond solitaire on a thin band. • Fiancé: James Righton.
Zara Phillips • Ring Details: Bespoke engagement ring. • Fiancé: Mike Tindall.
Nicole Richie • Ring Details: Four-carat diamond engagement ring designed by Neil Lane. • Fiancé: Joel Madden.
Katherine Heigl • Ring Details: Three-carat pear-shaped diamond surrounded by pavé diamonds. • Designer: Ryan Ryan. • Fiancé: Josh Kelley.
Jessica Alba • Ring Details: Five-carat diamond surrounded by smaller pave-set diamonds. • Fiancé: Cash Warren.
Kate Middleton • Ring Details: 18-carat sapphire surrounded by diamonds. • Designer: Garrard. • Fiancé: Prince William.
Victoria Beckham • Ring Details: Marquis-cut three-carat diamond with baguette diamonds on each side. • Designer: Asprey & Garrard. • Fiancé: David Beckham.
Ashlee Simpson • Ring Details: Unique engagement ring designed by Neil Lane. • Fiancé: Evan Ross.
Blake Lively • Ring Details: 12-carat oval-cut pink diamond. • Designer: Lorraine Schwartz. • Fiancé: Ryan Reynolds.
Explore Jeweler AI‘s personalized engagement ring recommendations, expertly tailored to navigate the evolving diamond industry.