KATE Middleton’s iconic sapphire engagement ring is one of the most beautiful and recognisable jewellery pieces in Britain.
But did you know that it belonged to Prince Harry after Diana’s death, and he actually gave it to Kate instead of waiting for his future wife Meghan Markle?
A royal documentary has revealed that the Duchess of Sussex missed out on being the wearer of the spectacular £300,000 ring, as a “selfless” Prince Harry let his older brother use it for Kate.
In the Amazon Prime documentary “The Diana Story”, Princess Di’s former butler Paul Burrell confirmed that the ring had belonged to Prince Harry.
When his mum tragically passed away in 1997, Prince Harry had been allowed to select his favourite pieces from her jewels.
Just before Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton in 2010, Prince Harry offered his brother the chance to use the precious item, in honour of their mum.
Paul said on the documentary: “Harry said to him: ‘Wouldn’t it be fitting if she had mummy’s ring?’.”
The former royal butler said that the “selfless” act showed qualities installed in Prince Harry by his mother.
He added: “Then one day that ring will be sat on the throne of England. Harry gave up his precious treasure.
“His one thing he kept from his mother, he gave to his brother. That’s selfless, kind and exactly who Diana was.”
But Meghan didn’t miss out on a precious token from Princess Diana’s collection when he proposed over a chicken meal at Kensington Palace.
The stunning, yellow gold ring was designed by Prince Harry himself and includes a central stone from Botswana, where the pair recently went on holiday, and two diamonds from Diana’s collection.
Meghan said at the time it ensured Diana is “with us on this crazy journey together”.
She said: “Everything about Harry’s thoughtfulness and the inclusion of Princess Diana’s stones and obviously not being able to meet his mum.
“It’s so important to me to know that she’s a part of this with us.”
Cleave and Company, Court Jewellers and Medallists to Her Majesty The Queen all helped with the creation of the dazzling jewellery piece.
Botswana holds a special place in Harry’s heart, as he visited the location numerous times since he was a boy.
This is why Princess Diana had a secret second wedding dress – and it was a lot less extravagant.
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And this is the poignant reason Meghan Markle didn’t throw her wedding bouquet.
