Meghan Markle’s jewelry choices have consistently drawn public attention, and her collection of rings is no exception. Among these, a particularly significant piece is her eternity ring, a gift from Prince Harry marking their first wedding anniversary and the birth of their son, Archie. This ring is notable not only for its aesthetic beauty but also for its deeply personal symbolism, incorporating the birthstones of Meghan, Harry, and Archie. This article will explore the history, design, and significance of this unique piece, drawing exclusively from available sources.
History and Lore
The eternity ring was first publicly seen on Meghan Markle at Trooping the Colour in 2019. It was commissioned by Prince Harry from jewelry designer Lorraine Schwartz as a first anniversary gift, demonstrating a desire to commemorate their growing family. The gesture itself reflects a modern approach to royal gifting, prioritizing personal meaning over traditional extravagance. While eternity rings have a history dating back to ancient Egypt, symbolizing eternal love, this particular ring distinguishes itself through the inclusion of family birthstones.
The practice of associating gemstones with specific months or zodiac signs has ancient roots, evolving over centuries. However, the specific assignment of birthstones as we know them today largely solidified in the 19th and 20th centuries, influenced by jewelers’ associations and cultural trends. Meghan’s ring represents a contemporary interpretation of this tradition, blending it with a deeply personal narrative.
Design and Gemological Properties
The eternity ring is a diamond eternity band, meaning it is entirely encircled with diamonds. These diamonds are described as “conflict-free,” indicating an ethical sourcing approach. However, specific details regarding the cut, clarity, and carat weight of the diamonds are not provided in the available sources.
The true significance of the ring lies in the birthstones discreetly set on the underside of the band. These include peridot, representing Meghan’s birth month of August; emerald, representing Harry’s birth month of September; and sapphire, representing Archie’s birth month of May.
Here's a summary of the birthstones included in the ring:
| Birthstone | Month | Color | Associated with |
|---|---|---|---|
| Peridot | August | Olive Green | Protection |
| Emerald | September | Green | Mood Lifting |
| Sapphire | May | Blue | Anxiety Relief |
While the sources do not provide detailed gemological properties for the specific stones used in Meghan’s ring, general properties for these gemstones are well-established. Peridot is a variety of olivine, with a chemical formula of (Mg, Fe)₂SiO₄. Emerald is a variety of beryl, with a chemical formula of Be₃Al₂Si₆O₁₈. Sapphire is a variety of corundum, with a chemical formula of Al₂O₃. All three gemstones are relatively durable, though emerald is known for its relative fragility due to inclusions.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Beyond their aesthetic appeal, the birthstones incorporated into Meghan’s ring are believed to possess specific properties and symbolic meanings. Peridot is associated with alleviating illness in the eyes, stomach, thyroid, and liver, and is thought to aid with asthma and sinus issues. Emerald is believed to lift mood, cure insomnia, and detoxify the blood. Sapphire is said to strengthen one’s ability to deal with anxiety, stress, depression, and insomnia.
These beliefs stem from a long tradition of associating gemstones with healing powers and metaphysical properties. While not scientifically proven, these beliefs continue to resonate with many, and were specifically cited by crystal healing expert Angela Richardson in relation to Meghan’s ring. The diamonds themselves are also considered to enhance the powers of the other gemstones, bringing clarity of mind.
The placement of the birthstones on the underside of the band is also noteworthy. This suggests a more intimate and personal connection to the stones, as they are not immediately visible to others. It implies that the ring’s significance is primarily for Meghan, Harry, and their family, rather than a public display of wealth or status.
Expanding the Family: The Addition of Lilibet’s Birthstone
Following the birth of their daughter, Lilibet, in June 2021, speculation arose regarding whether Meghan’s eternity ring had been altered to include Lilibet’s birthstone. June’s birthstones are pearl, alexandrite, and moonstone. However, sources do not confirm whether the ring was modified to include one of these stones. Meghan is known to rotate her ring selection, and often wears a sparkler on her pinky finger, suggesting a flexible approach to her jewelry choices.
Meghan’s Broader Jewelry Collection
Meghan Markle’s jewelry collection is extensive and includes pieces with significant historical and personal value. She has inherited jewels from Princess Diana, including butterfly earrings, a gold bangle, a Cartier watch, and a large aquamarine ring. She also owns contemporary pieces from designers like Logan Hollowell, featuring diamonds and emeralds. The overall collection reflects a blend of classic elegance and modern sensibility.
Her engagement ring, originally featuring a thick gold band and diamonds from Harry’s mother’s collection, was later reset with a thinner, diamond-studded micro-pave gold band. This demonstrates a willingness to personalize and update her jewelry to reflect her evolving style.
Care and Cleaning
While specific care instructions for Meghan’s eternity ring are not provided, general guidelines apply to diamonds, peridot, emerald, and sapphire. Diamonds are relatively durable and can be cleaned with warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush. Emeralds, being more fragile, require more gentle cleaning and should avoid harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners. Sapphires and peridot are also relatively durable but should be protected from scratches and sudden temperature changes. Regular professional cleaning is recommended to maintain the brilliance and integrity of the gemstones.
Conclusion
Meghan Markle’s eternity ring is a compelling example of how jewelry can transcend mere adornment to become a powerful symbol of love, family, and personal meaning. The incorporation of birthstones – peridot, emerald, and sapphire – adds a layer of intimacy and significance to the piece, reflecting a modern approach to royal tradition. While the available sources provide a limited scope of information, they reveal a thoughtful and deeply personal gesture from Prince Harry, celebrating their growing family and the unique bond they share. The ring stands as a testament to the enduring power of symbolism in jewelry and its ability to encapsulate cherished memories and beliefs.
Sources
- Hello Magazine
- [The Sun](https://www.thesun.co.uk/