The wedding ring of Queen Elizabeth II is one of the most iconic pieces of jewelry in the world. As the longest reigning British monarch, Queen Elizabeth’s marriage to Prince Philip has stood the test of time for over 70 years.
But beyond its sentimental value, this simple platinum band encrusted with diamonds is estimated to be worth a small fortune.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring could be worth around $500,000 in today’s market.
In this article, we’ll look at the history of the ring, its design and diamonds, estimates of its value over the decades, and why this royal wedding ring is so meaningful for the Queen.
The History and Symbolism of the Ring
Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring holds a rich history and profound symbolism. From the proposal to the wedding day in 1947, to the simplicity reflecting post-war Britain, and the Welsh gold band that has become a royal tradition, every aspect of this ring tells a story.
The proposal and wedding day in 1947
When Prince Philip proposed to Princess Elizabeth, he presented her with an engagement ring featuring a large square-cut diamond flanked by smaller diamonds. This stunning ring, made by the British jeweler, Philip Antrobus Ltd., was crafted using diamonds from a tiara belonging to Philip’s mother, Princess Alice of Battenberg.
The grand wedding ceremony took place on November 20, 1947, at Westminster Abbey. It was a joyous occasion that marked a new chapter in the history of the British monarchy. Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring played a significant role in cementing their love and commitment.
Simplicity reflecting post-war Britain
The design of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring reflects the simplicity and austerity of post-war Britain. In a time when resources were scarce, extravagant jewelry was seen as inappropriate and out of touch with the reality of the country.
The choice of a simple band was a deliberate statement by the royal couple to show solidarity and empathy with their people.
Queen Elizabeth’s ring became a symbol of hope and renewal during a challenging period. Its understated elegance resonated with the nation and showed the royal family’s commitment to serving their country and its people.
The Welsh gold band – a royal tradition
One of the most significant aspects of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring is the material from which it is made. The band is crafted from Welsh gold, a tradition that dates back to 1923 with the wedding of Queen Elizabeth’s parents, the Duke and Duchess of York.
Welsh gold has a special significance in the royal family, as it represents a connection to the land and people of Wales. It is also a rare and precious metal, adding to the value and uniqueness of the ring.
Since Queen Elizabeth’s wedding, several other members of the royal family have followed this tradition and incorporated Welsh gold into their wedding rings. This tradition has become a cherished symbol of the monarchy and a testament to the enduring love and commitment shared by each generation.
The Design and Diamonds
Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring holds immense value not only in sentimental terms but also in its exquisite design and the diamonds it features. Let’s take a closer look at the remarkable elements that make this ring so special.
A simple platinum band
The base of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring is a simple platinum band, symbolizing the purity and durability of their love. The choice of platinum ensures that the ring will withstand the test of time and retain its luster for generations to come.
It’s a classic and timeless design that perfectly complements the elegance and grace of the Queen.
Diamonds from a tiara
What truly sets Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring apart are the diamonds that adorn it. These diamonds were taken from a tiara belonging to the Queen’s mother, Lady Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. The tiara, known as the Queen Mary Fringe Tiara, was originally made for Queen Mary in 1919 and was passed down to Queen Elizabeth as a wedding gift.
The diamonds used in the wedding ring were carefully selected and represent a connection to the Queen’s family history, making it even more meaningful.
Other jewelry gifted for the wedding
In addition to the diamonds from the tiara, Queen Elizabeth received several other pieces of exquisite jewelry on her wedding day. One notable gift was a stunning diamond necklace given to her by her father, King George VI.
This necklace perfectly complemented her wedding gown and added a touch of sparkle to her already radiant presence. These additional pieces of jewelry further enhance the value of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring, making it a true reflection of the love and support she received on her special day.
Estimates of the Ring’s Value Over the Decades
Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring holds not only sentimental value but also significant monetary worth. Over the years, the value of the ring has appreciated, reflecting its historical significance and the legacy of the royal family.
Worth around £1,200 at the time of wedding
When Queen Elizabeth received her wedding ring from Prince Philip on November 20, 1947, the ring was valued at approximately £1,200. At the time, this was a considerable sum of money, reflecting the high quality of the materials used and the craftsmanship involved in creating the ring.
The ring itself was made from Welsh gold, a tradition that has been followed by the royal family for generations.
Estimates in the 1980s up to £60,000
As the years went by, the value of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring continued to increase. In the 1980s, during the height of the Princess Diana era, estimates placed the value of the ring at around £60,000.
The fascination with the royal family and the prominence of Princess Diana as a style icon contributed to the increased value attributed to the ring.
Today, around $500,000
In today’s market, the value of Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring is estimated to be around $500,000. This substantial increase in value is a testament to the ring’s historical significance and the enduring popularity of the royal family.
The ring’s value not only reflects its materials and craftsmanship but also the story it carries – the enduring love and commitment between Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip, who were married for over 70 years.
It’s important to note that the value of the ring may fluctuate over time due to changes in the market, demand for royal memorabilia, and other factors. However, its significance as a symbol of love and tradition remains priceless.
The Sentimental Value for the Queen
Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring holds immense sentimental value for her, serving as a constant reminder of her marriage to Prince Philip. The couple tied the knot on November 20, 1947, and their union has stood the test of time, enduring over seven decades.
The ring, made from Welsh gold, was given to the Queen by the late Prince Philip, who personally selected the precious material from the Clogau St. David’s Gold Mine in Bontddu, Wales. This beautiful token of love symbolizes their enduring commitment and the deep bond they shared.
A constant reminder of her marriage
Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring is more than just a piece of jewelry; it is a cherished memento that represents the lifelong commitment she made to Prince Philip. Every time she looks at her hand, she is reminded of the love, loyalty, and dedication that have characterized their marriage.
It serves as a symbol of their enduring love story and a testament to the strength of their relationship.
Her sense of duty and resilience
The Queen’s wedding ring also reflects her sense of duty and resilience. Throughout her reign, Queen Elizabeth has demonstrated unwavering commitment to her role as the monarch of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.
Despite facing numerous challenges and trials, she has remained steadfast and resolute, just like the timeless beauty of her wedding ring. It serves as a constant reminder of her duty to her country and her ability to overcome adversity with grace and strength.
A simple style she maintained her whole life
Despite being a symbol of royalty, Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring is remarkably simple and understated. This choice reflects her personal style and the modesty she has maintained throughout her life. The Queen has always been known for her elegance and grace, and her choice to wear a simple wedding ring reflects her preference for timeless and classic designs.
It is a reflection of her refined taste and showcases her ability to make a statement without extravagant adornments.
Conclusion
Queen Elizabeth’s wedding ring is a priceless jewel for the monarch. Its modest design reflects the spirit of post-war Britain when she married Prince Philip in 1947. While its monetary value has increased exponentially, its sentimental worth remains incalculable.
This simple gold band has adorned the Queen’s hand for over 70 years, a constant reminder of her steadfast marriage and sense of duty as monarch.
