The Story Behind Princess Margaret’s Engagement Ring

A Royal Ring Reimagined for a New Generation

In the world of fine jewellery, few pieces carry the emotional weight and historical legacy of a royal engagement ring. Among the most storied is the exquisite ruby and diamond ring once worn by Princess Margaret, Countess of Snowdon—and now, lovingly worn by her granddaughter, Lady Margarita Armstrong-Jones.

A trained jewellery designer and creative in her own right, Lady Margarita has shared that she wears the ring on occasions where she believes her grandmother would have wanted to be present—such as the coronation of King Charles III, held in the same church where Margaret married Antony Armstrong-Jones in 1960.

The Design: Ruby in the Marguerite Style

This regal engagement ring features a central Burmese ruby, encircled by a halo of sparkling diamonds, crafted in the “Marguerite” style—named for its daisy-like setting.

Key Details:

• Centre Stone: Rich red ruby (approx. 4 carats)

• Setting: Diamond halo in a daisy motif

• Metal: Presumed platinum or white gold

• Symbolism: The ruby represents passion and protection—fitting for a bold royal like Princess Margaret. The daisy halo adds a touch of softness and timeless grace.

  
  

This design choice was far from conventional at the time. While many royal rings of the era focused on diamonds or sapphires, Margaret’s ruby ring stood out for its warmth, individuality, and personal meaning—making it a reflection of her vibrant and often rebellious personality.

More Than a Heirloom: A Personal Connection

The ring now belongs to Lady Margarita, gifted to her by her father, the Earl of Snowdon, on her 21st birthday. The choice of a ruby was also deeply personal—both Lady Margarita and Princess Margaret share the middle name “Rose,” and the gem’s rich red tone echoes that connection beautifully.

“The fact that it shares our name made it feel very magical,” Margarita shared in an interview—highlighting how gemstone symbolism and personal legacy intersect powerfully in heirloom pieces.

Why Ruby Rings Are Gaining Attention

At SICO International, we’ve seen growing demand for rare, meaningful rubies—particularly those with vivid natural colour, excellent clarity, and historical provenance.

Rubies, especially Burmese origin stones, are increasingly viewed not only as bold alternatives to traditional engagement rings but as high-value assets in luxury jewellery portfolios.

Investment Insight:

• Natural rubies over 3 carats are among the most coveted coloured stones in the market today.

• Ruby engagement rings—especially those with royal or celebrity provenance—can appreciate significantly over time, especially if untreated and well-preserved.

A Jewel That Tells a Story

Princess Margaret’s engagement ring is more than a piece of royal jewellery—it's a symbol of love, legacy, and individuality. As Lady Margarita continues to honour her grandmother’s memory through the ring, she also reminds us how gemstones can connect generations, embody emotion, and become wearable stories.

Looking to invest in a ruby with meaning? Explore SICO International’s curated collection of fine rubies and vintage-inspired halo rings—crafted to last, designed to tell your story.