Now that it is the month of July, many style-conscious celebrities and royals will be wearing rubies to celebrate as they are the official July stone.
Diamonds Factory Ireland has gathered some of the most notable ruby pieces owned by members of the British royals, which have been referred to as the “Kings gem” throughout history.
One of these jewels is a ruby ring worn by Princess Kate, 41, who first wore the gem in 2017.
A spokesperson for Diamonds Factory Ireland said: “Worn by the Princess of Wales occasionally to match red outfits and accessories, this beautiful ruby ring was first seen on a visit to Poland.
“The ring itself features a diamond-encrusted band with a solitaire ruby stone.
“The elegance and simplicity of the ring differs significantly from the usual pieces of jewellery donned by the Royal Family.”
When Kate wore this ring in Poland, she paired it with a white dress from Alexander McQueen, which featured a v-neckline, bracelet-length sleeves, a knee-length skirt and peplum detailing at the waist.
At the time, it retailed for £798. Kate’s choice to wear a white dress with red accessories was particularly apt, as it represented the colours of the Polish flag where she was visiting.
Kate chose to wear her Gianvito Rossi pumps in Praline. In addition, the Princess carried a £1,300 Jenny Packham Casa clutch in red.
According to the spokesperson, Kate’s red ring is incredibly similar to Princess Margaret’s engagement ring from when she married Antony Armstrong-Jones.
They added: “This stunning engagement ring given to the late Princess Margaret by Antony Armstrong-Jones features three ruby centre stones surrounded by six smaller-sized diamonds.
“Antony Armstrong-Jones was said to be very involved in the design process of the ring.
“It’s said Antony drew significant inspiration from the late Princess’s middle name, Rose, wanting the ring to resemble the flower.
“Not only was the ring unique for featuring coloured stones, both for its time and within the Royal Family, but also due to the fact that it was custom-made, rather than bought or inherited.”
Margaret and Antony tied the knot on May 6, 1960 in Westminster Abbey in London.
The royal couple, who became the Earl and Countess of Snowdon, went on to have two children, Lady Sarah Chatto, 59, and David Armstrong-Jones, 61.
The marriage did not last, with Princess Margaret becoming the first member of the Royal Family to divorce since King Henry VIII.
