The 1990s were a decade of glamour, where the opulence of Hollywood and the allure of diamonds merged to create some of the most extravagant engagement rings in history. This period saw celebrity engagements making headlines, not just for the stars involved but for the jaw-dropping price tags and intricate designs of the rings themselves. These iconic pieces became symbols of love and status, setting trends that still influence engagement ring designs today. Whether it was royalty, supermodels, or pop icons, the ‘90s delivered bling on a scale that was unprecedented.
Princess Diana’s Sapphire Engagement Ring
One of the most memorable engagement rings of the 1990s actually debuted in the late ‘80s, but it continued to inspire the following decade. Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring, which later passed on to Kate Middleton, became one of the most recognized pieces in the world. Although relatively modest in its original cost compared to some of the more opulent celebrity rings of the ‘90s, the ring features a 12-carat blue sapphire surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds set in white gold. Its legacy transcends time, not only because of its design but also due to the sentimental value and connection to British royalty. The ring remains a timeless example of elegance, and it was a trendsetter for non-diamond engagement rings.
Mariah Carey’s $500,000 Diamond Ring
In the late ‘90s, pop diva Mariah Carey received a 10-carat, emerald-cut diamond engagement ring from music executive Tommy Mottola. Valued at around $500,000 at the time, this stunning piece epitomized the over-the-top glamour associated with celebrity engagements. The massive diamond was set in platinum and surrounded by baguette-cut diamonds on both sides, creating a truly dazzling effect. Carey’s ring was a statement of both love and luxury, solidifying her status as one of the biggest stars of the era. The engagement might not have lasted, but the ring remains one of the most iconic pieces of ‘90s celebrity bling.
Donald Trump’s $1 Million Ring for Marla Maples
Donald Trump’s engagement to Marla Maples in 1991 was as extravagant as you might expect. He proposed with a whopping 7.5-carat emerald-cut diamond ring, rumored to have cost a staggering $1 million. Designed by Graff Diamonds, the ring was the epitome of luxury, featuring a stunning diamond with perfect clarity and a platinum band. The ring made headlines across the globe, partly due to Trump’s celebrity status and partly because of the audacious price tag. Although their marriage didn’t last, the ring is remembered as one of the most expensive celebrity engagement rings of the ‘90s.
Victoria Beckham’s Emerald-Cut Stunner
When soccer legend David Beckham proposed to Victoria Adams (then known as Posh Spice) in 1998, he did so with a stunning marquise-cut diamond ring. The ring, which was estimated to cost around $85,000, featured a 3-carat diamond set in platinum, making it one of the more understated yet elegant celebrity engagement rings of the decade. Since then, Victoria Beckham has become known for her extensive collection of engagement rings, but this first one holds a special place in pop culture history as a symbol of the glamorous ’90s era.
Whitney Houston’s Heart-Shaped Diamond Ring
When Bobby Brown proposed to Whitney Houston in 1992, he did so with a ring that perfectly matched her diva status. The engagement ring featured a stunning 10-carat, heart-shaped diamond that was valued at over $250,000. The unique heart shape made it one of the most distinctive celebrity rings of the time, reflecting Whitney’s larger-than-life personality and her romantic relationship with Brown. The ring became almost as famous as the couple, symbolizing their high-profile and often turbulent relationship throughout the ‘90s.
Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones’ Vintage Ring
Though Michael Douglas and Catherine Zeta-Jones got engaged in 1999, the engagement ring he gave her was a timeless, vintage-inspired piece that stood out among the glitzy rings of the ‘90s. Featuring a 10-carat, marquise-cut diamond flanked by 28 smaller stones, the ring was valued at around $1 million. It was a classic design that paid homage to old Hollywood glamour, and it remains one of the most stunning engagement rings of the era. The couple’s enduring marriage has only added to the ring’s legacy as one of the most memorable engagement pieces of the decade.
Conclusion
The 1990s were a decade defined by celebrity excess, and nothing showcased this more than the era’s engagement rings. From Princess Diana’s elegant sapphire to Donald Trump’s million-dollar masterpiece for Marla Maples, these rings were more than just symbols of love; they were statements of wealth, style, and status. Today, these iconic pieces continue to inspire engagement ring designs, proving that while trends may change, the allure of dazzling diamonds never fades.