5 Famous Rings in History with Interesting Stories

Valentine’s Day is just a few days away. And for many, we’re thinking about how to make the day special for our significant other. Some are even thinking long and hard about rings. So why not take this time to learn about some of the most famous rings in history and the story behind them? In no particular order, these are the most interesting rings we’ve found throughout history, along with their stories.

5. Princess Diana’s Ring

While it’s not a story about love, the history behind Princess Diana’s ring is an interesting one. The reason is because of how, at the time, ‘gaudy’ and ‘big’ the ring seemed. Prince Charles’ choice of ring was a 12-carat oval blue sapphire ring surrounded by diamonds, which broke royal tradition. In fact, the press bashed the choice, yet with Diana’s determination and unique style, it worked perfectly, making it one of the most famous rings in history.

4. Queen Victoria’s Ring

Not only is this just an interesting ring, but it also showcases how much Prince Albert loved his fiancée. For his Queen, he designed a ring that was a coiled snake set with an emerald, her birthstone, for its head. While the idea sounds creepy and different, snakes represented eternity and everlasting love during the Victorian era, making it memorable.

3. Ring of Joan of Arc

While not a love story, the ring of Joan of Arc is full of historical and religious significance. Worn by the renowned French heroine, the ring was a symbol of courage and faith. The ring features three crosses as well as the letters IHS and MAR engraved in it, referring to Jesus and Mary. The ring was allegedly taken from her before she was burned at the stake in Rouen in 1431 at the age of 19.

2. Napoleon’s Ring to Josephine

The engagement ring given to Josephine by Napoleon is another one of the most famous rings in history, with an interesting story. The love story between the two is one of the most celebrated in history, and the engagement ring is a symbol of their deep affection and commitment to each other. The ring features two gemstones symbolizing their unity. While their relationship faced numerous challenges, they stayed devoted to one another until 13 years later, when the marriage ended due to various reasons.

1. Ring of Cleopatra

Not only is the Ring of Cleopatra one of the most legendary pieces from the last queen of Egypt, but the story behind the symbol also offers a tragic love story. The relationship was between Cleopatra and Mark Antony, a Roman general and politician. The romance was full of political intrigue and personal passion, which led to betrayal.