Princess Anne’s engagement rings both broke royal protocol

Princess Anne's engagement rings both broke royal protocol says expert, as Queen's independently minded only daughter didn't want ‘traditional’ style. 

• Princess Anne's engagement rings both broke royal protocol, owing to the stones and what they mean.
• Interestingly, both rings feature the same stone, which represents loyalty, hard work ethic, and honesty.
• In other royal news, Lady Louise is the Queen’s mini-me as shared passion revealed in old photo

Princess Anne's engagement rings are not only a break from royal tradition but they also represent wonderful qualities for which the Princess Royal is highly regarded. Her rings, which both feature sapphires, are ideal choices as only recently hard-working Princess Anne was hailed as ‘credit to the royal family’.

According to research on the Princess’ engagement rings by jewelry experts at Steven Stone, via Crisscut Magazine—Princess Anne’s engagement rings both broke royal tradition at the time.

Max Stone, jewelry expert, said, “It's interesting that Princess Anne received sapphire engagement rings rather than traditional diamond rings.

“Blue sapphires are often linked to people who are respectful, loyal, hardworking and honest, which only makes these rings even more special, and this perhaps could have meant something to Princess Anne.”

Princess Anne's first engagement ring was from Captain Mark Phillips and featured an eye-catching blue center stone with a clear diamond on either side. Her first wedding was on November 14, 1973. Their relationship produced their beloved children Zara Tindall and Peter Phillips and ended in 1992.

However, as one chapter ends another begins, and shortly after Princesss Anne was sporting her second engagement ring—which also features a stunning sapphire at its heart.

Max observed, “Both her rings are beautiful, however, neither of the center stones are overstated. Instead, Princess Anne opted for more subtle engagement rings with unique detailing and meaningful symbolism.”

Anne married her current husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, shortly after her divorce was finalized. Their nuptials took place on 12 December 1992, in a small ceremony in Crathie Kirk church, Scotland. Princess Anne and her husband now reside at the stunning Gatcombe Park in Gloucestershire.

Although her ring was rebellious at the time, the sapphire has been a popular choice with royals including Princess Diana, Princess Eugenie and Kate Middleton, who famously sports her late mother-in-law's ring.

Max added, “It's clear the Royal Family are huge fans of sapphires, a stone which is traditionally believed to attract abundance and blessings.

“Historically it has been used to protect against negative energies, as well as to calm the mind, strengthen intuition and invite spiritual clarity. Therefore it's no wonder the royal ladies love them.”