A History of Diamond Rings in Hollywood: From Classic to Contemporary

Sushanta Das
4 min readAug 8, 2024

--

Diamonds have long been synonymous with luxury, elegance, and timeless beauty. In Hollywood, these precious gems have played a pivotal role in crafting the image of glamour and sophistication. From classic designs that defined the golden age of cinema to contemporary pieces that set new trends, diamond rings in Hollywood have a storied history worth exploring.

The Golden Age of Hollywood: Classic Glamour

The Golden Age of Hollywood, spanning from the 1920s to the 1960s, was a period marked by opulence and style. During this era, diamond rings became a symbol of not only love but also status and prestige. Iconic actresses such as Marilyn Monroe, Elizabeth Taylor, and Grace Kelly were often seen adorned with stunning diamond rings, setting the standard for elegance and sophistication.

Marilyn Monroe: The Epitome of Glamour

One cannot discuss diamonds in Hollywood without mentioning Marilyn Monroe. Her rendition of “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” in the 1953 film “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes” cemented her association with these sparkling gems. Off-screen, Monroe’s personal collection included several notable diamond rings, including a 24-carat pear-shaped diamond given to her by baseball legend Joe DiMaggio. This ring epitomized the lavishness of the era and remains a benchmark for classic Hollywood glamour.

Elizabeth Taylor: A Passion for Diamonds

Elizabeth Taylor’s love affair with diamonds is legendary. Known for her exquisite taste and extensive jewelry collection, Taylor’s engagement rings were some of the most talked-about pieces in Hollywood history. The Krupp Diamond, a 33.19-carat Asscher-cut diamond, and the Taylor-Burton Diamond, a 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond, were among her most famous rings. These pieces not only showcased her personal style but also influenced jewelry trends for decades.

Grace Kelly: Royal Elegance

Grace Kelly’s transition from Hollywood star to Princess of Monaco was marked by her stunning engagement ring from Prince Rainier III. The 10.47-carat emerald-cut diamond ring, flanked by two baguette diamonds, was a Cartier masterpiece that symbolized her sophisticated and timeless style. This ring remains one of the most iconic pieces of jewelry in Hollywood history, representing the intersection of cinematic glamour and royal elegance.

The 1970s to 1990s: Bold and Beautiful

As Hollywood evolved, so did the styles of diamond rings. The 1970s to the 1990s saw a shift towards bold and unique designs, reflecting the changing tastes and cultural influences of the times.

Princess Diana: A Ring for the Ages

Although not a Hollywood star, Princess Diana’s engagement ring had a significant impact on the world of diamond rings. Her 12-carat oval blue sapphire ring, surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds, broke away from traditional all-diamond engagement rings and became a symbol of elegance and individuality. This ring influenced countless designs and remains a beloved piece, now worn by Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge.

Madonna: The Queen of Pop’s Unique Style

In the 1980s and 1990s, pop culture icons like Madonna brought a new level of individuality and boldness to the world of diamond rings. Madonna’s engagement ring from Sean Penn, featuring a unique design with multiple diamonds, reflected her eclectic style and set trends for more unconventional and personalized jewelry.

The 21st Century: Contemporary Elegance

The new millennium brought with it a blend of classic elegance and contemporary innovation. Modern Hollywood stars continue to set trends with their engagement rings, often choosing designs that reflect both timeless beauty and current fashion.

Beyoncé: A Modern Icon

Beyoncé’s engagement ring from Jay-Z is a stunning example of contemporary elegance. The 18-carat emerald-cut diamond, designed by Lorraine Schwartz, features a split shank setting and exemplifies modern luxury. Beyoncé’s ring, valued at over $5 million, showcases the blend of classic diamond cuts with innovative settings that define contemporary Hollywood glamour.

Blake Lively: Vintage-Inspired Beauty

Blake Lively’s engagement ring from Ryan Reynolds is a beautiful example of how vintage-inspired designs continue to influence modern jewelry. The oval-cut diamond, set in a rose gold band with delicate pave diamonds, combines the charm of vintage aesthetics with a contemporary twist. This ring has inspired many similar designs, proving that the allure of vintage styles remains strong.

Meghan Markle: A Ring with Personal Touch

Meghan Markle’s engagement ring from Prince Harry features a trio of diamonds, with the center stone sourced from Botswana and two side stones from Princess Diana’s collection. This ring not only carries deep personal significance but also reflects a modern approach to incorporating sentimental elements into design. Markle’s ring represents the blend of tradition and modernity that characterizes 21st-century Hollywood style.

Conclusion

From the classic glamour of the Golden Age to the bold designs of the late 20th century and the contemporary elegance of today’s stars, diamond rings in Hollywood have a rich and varied history. These iconic pieces not only symbolize love and commitment but also reflect the evolving tastes and styles of different eras. Additionally, the trend of old wedding rings redesigned has become increasingly popular, allowing these timeless pieces to be modernized while retaining their sentimental value. As Hollywood continues to set trends in fashion and jewelry, the allure of diamond rings remains as strong as ever, capturing the imagination of fans and jewelry enthusiasts around the world.

--

--