When Michael Douglas proposed to Catherine Zeta-Jones in 1999, the Fatal Attraction star presented her with the most breathtaking sparkler.
Over the course of their 24-year marriage, the Chicago star has rocked her gorgeous engagement ring on the red carpet and in interviews. But it is a different, nearly identical piece from her collection that has caught our eye of late.
© Getty"Catherine’s engagement ring is a gorgeous 10-carat-side-set marquise diamond ring set in platinum and designed by Fred Leighton," Nilesh Rakholia, jewellery expert and founder at Abelini, tells us, estimating the ring to be worth $342,000-$373,000 (£275,000-£300,000).
© Getty"The shape of the diamond dates back to the 18th century, with King Louis XV of France paying for jewellery to create a completely unique diamond in the shape of his mistress' lips. The cut has been developed and modified since, evolving into the cut it is known as today."
© Getty"While other classic cuts such as round or princess are often more popular choices for engagement rings, the marquise cut diamonds offer a bold and striking alternative that makes a true statement. This is certainly in keeping with Michael’s proposal back in 1999, on New Year's Eve at his luxurious home in Aspen."
The stone itself is also a symbolic one - after all, diamonds are a girl's best friend for a reason. "Diamonds are associated with strength, love and health - the perfect jewel for an engagement ring with the promise of spending the rest of your life together," Nilesh explains.
© Getty"The elongated shape of the marquise cut also allows for versatility for various setting options, making this diamond completely unique - a true symbol for a one-of-a-kind love."
© GettyThe ring has sat pride of place on Catherine's ring finger for over 20 years without going out of style, and yet it is hitting a major jewellery trend for 2024.
© GettyNilesh tells us: "A marquise's unique shape provides the perfect balance between a modern and vintage aesthetic. Vintage jewellery seems to be having its moment this year, with Pinterest searches for 'vintage wedding rings' seeing a 200% yearly change and with many stars adorning vintage pieces on the Oscars carpet last month."
© GettyDespite its magnificent beauty, it isn't the only incredible diamond in Catherine's collection. The Mask of Zorro star took to Instagram earlier this month where she looked chic in a black and white image wearing oversized sunnies and resting her chin on her hand, showing off an enormous diamond ring which could have easily been mistaken for her engagement ring.
© GettyJon Richard of Jon Richard Jewellery gives an insight into this spectacular piece. "An estimated 10-carat brilliant-cut round diamond with a gleaming pave diamond halo in platinum, valued at approximately $435,000 (£350,000), it epitomises the 2024 trend of striking jewellery," Jon explains.
© InstagramDISCOVER: Inside Catherine Zeta-Jones' 'really special' bond with lookalike daughter Carys Douglas
"Catherine Zeta-Jones' ring perfectly captures the essence of opulence and allure, setting the standard for show-stopping elegance."
