Inside Wallis Simpson’s $2M Emerald Ring: The Hidden Story Behind a Royal Symbol

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Royals (1 / 1) 15.06.2026 04:59 / Torben

The emerald that traveled from Baghdad to a Cartier setting and later fetched nearly $2 million hides a tale of secrecy, abdication and bold style. Read on to discover the full story!

Secret engagement and a crown relinquished

Edward and Wallis became secretly engaged on Oct. 27, 1936, a romance that culminated in his December BBC announcement that he would abdicate to marry her. Their relationship had been muted in the U.K. press, and the couple were later exiled to France as the Duke and Duchess of Windsor.

The ring and its striking centerpiece

Cartier crafted a gold ring centered on a 19.77-carat emerald surrounded by diamonds. Inscribed with "We are ours now 27 x 36," it marked an unusual royal choice: the first modern royal engagement ring to feature a colorful gemstone.