Trilogy engagement rings have been steadily rising in desirability since Meghan Markle revealed her three-stone ring in 2017 – here, Fay Roach takes a deeper look at their appeal
01/08/2024 Jewellery, Jewellery & Watches - Interiors
Deriving its name from the Greek tri-(‘three times’) and –logia (‘story’), the trilogy engagement ring is characterised by three gemstones set side-by-side. Although typically comprising of three diamonds, trilogy rings come in a variety of gemstone type, colour, shape and size, offering flexibility to those who would like to create a bespoke ring.
Whilst the concept of a trilogy ring is believed to have originated from ancient Egypt, where it was thought to represent the three phases of the sun (rising, noon and setting), or the three stages of life (birth, life and death), it wasn’t until the Victorian era that trilogy rings came to the fore in Western culture. The three-stone design was seen as a way to showcase the beauty and rarity of diamonds, while also symbolising the past, present, and future of a relationship.
An 18ct gold three stone diamond ring, to be auctioned at Cheffins August Jewellery, Silver and Watches sale
There are many meanings behind a three stone engagement ring, it can be argued that a trilogy engagement ring holds much more symbolism than a solitaire, hence many couples choose to gift their partner a piece of three stone jewellery. Trilogy rings are also thought to have spiritual significance, with some believing that the three stones represent the Holy Trinity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Others believe that the three stones represent the mind, body, and spirit of the wearer. Alternately, the trilogy jewellery also symbolises "friendship, love and fidelity”, and can be given as a gift for anniversaries, birthdays, Christmas, Valentine’s, or simply as a spontaneous gift to show your affection.
During the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 30s, trilogy rings rose in popularity, with many featuring colourful gemstones alongside diamonds. The trend for bold colours has continued into the 21st century, for example, Jessica Simpson’s engagement ring stands out with its distinctive choice of a central ruby, beautifully flanked by two sparkling diamonds.
An 18ct gold Burmese ruby and diamond three stone ring, sold at Cheffins April 2024 Jewellery, Silver and Watches sale
Fay Roach, Associate at Cheffins, comments: “From traditional and vintage pieces to something more modern, trilogy jewellery can come in many forms but have the same meaning: ‘I love you’. Since Meghan Markle revealed her trilogy ring, we’ve seen a steady rise in demand for three stone rings, and they have been a big trend for engagement rings in 2024. Their timeless elegance and symbolism add to their romanticism, and both diamond and coloured stone versions consistently achieve high hammer prices at Cheffins.”