When Prince Andrew and Sarah Ferguson announced their engagement in 1986, it marked one of the most talked-about royal love stories of the decade. All eyes were instantly drawn to the bride-to-be's striking engagement ring, which perfectly captured her bold and confident personality.

The red gemstone is set against shimmering diamonds that make a striking impression. Drawing comparisons to Princess Diana's sapphire ring, Sarah's, 66, choice reflected a similarly classic yet distinctive royal taste.

Nearly forty years on, her ruby ring remains one of the most recognisable and iconic engagement pieces in royal history.

The cluster arrangement forms a delicate floral motif- a style that remains distinctive today. However, she only stopped wearing the precious jewel in 2003 - 11 years after the couple separated.

Jewellery expert Maxwell Stone from Steven Stone Jewellers explained: "Sarah's engagement ring features a striking 3-carat Burmese ruby surrounded by ten sparkling diamonds, arranged in a floral design known as a cluster setting.

The precious stones are set on a yellow gold band, creating a vivid and eye-catching contrast of colour."

Stone also noted that the choice of gemstone held special meaning for the couple: "In their engagement interview, Prince Andrew revealed that the ruby was chosen because both he and Sarah felt red was the perfect colour for her, while the 'extra bits on the outside' reflected their shared wish for something a little unconventional."

Crafted by Garrard, the prestigious British jeweller behind Princess Diana's sapphire and Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh's dazzling design, Sarah's ruby sparkler has since become one of the most memorable royal engagement rings of all time.

At the time of their engagement, the piece was said to have cost around £25,000. However, factoring in inflation and its royal provenance, experts now estimate its value to be approximately £70,000.

Stone added that the timeless design may have also inspired Princess Eugenie's engagement ring, which features a rare Padparadscha sapphire surrounded by diamonds in a similar cluster setting.

Despite her enduring popularity and influence, Sarah Ferguson's royal journey has evolved significantly since her marriage to Prince Andrew.

Following recent discussions between the former Duke and King Charles III, it was revealed that Prince Andrew will no longer use his Duke of York title or other honours, amid growing calls for his HRH status to also be formally removed.