According to royal biographer Robert Jobson, the future king reportedly had mixed emotions after learning that Prince William used Princess Diana’s famous sapphire engagement ring to propose to Kate Middleton.
Why King Charles Was Reportedly Upset
In his book The Windsor Legacy: A Royal Dynasty of Secrets, Scandal, and Survival, Robert Jobson writes that then-Prince Charles was reportedly surprised and "a little irritated" by William's decision.
The reason was not the engagement itself. Instead, it was William's choice to present Kate Middleton with the same 12-carat Ceylon sapphire and diamond engagement ring that Charles had originally given to Princess Diana in 1981.
The engagement ring has become one of the most recognizable pieces of royal jewelry in history and carries deep emotional significance because of its connection to Princess Diana.
Prince William Kept the Proposal Secret
The biography also claims that Prince William carefully planned the proposal and kept the news private. Even Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Charles reportedly did not know about the engagement until after William had proposed.
After the proposal, William called Queen Elizabeth II on November 16, 2010, to officially share the happy news. Reports say the Queen was delighted to hear about the engagement.
This private approach reportedly surprised members of the royal family, as William and Kate had planned their future together without informing senior royals in advance.
A Royal Wedding That Marked a New Chapter
The engagement announcement led to the royal wedding on April 29, 2011, at Westminster Abbey. The ceremony became one of the biggest royal events in modern history and was watched by millions of people around the world.
According to Jobson, the wedding symbolized a fresh beginning for the monarchy and helped create a positive chapter following the sadness that surrounded Princess Diana's funeral years earlier.
Charles' Lighthearted Public Response
Although reports suggest King Charles privately had reservations about the engagement ring, his public reaction appeared warm and supportive.
When journalists asked about the engagement, Charles joked that Prince William and Kate Middleton had been "practicing long enough," a comment that reflected the couple's long relationship before becoming engaged.
The Meaning Behind Princess Diana’s Ring
Princess Diana's sapphire engagement ring remains one of the royal family's most treasured heirlooms. By giving the ring to Kate Middleton, Prince William has previously indicated that he wanted his late mother to be part of this important milestone in his life.
Over the years, the ring has become closely associated with the Princess of Wales and continues to attract worldwide attention whenever Kate wears it.
Final Thoughts
While royal biographies often reveal behind-the-scenes details, many claims are based on insider accounts rather than official palace confirmation. What remains certain is that Prince William and Kate Middleton's engagement became one of the most memorable moments in modern royal history, and Princess Diana's iconic sapphire ring continues to symbolize love, family, and royal tradition.
