Cristiano Ronaldo proposed to long-time partner Georgina Rodriguez with one of the most spectacular engagement rings ever seen – a dazzling diamond estimated to weigh up to 50 carats and worth around $3 million (R52.5 million).
Rodriguez, 31, shared the news of the engagement on Monday via social media with a photo that prominently featured the ring, sparking instant headlines and global fascination.
The massive oval-cut diamond stretches to her knuckle and, according to expert appraisers speaking to Forbes, is one of the rarest and most valuable stones in the world.
A Rare Gem
Jewelry specialist Kristian Spofforth of Heritage Auctions estimated the diamond at approximately 50 carats, with a D colour grade – the highest on the diamond color scale – and a likely clarity of VVS1 or better, meaning the stone is nearly flawless.
Another expert, gemologist Deborah Villepigue, suggested the centre stone could be even larger, between 55 and 60 carats.
Though the metal setting is still unconfirmed, experts noted the elegant and minimal design appears crafted to showcase the diamond’s natural brilliance.
No official word has been given on the designer, though Cartier has been rumoured to be behind the piece.
Outshining Celebrity Peers
Rodriguez’s ring now ranks among the most iconic engagement rings in celebrity history, eclipsing some of the most talked-about diamonds worn by stars like Mariah Carey, Kim Kardashian, and Lauren Sánchez.
It even rivals historic sparklers like Elizabeth Taylor’s 33-carat Asscher-cut diamond and her famed 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond from Richard Burton.
Only a handful of celebrities have worn larger stones – among them, Keyshia Ka’oir, who received a 60-carat oval diamond from rapper Gucci Mane in 2019.
Love Story in the Spotlight
Ronaldo and Rodriguez’s relationship began publicly in 2017 and has been closely followed ever since.
The couple share five children, including three from Ronaldo’s previous relationships.
Despite years of speculation surrounding their marital status, the proposal comes after Ronaldo recently referred to Rodriguez as his “wife” in an interview.
However, his publicist later told People magazine there was “no confirmation” of a marriage at this time.
Their relationship has also been chronicled in Rodriguez’s Netflix reality series I Am Georgina, which ran for three seasons and gave fans a glimpse into their lavish lifestyle.
A Billionaire Athlete’s Gesture of Love
Cristiano Ronaldo, now 40, continues to break records off the pitch.
Ranked by Forbes as the world’s highest-paid athlete in 2025, Ronaldo earned an estimated $275 million in the past year alone, with a portion of his wealth stemming from lifetime endorsement deals, including with Nike, and his CR7-branded business ventures.
He became the first active team-sport athlete to surpass $1 billion in career earnings in 2020.
The $3 million ring, while extravagant, is comparatively small for a man whose career and brand have redefined modern celebrity and athletic success.
How safe would you feel wearing such an expensive piece of jewellery?
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