(Culture)
This One Piece Of Jewelry Reese Witherspoon Always Wears Is Incredibly Rare — Here's Why
It's impossible to forget the stunning oval-shaped pink diamond ring Reese Witherspoon's character, Elle Woods, was given in the second installment of Legally Blonde nearly 15 years ago. And considering the fact that colored gemstones are currently on the rise (looking at you, Lady Gaga), her on-screen sparkler seems more relevant than ever. But, candy-colored diamonds aren't everyone's cup of tea, and with that, it's time to look toward Reese Witherspoon's engagement ring from husband Jim Toth — it's simple, elegant, and has a touch of vintage appeal. In short, it's perfect for the bride-to-be who prefers a timeless, classic pick.
Though Witherspoon's ring isn't technically new in the world of celebrity sparklers — she's been wearing it since 2010 — it's an exceptional bauble certainly worth revisiting. According to Kathryn Money, vice president of strategy and merchandising at Brilliant Earth, the actor's ring features an estimated 4-carat Ashoka-cut diamond in a delicate pavé diamond-accented setting in platinum or white gold.
"An Ashoka is a branded-diamond cut, which could be compared to an elongated cushion cut with more facets," Money shares with The Zoe Report over email. Depending on the quality and specific characteristics of the center diamond, she estimates Witherspoon's ring to be worth approximately $160,000-200,000, noting that the use of a rare Ashoka-cut diamond influences its cost.
An Ashoka diamond ranks as one of the most desired gemstones, reports William Goldberg, the jeweler who worked with Toth to design Witherspoon's ring. But it's not only one of the most coveted — it's also one of the rarest. The stone features 62 facets and rounded corners, and according to Goldberg, just less than 10 percent of diamonds mined yearly can be cut in such a way.
Witherspoon's ring may be rare, but it's right in line with current jewelry trends. "Fancy-shaped (or, non-round) diamonds and rings with delicate bands are rising in popularity," says Money, noting that celebrities like Karlie Kloss, Kim Kardashian, and Lea Michele have opted for similar styles that feature a cushion or emerald-cut diamond.
"Emerald and elongated cushion cut diamonds create a flattering look as their elongated shape lengthens the wearer’s finger," Money adds.
Witherspoon and Toth started quietly dating in Jan. 2010. And in late Dec. 2010, Toth asked for Witherspoon's hand in marriage with the stunning 4-carat Ashoka-cut diamond ring — a bauble he said was as beautiful and dazzling as the love of his life, according to Goldberg.
The two officially said "I do" on Mar. 26, 2011 in small, intimate celebration that was held at Witherspoon's ranch estate in Ojai, California. The actor walked down the aisle in a custom-designed, blush-hued gown by Monique Lhuillier that featured a Chantilly lace corset bodice and full tulle A-line skirt.
The ceremony boasted an impressive crop of celebrity attendees, including Matthew McConaughey, Renee Zellweger, Tobey Maguire, Isla Fisher, and Salma Hayek.
Inspired by Witherspoon's stunningly rare ring? Ahead, shop The Zoe Report's roundup of engagement rings that all subtly resemble the actor's.
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