The story behind the Queen's engagement ring is giving us all the feels
Like most married women, Queen Elizabeth goes nowhere without her engagement ring - and her signature white gloves, of course. Having worn it on her wedding finger since Prince Phillip got down on one knee in 1946 (yep, that's a whole 72 years ago), it's no wonder the three-carat diamond is a royal prized possession. However, there is one other thing that makes it extra special.
According to Town & Country, the ring is made from the tiara worn by Prince Phillip's mother, the late Princess Alice of Battenberg, on her wedding day. She passed the tiara down to her son with the intention that he build it into an engagement ring "fit for a Queen!" cue the awws
If that isn't fate, we don't know what is.
The tiara was given to Prince Philip's mother by distant relatives Tsar Nicholas II and Tsarina Alexandra of Russia, the last rulers of the Russian Empire. Talk about historic family heirlooms!
Getty ImagesPrince George meeting the head of lower school 2017
The adorable Prince George, looking slightly nervous for his first day at school, shakes hands with the head of lower school while Prince William holds his school bag. Our hearts are melting.
Getty ImagesPrince William taking Prince George to his first day at school 2017
Doting dad, Prince William takes Prince George to his first day at school at Thomas's Battersea. Kate was originally supposed to join the father-son duo but was unfortunately suffering from severe morning sickness.
Getty ImagesKate and Will at the London Marathon 2017
Kate couldn't help bursting out laughing as Will got sprayed by water during the London Marathon 2017. Luckily he found the funny side too. The couple were there to support runners and raise awareness for their mental health charity, Heads Together. They've started the charity with Prince Harry who was also in the crowd.
PA ImagesPrince George leaving church on Christmas Day
As the royals left the 2016 Christmas Day service at St Mark's Church in Englefield, Berkshire, little Prince George was busy enjoying his candy. So unbelievably cute.
Getty ImagesPrince George & Princess Charlotte's first royal engagement
Prince George and Princess Charlotte carried out their first official joint engagement in Victoria, Canada.
The little royals joined parents and children from military families at a party at Government House.
Getty ImagesPrincess Charlotte said her first word in public
OMG, we die. Princess Charlotte said her first word in public and performed her first walkabout. Who's a clever girl?
Making a beeline for a balloon arch, the 16-month-old delightedly hugged it before saying: ‘Pop!’
Getty ImagesPrincess Charlotte met Moose the dog
At the party there was a petting zoo, balloon animals and a puppet show were all laid on to keep the young guests entertained. It was here that Charlotte met Moose the dog.
Getty ImagesPrince George loved bubbles
I mean, who doesn't?! Cute!
PAFamily trip to Canada
The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with their children Prince George and Princess Charlotte arrive at Victoria International Airport, in Canada, on the first day of their official tour of Canada.
Matt Porteous/PAPrince George's 3rd birthday
On Kensington Royal's official Instagram account, this image of Prince George was shared along with the caption: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are delighted to share four new photographs of Prince George to mark his third birthday. They were taken by photographer Matt Porteous at their home in Norfolk in mid-July."
ADORABLE.
Matt Porteous/PAPrince George's 3rd birthday
Here is little George loving life with the family dog, english cocker spaniel Lupo.
Matt Porteous/PAPrince George's 3rd birthday
Photographer Matt Porteous said: "I really enjoyed the opportunity to take these photographs of Prince George. It was a very relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. I'm honoured that they have decided to share these images with the public to mark his third birthday."
Matt Porteous/PAPrince George's 3rd birthday
This photo of George was captioned: "The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge would like to thank everyone for all the lovely messages they have received for Prince George's 3rd birthday."
Getty ImagesA visit to The Royal International Air Tattoo in Fairford
The Duke of Cambridge and Catherine and Duchess of Cambridge take Prince George on a Australian Air Force Aircraft during a visit to The Royal International Air Tattoo in Fairford.
Rex FeaturesTrooping The Colour - The Queen's Birthday Parade
Catherine Duchess of Cambridge, Princess Charlotte, Prince George and Prince William watch the flypast from the balcony of Buckingaham Palace - and look how cute the kids are!
PA PhotosThe Queen's 90th birthday bash
The Queen was joined by the Duke of Edinburgh, the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge and Prince Harry at Windsor Castle to celebrate her 90th birthday. By the looks of things, her guests were shocked by a loud noise from one of the performances... but ol' Queeny? Cool as a cucumber.
HRH The Duchess of CambridgePrincess Charlotte turns 1
Say 'cheese' for mummy, Charlotte! The Duchess of Cambridge has released some cute pics of her little girl to mark her first birthday, and they are so cute...
HRH The Duchess of CambridgePrincess Charlotte turns 1
The Duchess took these pictures of her daughter in April at their home in Norfolk. So very cute.
Kensington Royal TwitterMeeting the President of the United States
What do you wear to the leader of the free world? Your PJs of course! Prince George met Barack Obama for the first time on the President's trip to the UK, and looked adorable in his dressing gown and slippers.
Kensington Royal TwitterPrince George showing off his rocking horse skills
Kensington Royal tweeting: "Prince George thanks @BarackObama for his rocking horse, given to him when he was born".
Annie Leibovitz / PA WireGranny's 90th birthday party
Well, isn't this just ADORABLE? Here's a glimpse at the Queen being Gan Gan. Photographed by Annie Leibovitz, we can see the Queen surrounded by her five great-grandchildren and her two youngest grandchildren. This is surely one for the mantle. And can we just say that Mia Tindall (holding the Queen's handbag) is just SO cute.
Granny's 90th birthday party
Prince George does a Yellow Pages send-up for a photograph taken for the Royal Mail as part of a commission of stamps to mark the Queen's 90th birthday.
PA PhotosPosing session in the snow
Both the Duke and Duchess are great skiers but haven't had the chance to enjoy their usual annual trip to the slopes since having children.
PA PhotosFirst family ski trip
We're dying over these super cute photos of Kate, Wills and the kids in the snow. Talk about #FamilyGoals. The royal family flew out to a secret location in the French Alps amid a media blackout to protect their privacy.
PA PhotosKate & Wills frolicking in the snow
Aww! It's not often we see Kate 'n' Wills looking all happy - but here they are, having a little snow fight. ADORABLE.
The Duchess of Cambridge / Kensington Royal TwitterPrince George's first day at nursery
The Kensington Palace's official Twitter shared this ADORABLE photo of Prince George on his first day of nursery. Look at his little backpack - what a cool dude!
Chris Jelf / PA Wire/Press Association Images2015's Christmas Card
The Royals released this adorable family pic to celebrate their first Christmas as a foursome. In a tweet, they wrote: "Merry Christmas from The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, Prince George and Princess Charlotte."
GettyPrincess Charlotte turns six months
Kensington Palace released these adorable snaps of Princess Charlotte to celebrate her turning six months. Just how adorable does she look?!
GettyPrincess Charlotte turns six months
The photos weren’t taken by Mario Testino but Kate Middleton herself at the family’s home at Anmer Hall, Norfolk. In a statement the palace said: "The Duke and Duchess continue to receive warm messages about Princess Charlotte from all around the world and they hope that everyone enjoys these lovely photos as much as they do."
Kensington Palace/Twitter/Mario TestinoPrince George's 2nd Birthday
Although this snap was actually taken at Princess Charlotte's christening, Kensington Palace released the photo to celebrate Prince George turning two on 22 July.
copyright Mario Testino /Art Partner/PACharlotte’s Christening
Princess Charlotte already seems to love the camera! This intimate shot with her mother Kate Middleton was taken at Sandringham, following her christening.
copyright Mario Testino /Art Partner/PACharlotte’s Christening
Prince George was all smiles as he was photographed with his father, Prince William. Just check out that cheeky grin!
Copyright: Mario Testino / Art PartnerCharlotte’s Christening
Mario Testino (who else!) took these gorgeous shots of the royal family at Princess Charlotte’s christening in Sandringham, Norfolk.
Copyright: Mario Testino / Art PartnerCharlotte’s Christening
The entire royal family was photographed in the Drawing Room of Sandringham House. In case you don’t know you they are: The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge with their children, Prince George, and Princess Charlotte, Queen Elizabeth II (seated right) and (standing, from left), Michael Middleton, Pippa Middleton, James Middleton, Carole Middleton, the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall and the Duke of Edinburgh.
Getty ImagesCharlotte's Christening
The Duchess of Cambridge looked radiant as she cradled Princess Charlotte in her arms, ahead of her christening at St Mary Magdalene in Sandringham.
Getty ImagesCharlotte's Christening
Prince George held his father's hand as he made his way into church for his sister's christening. He wore red shorts and an embroidered top, reminiscent of one his father wore over 30 years ago.
GettyBeaufort Polo Club
He was there to watch his dad and his uncle at the Polo, but it turns out gorgeous George just wanted to play with his mum. The adorable 23-month-old royal took to the hills of Beaufort Polo Club in his little Olivier cardigan and black Crocs, £26.99. Could George make Crocs cool? Let's see, shall we?
Rex FeaturesQueen's birthday parade
Aww, look at Prince George - he’s loving life with his family as he waves to the crowds on the balcony at Grandma’s house, Buckingham Palace.
First pictures of brother and sister
Bypassing professional photographers for this special moment, the Duchess of Cambridge took this gorgeous photo of Prince George cradling little sister Princess Charlotte.
PA PhotosFirst pictures of brother and sister
Don't they make the perfect pair? Princess Charlotte wore a woollen jumper, matching white tights and frill collar bodysuit, costing £14 from Polar O. Pyret. It's already sold out.
PA PhotosFirst pictures of brother and sister
Prince George looks completely smitten with his new sister.
PA PhotosFirst pictures of brother and sister
The christening of Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana will take place on Sunday 5 July at St Mary Magdalene Church in Sandringham
GettyPrincess Charlotte is born
The Duchess of Cambridge gave birth at 8.34am on 2 May 2015, and 10 hours later, she carried her newborn princess home.
GettyMeeting His Little Sister
How cute! Prince George waved to the crowds as he entered the Lindo Wing at St Mary's Hospital in West London. The little one was off to meet his baby sister for the first time.
Christmas portraits of Prince George released
The Duke and Duchess released three adorable portraits of Prince George in time for Christmas.
The cute snaps of the 16-month-old were taken by a member of the Duchess and Duke of Cambridge's staff in late November 2014, in a courtyard at their Kensington Palace home.
Christmas portraits of Prince George released
Little Prince George looks so delightful in a Polarn O. Pyret romper, worn under a Cath Kidston sweater vest with royal guards on the front - how very apt!
Christmas portraits of Prince George released
Showing off his cheeky smile, George looks just like dad Prince William.
Let's take a look at their family story so far...
PAPrince George's official photo to celebrate 1st birthday
To celebrate Prince George's first birthday on 22nd July, Kensington Palace has released the first official portrait of the little royal - and it is almost TOO adorable. Where has the last year gone? Click on for more cute pics of Kate, Wills and baby George.
Rex FeaturesJerudong Trophy polo match, Cirencester Polo Club
While dad William (and uncle Harry) got busy on the polo field in early June, the Duchess of Cambridge and little Prince George watched from the sidelines. Or, to be more precise, little George 'entertained' from the sidelines.
Rex FeaturesJerudong Trophy polo match, Cirencester Polo Club
Clearly not one to sit still for a moment, Prince George, dressed in powder pink dungarees and a cute white poloshirt, was far happier stomping around the grass as mum Kate attempted to keep hold of the little Prince.
Rex FeaturesJerudong Trophy polo match, Cirencester Polo Club
Wills takes a time out to shower some affection on his son, and give him a sip of water.
Getty ImagesJerudong Trophy polo match, Cirencester Polo Club
And he's off. Walking, kicking a ball... Prince George is growing up so fast!
Getty ImagesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
As the Duke and Duchess' royal tour of Oz comes to a close, we have to admit the real star of the show these past few weeks has been the adorable Prince George. Just look at those cheeks!
Rex FeaturesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
The young family were snapped as they boarded their flight back to London at Cranberra airport.
Getty ImagesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
But despite the world meticulously following Kate's wardrobe, it was Prince George's raspberry outfit that easily outshone his famous mum's stylish coat dress.
Rex FeaturesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
And here's more of the adorable tot being, well, adorable.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
Over the Easter weekend, the Cambridge clan continued to wow the crowds down under, most notably at Taronga Zoo in Sydney, where Prince George got up close and personal with a Bilby sharing his name. This boy has crowd power, to say the least.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
Kate holds on to Prince George as he wriggles around trying to get a closer look at the Bilby.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
Then it's Dad's turn to carry George, who looked super cute in royal blue shorts and a matching striped tee.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
Another day, another flight by the royal family. A picture of royal elegance.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
This is how little Prince George likes to greet his subjects - with a playful rub to the nose.
Getty ImagesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
William, Kate and Price George have just landed in Australia. The royal family exited their private plane in Sydney, with Kate wowing the waiting crowds in a stunning yellow Roksanda Ilincic dress, which she paired with nude shoes.
Getty ImagesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
The couple and Prince George spent several minutes chatting with the gathered dignitaries. We don't know about you, but we can't take our eyes off those cute baby cheeks.
Getty ImagesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
There are no words to describe this picture. OK, maybe one: adorable.
Getty ImagesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
As ever, Prince George is the star of the show. Check out that cute outfit.
REx FeaturesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
Earlier in the day, the royal family bid farewell to New Zealand as they board their private plane bound for Oz. George doesn't look best pleased to be leaving.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
Little Prince George continues to be the star of the show Down Under. Alongside his parents, he took part in his first 'playdate', organised by The Royal New Zealand Plunket Society at Government House in Wellington.
He sure seems to be mesmerised by that big blue bear.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
What a cutie. And how sweet are his little dungarees?
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
Posing done, Prince George gets to grips with the toys.
Rex FeaturesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
"My mummy, what pretty hair you have".
George takes a brief interlude to examine Catherine's hair. No split ends here.
Rex FeaturesAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
Catherine helps her son get a better view of the action.
Our hearts just melted.
PAAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
We sense a nap coming on...
Click on for more of the royals' Australia & New Zealand tour.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
Could Prince George be any cuter? No, we don't think so. The Duchess of Cambridge looked stunning for the first day of the royal tour of New Zealand in a Catherine Walker red dress and coat.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
As they stepped from the plane, Kate & William looked like the perfect royal couple.
PA PhotosAustralia & New Zealand Tour, 2014
...Kate even handled her Marilyn Monroe moment with aplomb.
Getty/Jason BellMother's Day Portrait, 2014
Released on Mother's Day and ahead of the family's Australia and New Zealand tour next week, the photographs (also featuring the family pet Lupo), were taken at Kensington Palace by Jason Bell, who took the official pictures of Prince George's christening in October 2013.
PA PhotosRoyal Christening, 2013
The happy couple looked thrilled as they had baby George christened at St. James’ Palace on 23 October.
PA PhotosPrince George is born, 2013
At just before 7.15pm on 22nd of July 2013, Kate and Wills finally gave the world a glimpse of their first born child, a son, who was born the day before at 4.24pm and weighed 8lbs 6oz.
PA PhotosPrince George is born, 2013
As Kate left the hospital cradling her newborn son, a doting Prince William looked on at his family as the royal pair thanked well-wishers who had camped out to catch a glimpse of their new arrival.
PA PhotosPrince George is born, 2013
As the couple approached the waiting crowds, Prince William took over the baby carrying duties with Kate passing the little newborn over to his father.
Rex FeaturesPrince George is born, 2013
Prince William looked completely besotted with baby George as he showed him off to the crowds.
