The Duchess of Sussex first wore a ‘pinky ring’ in 2020

Meghan Markle has been credited by royal fashion fans with sparking the modern diamond pinky ring trend, after a viral social media video reignited debate over who first popularised the statement jewellery look.

Royal blogger @thismightbeashia shared a video on Instagram asking followers who they believed was the original trendsetter behind diamond pinky rings, noting how the style has become increasingly visible among celebrities, influencers and everyday jewellery buyers in recent years.

In the video, the creator pointed to Meghan as the originator of the look, citing the moment she was first photographed wearing a striking diamond pinky ring during public appearances in 2020.

She explained: “I would definitely say that the person who started the diamond pinky ring trend would be none other than Her Royal Highness the Duchess of Sussex. She was first seen with her diamond pinky ring made by Lorraine Schwartz back in 2020.”

According to the blogger, the ring immediately drew attention because of its size and placement, with many initially mistaking it for an engagement-style diamond.

The piece in question was designed by Lorraine Schwartz, a New York-based jeweller favoured by high-profile clients across Hollywood and the fashion industry.

Meghan’s ring features a large emerald-cut diamond set in a minimalist band, a design that stood out at the time for its unapologetically bold placement on the smallest finger.

The blogger recalled that the image of Meghan wearing the ring caused “such an uproar” online, not only because of the unconventional styling but also because the duchess was seated prominently while Prince Harry was positioned beside her.

Meghan Markle praised for ‘starting trend’ of wearing diamond rings on little finger | PA

She concluded: “Meghan does have other diamond pinky rings and even a signet ring, but none have been quite as captivating or nearly as talked about as the Lorraine Schwartz pinky ring”.

The video also referenced the rise in popularity of diamond pinky rings among the general public, particularly through brands such as Starsgem.

Within jewellery-focused online communities, Starsgem has proved divisive, with some consumers praising its affordability while others question its sourcing and production practices.

Regardless, the blogger suggested that Meghan’s early adoption of the look helped normalise statement pinky rings beyond elite jewellery circles.

Meghan Markle pictured wearing a diamond ring on her pinky finger at last year’s Invictus Games | PA

Commenters were quick to echo the sentiment. One fan wrote: “As soon as you asked the question I knew the answer was HRH Meghan, The Duchess of Sussex.”

Another added: “Meghan Sussex for sure!! I invested in two after I saw her wear it years back.”

A third described her as a long-standing style leader, calling her a “fashion icon”.

Meghan’s influence on jewellery trends is well documented.

Meghan Markle is wearing her signet ring here on her pinky finger| PA

From her engagement ring redesign to her preference for symbolic pieces such as signet rings engraved with personal motifs, the duchess has consistently driven interest in understated yet meaningful designs.

Unlike traditional cocktail jewellery, the diamond pinky ring occupies a space between casual and formal styling, a balance that aligns closely with Meghan’s broader fashion identity.

While pinky rings have existed for centuries, fans argue that Meghan’s decision to wear a substantial diamond version in everyday settings helped reframe the piece as modern and aspirational rather than eccentric.