This week marks the 20th anniversary of Donald and Melania Trump's marriage, and their love story continues to captivate. This public fascination is not only due to their return to the White House but also because of the dazzling symbols of their union: their engagement and wedding rings. Both crafted by the prestigious jeweler Graff, these pieces have sparked trends, controversies, and intrigue, becoming icons in their own right, much like the famous couple.
An engagement ring fit for a first lady
In 2004, Donald Trump, then a billionaire real estate mogul, proposed to Melania Knauss with an exquisite diamond engagement ring. The centerpiece was a 12-carat emerald-cut diamond set on a platinum band designed by Graff, a jeweler renowned for creating pieces for royalty and celebrities.
The ring's size and brilliance made it an instant trendsetter, with many brides aspiring to own similarly dazzling jewelry. For Melania, it symbolized ultimate luxury and love, reflecting the grandeur of her relationship with Donald.
However, the ring has also stirred controversy. Donald Trump claimed he negotiated a $1 million discount on the piece, proudly stating, "Only a fool would say no." This boast, typical of Trump's extravagant persona, added an air of mystery to the iconic ring.
Years later, Laurence Graff, founder of the jewelry house, refuted Trump's claim, asserting that no special discount had been given and that Trump paid the full price of $1.5 million. Despite the debate, the ring remains a dazzling masterpiece, forever associated with the Trump name.
The lavish wedding at Mar-a-Lago
Donald and Melania tied the knot on January 22, 2005, in a grand ceremony at the Mar-a-Lago estate in Palm Beach, Florida. The event reportedly cost $1 million, though Trump described it as practically a "discount wedding."
According to Trump, vendors eagerly offered their services for free to associate their brands with the high-profile couple. "There were five companies competing to provide each service for free," he boasted.
Melania's wedding ring, also designed by Graff, complemented her engagement ring perfectly. It featured an array of dazzling diamonds set in platinum, creating a timeless yet stunning design. Together, the rings told a story of ambition and glamour, perfectly embodying the couple's style.
The 10th anniversary ring
In 2015, to mark their 10th wedding anniversary, Donald surprised Melania with another breathtaking piece: a 25-carat diamond ring, also crafted by Graff. Valued at approximately $3 million, this ring surpassed the original engagement ring in size, reaffirming the couple's penchant for grand romantic gestures.
Unlike the first ring, this gift came without claims of discounts or negotiations. Trump paid the full price, making it one of the most luxurious anniversary gifts in recent history.
As for their 20th anniversary, the gift remains a mystery.
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