Princess Margaret's grandson Samuel Chatto said he "couldn't be happier" as he announced his engagement to his long-term girlfriend, Eleanor Ekserdjian.
The 29-year-old son of Lady Sarah Chatto and Daniel Chatto revealed he had popped the question with a handmade engagement ring, proudly showing off the sentimental porcelain design in photos shared to Instagram.
Alongside black-and-white photos, including a close-up of the unique band, Sam penned: "I’m really delighted to say that Ellie and I are engaged. And we couldn't be happier."
Jessica Flinn-Allen exclusively told HELLO! that porcelain is a "very rare" choice for an engagement ring, as she delved into the symbolic meaning.
'Unique' engagement ring
"Sam's choice to make his fiancée's non-traditional engagement ring himself shows a level of commitment and creativity that is really special," began the jewellery designer, who has over 15 years of experience in designing and creating fine jewellery.
© Huseyin Ovayolu"Porcelain has a history spanning thousands of years, originating in China and becoming a highly sought-after material across the globe, but its use in jewellery, and more specifically engagement rings, is very rare. Not only is the material a rarity in jewellery, but the style and texture is incredibly unique and could hold special meaning to the newly-engaged couple, adding that extra special touch.
"The use of porcelain here symbolises resilience and long-lasting love, mimicking the properties of the material itself," she said.
In the absence of diamonds or other precious stones, Jessica estimated the ring was worth between £500 and £1,000.
Private relationship
© Sam ChattoThe royal and the abstract painter met while studying History of Art at the University of Edinburgh. They went public with their relationship in 2022 at Tatler’s Little Black Book Party, and Eleanor was introduced into royal life in 2024, when she joined Samuel for the royal family's annual Christmas Day service in 2024.
Normally reserved for married partners only, the St Mary Magdalene Church appearance was an indication of the seriousness of their romance, with many royal fans speculating that an engagement could be on the cards. More recently, the couple made a rare joint appearance at Peter and Harriet Phillips' royal wedding in Kemble in June 2026.
© Getty ImagesSam and Eleanor are set to marry next spring. If Eleanor's engagement ring is any indication, the couple's wedding plans could prove to be more unconventional than other royal couples.
