Home and Away actress Ada Nicodemou proudly displayed her stunning new engagement ring on Sunday, just one day after her co-star and now-fiancé James Stewart proposed on Valentine's Day. The 48-year-old star was not shy about flashing the impressive sparkler during a family barbecue celebration, where she wore a romantic red dress to match the occasion.
A Ring Worth Celebrating
The couple, who were joined by James' daughter Scout for their celebratory gathering, shared their happy news publicly over the weekend. Ada's dazzling new accessory immediately caught attention, with master jeweller Ernesto Buono providing exclusive insight to Daily Mail about its potential value and specifications.
Expert Analysis of the Sparkler
Buono, an Italian-born craftsman with over three decades of jewellery experience, estimated James might have spent as much as $150,000 on the engagement ring. Describing the style as a classic solitaire, he assessed the diamond to be between three and four carats, likely featuring either a brilliant or cushion cut.
The band appears to be yellow gold, approximately 18 carats in quality, Buono added, based on photographs the couple shared on Instagram. This valuation places the ring in the luxury category, reflecting the significance of their commitment.
The Proposal Moment
James Stewart, 50, captured the heartfelt proposal on video and shared the precious clip on social media. The footage shows him getting down on one knee in a public setting, delivering emotional vows to Ada, who joyfully accepted before leaning in for a passionate kiss.
Friends and family erupted in cheers in the background moments after Ada said yes, creating a memorable celebration of their love. The couple later posed for a beaming photograph where Ada prominently showcased her eye-catching diamond ring.
Celebrity Reactions and Well Wishes
Numerous celebrity friends flooded the comments section with congratulations and excitement. Kyly Clarke expressed emotional support, writing, Omg I'm crying! World's biggest congratulations. You beautiful couple. Liz Cantor simply added, THE BEST, capturing the widespread enthusiasm for their engagement.
From Co-Stars to Real-Life Romance
Ada and James' relationship developed unexpectedly after years of working together on Home and Away, where their characters Leah Patterson and Justin Morgan are married on-screen. The soap opera stars were first linked romantically when they were spotted sharing a kiss on Anzac Day 2024.
Ada confirmed their off-screen relationship in an interview with Stellar Magazine later that year, describing it as very recent and unexpected while expressing her happiness. She insisted their characters' on-screen marriage was not an early indicator of their real-life romance, emphasizing the organic nature of their connection.
The couple began dating after Ada's separation from ex-partner Adam Rigby just before Christmas last year, coinciding with James finalizing his divorce from Sarah Roberts in March 2024. Their journey from colleagues to engaged partners has captivated fans and colleagues alike, culminating in this Valentine's Day proposal surrounded by loved ones.
