In recent weeks, the Princess of Wales has been seen without her famed engagement ring.
When Prince William proposed to Kate on a trip to Kenya in 2010, he presented her with the famed £390,000 ring, a family heirloom from his mother, Princess Diana.
The pair met as students at the University of St Andrews, married a year later, and have three children: George, 11, Charlotte, 9, and Louis, 6.
In a recent video posted to William and Kate’s joint Instagram account, she was enjoying her fifth year as Scout President, and observant social media fans observed that she was not wearing her engagement ring.
Ella Citron-Thompkins, a jewellery expert, explained why she ditched the ring in an interview with Hello, stating that it was likely a deliberate and symbolic act.
“The video focuses on the importance of nature, mental well-being, and emotional grounding; her ring is a highly recognisable piece, so she may strategically want audiences to connect with the messaging rather than herself,” she explained.
The expert also mentioned a more personal potential motive for Kate’s decision.
“Instead of her engagement ring, Kate Middleton opted to wear her eternity ring stack,” she pointed out. “After her recent treatment, it’s evident that a lot has changed in her life.
“Health challenges often bring a deeper appreciation for comfort and symbolism, especially in the pieces we choose to wear, so it’s understandable and admirable as to why she may opt for a more ‘low key’ approach to casual appearances.”
Kate was admitted to the London Clinic in January 2024 for extensive abdominal surgery, where she stayed for two weeks before returning home to recover.
Two months later, she revealed she had can:cer.
She declared remission earlier this year after receiving therapy at The Royal Marsden Hospital.
In an Instagram post, she wrote: “I wanted to take this opportunity to thank The Royal Marsden for looking after me so well over the last year.” My heartfelt gratitude goes to everyone who has silently supported William and me as we managed everything.
“We couldn’t have asked for more. The care and advice we have received throughout my time as a patient has been exceptional.
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“In my new role as Joint Patron of The Royal Marsden, my hope is, that by supporting groundbreaking research and clinical excellence, as well as promoting patient and family wellbeing, we might save many more lives, and transform the experience of all those impacted by cancer.
“It is a relief to now be in remission and I remain focussed on recovery. As anyone who has experienced a cancer diagnosis will know, it takes time to adjust to a new normal.
