Kate Middleton’s decision to forgo her stunning and valuable engagement ring during a recent public outing has sparked chatter among Royal enthusiasts.
However, a jewellery expert has disclosed that there are not only numerous practical reasons why the Princess of Wales might have left her iconic engagement ring – originally Princess Diana’s – at home, but also more personal ones.
Kate is recognised for flashing the spectacular piece at public events, except during sports activities or hospital visits. However, it was conspicuously missing during her first official engagement following the conclusion of her chemotherapy treatment.
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Kate made an unexpected appearance alongside Prince William in Southport, meeting with the families of victims and emergency responders involved in the dreadful Southport stabbings, including three young girls who were tragically killed at a Taylor Swift themed party over the summer holidays.
(Image: Getty Images)
Fans who were thrilled to see her accompanying William once again also noticed she was sporting several ‘eternity bands’ and her wedding ring, but her renowned sapphire engagement ring was absent, reports the Mirror.
Jewellery expert Ella Citron-Thompkins, from Diamonds Factory, told the Mirror: “Recently, The Prince and Princess of Wales visited the families of the Southport victims. Eagle-eyed fans noticed that there was something a bit different about the jewellery Kate was wearing on her hand, specifically that she had opted for several ‘eternity bands’, alongside her wedding ring, as opposed to her 12-carat diamond and sapphire engagement ring.”
“The Princess of Wales may have chosen to wear the eternity brands to represent her relationship with Prince William surpassing several major milestones – like anniversaries or births – or as a show of love and commitment. With the rumours that have surrounded the couple earlier in the year, this can be seen as a subtle nod to the public by Kate and Will that they are in love more than ever. “
(Image: Iain Watts/Liverpool Echo)
The expert further commented: “It’s not the first occasion that the renowned Princess Diana ring has been absent during an event, and it could simply be that it is undergoing cleaning or resizing, and Princess Kate has utilised the eternity rings in its stead to quell any rumours.
“It could also be a matter of comfort, or practicality. The Princess’s engagement ring is quite extraordinary and very precious, so it may be that she prefers to keep it safe at home for most engagements.”
Royal fashion buffs have been all over Kate’s latest bling choices. This year, the Duchess has been spotted more often rocking an ‘eternity band’ or her wedding ring, and at times, she’s even gone for the minimalist look with no rings at all.
And Ella reckons the fresh pick of sparklers could be a “perfect” tribute to a ring Wills gave his missus back in their early days.
(Image: Getty Images)
“The eternity rings look to be a more subtle and understated band compared to her sizable engagement ring,” Ella dished out. “The style of the rings seems to be gold composed with small gemstones which are either garnets or sapphires. This looks to resemble the promise ring that Prince William gave Kate at university when they first started dating; this was a rose-gold Victorian band embellished with pearls and garnets: representing both their birthstones. If the stones are sapphires, then it is the perfect homage to the ring it replaced.”
Ella went on: “Kate Middleton’s usual jewellery style tends to be very influenced and dependent on what outfit she has chosen to wear. Because of this, she has been seen to style both gold and silver jewellery. The designs of her rings and earrings are traditionally fitting for the modern world of jewellery trends, with intricate gold and silver designs that emboss gemstones to give them a subtle statement. Amongst her favourites are pearls which are fitting for them being Prince William’s birthstone.”
“When it comes to bracelets, her affinity for intricate gold and silver designs also takes precedence. Only seen on her right hand, she opts for designs that feature textured bands of chains or gemstones. This is also mirrored in her necklace choices, which tend to feature a small chain, donned with a statement gemstone pendant.
“Her choice for gemstones sets the bar for current trends as we are seeing more and more commercial jewellery opt for more traditional stones like emeralds and sapphires, similar to the Princess’ style of garnets and pearls.”
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