In recent weeks, the Princess of Wales has been seen without her famous engagement ring.

Kate was given the iconic £390,000 ring – a family heirloom from Prince William’s mother, Princess Diana – when he proposed during a holiday in Kenya in 2010.

The couple, who first met as students at the University of St Andrews, married a year later and are now parents to George, 11, Charlotte, 9, and Louis, 6.

In a recent video shared on William and Kate’s joint Instagram account, marking her fifth year as President of the Scouts, sharp-eyed social media users noticed that she wasn’t wearing her engagement ring.

Jewelry expert Ella Citron-Thompkins has offered some insights into why Kate Middleton may have chosen to part with her engagement ring.

Speaking to Hello, Ella explained that the decision was “likely a thoughtful and symbolic one.”

“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 shared.

Ella also suggested a more personal reason for Kate’s choice.

“Instead of her engagement ring, Kate Middleton opted to wear her eternity ring stack,” she pointed out. “Following her recent treatment, it’s clear that much has shifted 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.”