Royal expert reveals why Kate Middleton has decided to ditch her engagement ring

In recent weeks, the Princess of Wales has been spotted without her iconic engagement ring.

Kate was given the iconic £390,000 ring - a family heirloom from Prince William's mother Princess Diana - when he popped the question during a holiday to Kenya in 2010.

The couple, who met when they were both students at the University of St Andrews, wed a year later and have since become parents to George, 11, Charlotte, 9, and Louis, 6.

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

Now, jewellery expert Ella Citron-Thompkins has shared some of the reasons why she may have chosen to ditch the ring.

Speaking to Hello, Ella said 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 explained.

The expert also pointed out a more personal potential reason behind Kate's decision.

"Instead of her engagement ring, Kate Middleton opted to wear her eternity ring stack," she noted. "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."

In January 2024, Kate was admitted to the London Clinic for major abdominal surgery, spending two weeks in hospital before recuperating at home.

Two months later, she revealed that she had cancer.

Following treatment at The Royal Marsden Hospital, she announced that she was in remission earlier this year.

In an Instagram post, she wrote: "I wanted to take the opportunity to say thank you to The Royal Marsden for looking after me so well during the past year. My heartfelt thanks goes to all those who have quietly walked alongside William and me as we have navigated everything.

"We couldn’t have asked for more. The care and advice we have received throughout my time as a patient has been exceptional.

"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.

"I am however looking forward to a fulfilling year ahead. There is much to look forward to. Thank you to everyone for your continued support. C."