Kate Middleton’s engagement ring isn’t just one of the most recognizable pieces of jewelry ever, but it also stands as the most expensive engagement ring within the royal family. It was originally valued at £28,000 or roughly $47,000 when it was owned by Princess Diana, but the 12-carat ring’s value has since skyrocketed to £300,000 or around $500,000. Half a million dollars for a piece of jewelry? It’s no wonder that Kate leaves it at home from time to time!
The Princess of Wales is occasionally spotted without the ring, like when she went to the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, or when she visited the Evelina Children’s Hospital in 2020. Per CrissCut, the magazine run by jewelers Steven Stone, Kate’s decision to go without is likely due to her wanting to protect it from damage or loss, and also for her own safety — such as when she participates in physical activity and there is a risk of the ring getting caught.
And then there’s the controversial Mother’s Day 2024 photo, where the absence of the ring caused quite a stir among fans. Although the palace remained tight-lipped when asked about the lack of ring, there was speculation that it was because Kate was still on the mend from abdominal surgery. It has since been revealed that the photo was digitally manipulated.
