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The Princess of Wales, formerly known as Kate Middleton, possesses one of the most iconic engagement rings globally.
This exquisite 12-carat sapphire ring, once cherished by Princess Diana, is a near-constant accessory for Prince William’s wife. However, the absence of a wedding ring on William’s finger has sparked curiosity among royal watchers.
A former royal household employee has now shed light on this matter, as well as the intriguing reason behind the invisibility of King Charles’s wedding ring, despite him wearing it.
Why Prince William doesn’t wear his ring
Grant Harrold, who served as King Charles’s butler for seven years, was entrusted with various roles, including valet, housekeeper, house manager, and driver. He also tended to the needs of Prince Harry, Prince William, and Kate Middleton during their visits to Highgrove House.
In an interview with Showbiz Cheat Sheet, on behalf of Slots Temple, Harrold explained, “Prince William’s choice not to wear a wedding ring is purely personal; it isn’t dictated by royal tradition. His grandfather, Prince Philip, also opted out, while the king does wear one. It’s not uncommon for men of the upper class to forgo wedding rings, as it’s a matter of personal preference.”
Speaking on behalf of Slots Temple, Harrold told Showbiz Cheat Sheet that “Prince William’s decision to not wear a wedding ring is just down to personal choice, it’s not a royal tradition or rule. His grandfather, Prince Philip, didn’t wear one, but the king does — so it’s very much dependent on the man. It’s not unusual for men in the upper classes to decide against wedding rings. It’s down to personal preference.”
However, royal ladies or those who marry into the royal family are almost always seen wearing their rings.
King Charles wears his but most people don’t notice it
If you haven’t noticed King Charles’ wedding ring that’s because the band is slightly concealed by the larger signet ring he wears.
“People often say King Charles doesn’t wear a wedding ring either, but he does and people often just miss it,” Harrold shared. “He wears a simple, gold band underneath his signet ring on his little finger. The king has worn his signet ring for decades, after inheriting it from his uncle the Duke of Windsor. It’s a real family heirloom believed to be about 175 years old, and it’s engraved with the Prince of Wales crest.”
And while we know about Kate’s ring, many people aren’t aware that Queen Camilla’s ring is also a family heirloom. Clarence House revealed that it previously belonged to Charles’ grandmom, the Queen Mother. The piece is one of the larger engagement rings in the royal family, as well as one of the most valuable.
“I would imagine the approximate 5ct large emerald-cut center diamond flanked by six baguettes in an art deco pattern and platinum setting would be worth around $225,000,” said Grant Mobley, a gemologist and Director at Pluczenik. “It is very challenging to estimate a value for all these incredible pieces due to their diamond composition, the cut of the diamonds and their rich history. Diamonds not only maintain their value over time but more often than not increase in value and this is definitely the case for the pieces I have mentioned.”
Another gemologist, Deborah Papas, has told the Metro that she estimates Queen Camilla’s ring to be worth closer to $288,000.
