Even royals can appreciate a little extra sparkle.
It’s hard to imagine a more iconic engagement ring than the late Princess Diana’s 12-carat sapphire and diamond design. And when that exact heirloom — accompanied by a band of the rarest Welsh gold — has been on your ring finger for the better part of 15 years, it’s understandable that it could start to feel like part of a uniform.
Recently, Kate Middleton has been sporting some new, shiny jewelry. And no, we’re not referring to the Lover’s Knot tiara she wore at last week’s state dinner.
The Princess of Wales, 43, recently added a diamond-and-sapphire eternity band to her wedding finger, as seen last week at the funeral for Katherine, Duchess of Kent.
Made by royal jewelers G. Collins & Sons, as confirmed by Town & Country, this ring was first spotted over the summer and is the newest addition to Middleton’s sparkling stack.
Two other bands — an Annoushka diamond eternity ring believed to have been a gift from Prince William after the birth of Prince George, and a simple platinum band that appears to also feature small diamonds — round out the quintet.
When you’re photographed as much as Middleton, you know that nothing gets past the eagle-eyed onlookers, especially when a zoom lens is involved. So stacking up is sure to spark intrigue.
The princess’ sapphire-and-diamond eternity band is thought to be a commemorative token marking the completion of her chemotherapy treatment last year.
Interestingly, the royal’s stack feature styles in both silver and gold hues — which is unusual, but very modern.
According to the Daily Mail, the princess’ five-ring stack is “a quiet evolution in royal jewelry, favoring modern, personal symbolism over formality,” which is very much aligned with Middleton’s style throughout the years.
Even with all of the crown jewels at her disposal, there’s something special about Middleton’s ongoing sentimentality — and practicality — when it comes to jewelry.
When forgoing Diana’s dazzling sapphire ring, she may be strategically directing attention away from herself and towards the messages of the events. Similarly, she might honor the late Queen with a pair of pearls or keep George, Charlotte, and Louis close with an initial necklace.
The princess has the power to speak volumes without saying a word; all she has to do is accessorize.