Princess Catherine’s New Ring Stack Shines at Duchess of Kent’s Funeral
At the solemn Requiem Mass for Catherine, Duchess of Kent, held at Westminster Cathedral in September 2025, Princess Catherine, the Princess of Wales, debuted a striking new addition to her iconic ring stack. The five-ring ensemble, showcased on her left hand, captivated royal watchers not just for its sparkle but for the deeply personal story each band tells. From enduring love to resilience and new milestones, this evolving collection is a testament to Catherine and Prince William’s shared journey, unveiled poignantly during a moment of royal mourning.
A Dazzling Evolution of Style
Catherine has long been known for her thoughtful jewelry choices, often balancing modern elegance with royal tradition. Her iconic 12-carat sapphire engagement ring, once Princess Diana’s, has been a constant, though she’s occasionally swapped it for a multi-ring stack. After completing chemotherapy in 2024, a milestone she bravely shared publicly, Catherine returned to wearing the sapphire, weaving it into a growing collection of sentimental bands. By Wimbledon in July 2025, she sported three rings alongside it, but at the Duchess of Kent’s funeral, she revealed her most expansive stack yet: five exquisite rings, each layered with meaning.
The Rings and Their Stories
Each ring in Catherine’s stack is a chapter in her and William’s love story, blending personal milestones with royal heritage:
The Engagement Ring (2010): The centerpiece remains the 12-carat sapphire, encircled by 14 diamonds, gifted by William during his proposal in Kenya. Originally Diana’s, it symbolizes continuity, legacy, and enduring love, tying Catherine to her late mother-in-law’s iconic presence.
The Wedding Band (2011): Crafted from rare Welsh gold, a gift from Queen Elizabeth II, this simple band represents the foundation of William and Catherine’s marriage, formalized at Westminster Abbey. It’s a nod to royal tradition and their lifelong commitment.
The Eternity Band (2013): A white gold and diamond ring, believed to be William’s gift to mark the birth of Prince George, their first child. Its sparkle reflects the joy of their expanding family, a milestone in their shared journey.
The Sapphire and Diamond Band (2024): First seen in Catherine’s emotional video announcing the end of her chemotherapy, this ring likely signifies her resilience and recovery. Many speculate it was William’s heartfelt tribute to his wife’s strength through her cancer battle.
The Promise Ring (Early 2000s): A delicate band featuring pearl and garnet—Catherine and William’s birthstones—this ring dates back to their St Andrews university days. Worn throughout their courtship, it’s a sweet reminder of their early love and commitment.
The New Diamond Band (2025): The latest addition, a subtle yet stunning diamond band, debuted at the funeral. Likely a gift from William to mark their 14th wedding anniversary, celebrated in Scotland earlier in 2025, it adds a fresh layer of sparkle to their enduring partnership.
More Than Jewelry: A Wearable Love Story
Together, these rings are more than a fashion statement—they’re a “wearable love letter,” as one observer put it. Each band captures a moment in William and Catherine’s journey: from young love at St Andrews to marriage, parenthood, health challenges, and new beginnings. The stack, displayed at the Duchess of Kent’s funeral, resonated deeply amid the somber setting, reflecting Catherine’s grace and the couple’s unyielding bond. The newest diamond band, in particular, underscores their resilience, marking 14 years of marriage against the backdrop of recent trials.
A Poignant Debut
The funeral, attended by King Charles, Prince Andrew, and other royals, was a moment of collective mourning for a duchess known for her quiet devotion to music and charity. Catherine’s choice to debut her expanded ring stack here was both subtle and powerful, blending personal sentiment with public duty. As she stood alongside William, her hand adorned with these symbols of love and strength, it offered a quiet counterpoint to the grief—a reminder of hope and continuity.
A Legacy of Love
Catherine’s ring stack is more than royal bling; it’s a narrative of devotion, resilience, and heritage. Each ring, from Diana’s sapphire to the newest anniversary band, weaves together personal and royal stories, proving that the most precious gems are the memories they carry. As Catherine continues her public role, her jewelry choices will remain a window into her journey, captivating onlookers with their beauty and meaning.
What do you think of Catherine’s new ring stack? Which band’s story resonates most with you? Share your thoughts below as we continue to follow the Waleses’ evolving legacy.
