Here’s Why You Never See Prince William, a Married Man of 13 Years, Wearing a Wedding Ring

Despite marrying Catherine Middleton in 2011, Prince William has consistently opted not to wear a wedding ring, leaving many curious. However, a palace aide provided an explanation for his choice.

Before their grand wedding in 2011, a royal spokeswoman revealed that there was only going to be one ring at the ceremony as per the couple’s wishes. The wedding band was Catherine’s, crafted from Welsh gold, a design the couple played a role in creating.

The piece of Welsh gold used to make the glamorous ring was a gift from the late Queen Elizabeth II to Prince William shortly after his engagement to Catherine was announced. The Duke of Cambridge would present the ring in the traditional manner during their wedding ceremony.

When it was announced that only Catherine’s ring would be at the ceremony, many people were curious about why William wasn’t going to wear one.

A St. James Palace aide explained his reason at the time. They noted, “It was something the couple discussed but Prince William isn’t one for jewelry – he doesn’t even wear a signet ring – and decided he didn’t want to. It really is just down to personal preference.”

Another source shared that it is quite common for men in William’s social class to forgo a traditional wedding band. When they do wear one, it is often alongside a family signet ring; however, William didn’t possess a signet ring.

Penny Junor, author of “The Duchess: Camilla Parker Bowles and the Love Affair that Rocked the Crown,” also divulged, “He doesn’t like jewelry, and the Palace issued a statement before their wedding saying so.”

Furthermore, around two billion people watched William and his wife’s wedding, so his marital status is well-known. As Robert Jobson, royal editor of London’s “Evening Standard,” explained, it’s “his prerogative” not to wear a wedding ring.

Diane Clehane, author of “Imagining Diana,” noted that William’s decision to follow a traditional approach of not wearing a wedding band rather than a modern one could actually highlight his modernity.

She suggested that the couple’s choices, like Princess Catherine omitting “obey” from her vows and William choosing not to wear a ring, reflect their confidence in their relationship. It also highlighted their desire to chart their own path, much like many millennial couples.

Unlike his brother, Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan Markle exchanged rings as a symbol of their unending love and faithfulness. Their wedding bands are meant to remind them of the vows they exchanged on their special day and the covenant of their marriage.

Aside from the vows and wedding band, Catherine and William’s wedding didn’t have more changes. After they exchanged vows at Westminster Abbey, they appeared on the balcony of Buckingham Palace and shared kisses as the gathered crowd watched on.