Is Kate Middleton’s Ring a Romantic Throwback to Her University Days?

On Sunday—just as the Paris Olympics drew to a close—the Prince and Princess of Wales posted a video congratulating all the athletes from Great Britain. “From all of us watching at home, congratulations to team GB,” Kate Middleton said as William—sporting an uncharacteristic shadow of stubble—stood beside her. (The unofficial spokesperson of the games, Snoop Dogg, also made a cameo.)

The princess wore an outfit laced with sartorial symbolism. First was her Breton shirt—a clear nod to the host country and its rich fashion history. In the 19th century, the striped tops were worn by the French Navy as it made them easier to spot in the water. Fast forward a century later, the fashion world embraced the design. Chic Parisians wore them during their seaside holidays in Cannes and St. Tropez, and soon, they became a wardrobe staple. It was a sensible and smart choice by Kate: designer French fashions may have seemed overly extravagant to a country dealing with a cost of living crisis. Yet the simple Breton shirt simultaneously paid homage to France while also feeling appropriate to wear back in Britain.

Then, there was her ring. The internet took particular note of the piece of jewelry: while Kate frequently wears her sapphire and diamond engagement ring, in the video, she instead wore a subtle gold band lined with gemstones.

Immediately, speculation arose about its origins. Many believed it was a ring Prince William originally gave Kate Middleton while they were students at St. Andrew’s University. The ring was lined with pearls and garnets, the respective birthstones of William and Kate. For years before their engagement, she wore the ring on her middle finger.