Kate Middleton Forgoes Iconic Engagement Ring Amid COVID-19 Crisis

Kate Middleton recently appeared in photos without her sapphire and diamond engagement ring — and it’s believed that’s due to the coronavirus crisis.

Kensington Palace recently released photos of the Duchess of Cambridge and her husband, Prince William, spending time at home, the New York Post reports. She appears without the ring, which belonged to Princess Diana.

The portraits were posted to Instagram with the caption: “Self-isolation and social distancing can pose huge challenges to our mental health — in recent weeks The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge have been in regular contact with organizations and patronages to understand the issues they are facing during this difficult time.”

The Posts reports that forgoing the ring may be a way to cut down on germs, as some scientists believes rings provide a protected area where microorganisms can thrive.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains: “Some studies have shown that skin underneath rings contains more germs than comparable areas of skin on fingers without rings,” but notes that more study on the topic is needed.

But Marie Claire notes that the ring omission also could just be part of Kate’s “casual style at home.”

Prince William’s father, Prince Charles, recently tested positive for the coronavirus and is reportedly now recovering.