There's an important reason why Prince William doesn't wear a wedding ring

Prince William has been front and centre this week, with the Prince of Wales stepping up and taking on major responsibilities while his father, King Charles, has treatment for cancer. 

As the 41-year-old led the investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Wednesday, honouring 50 people on behalf of the King, one detail about the prince caught the most public attention - the absence of a wedding ring. 

No, this is nothing to read into. You may not have noticed this before but Prince William does not and never has worn a wedding ring.

The Prince of Wales, who married Kate Middleton in 2011, has never been spotted with one - with his reasoning being not only relatable but important. 

To put it plainly, he just doesn’t want to wear one. Simple.

And while the royal couple announced that he would be going ring-free ahead of their wedding 13 years ago, people are just starting to notice that he doesn't wear the traditional piece of jewellery.

"He’s not one for jewellery," a Palace aide has previously explained. "He’s never worn any. He decided he didn’t want to wear one now. It’s all down to personal preference."

Prince William’s decision is not an uncommon one with more and more men choosing to go wedding ring-free.

In fact, it turns out that it’s a common decision in the royal family with William's late grandfather, Prince Philip, also opting out of wearing one. However, Prince Harry has broken the royal tradition by wearing a simple platinum band on his left hand, made by the Cleave and Company, the same jeweller behind Meghan Markle's engagement ring.

Essentially, it is up to each royal what they prefer. And for the Wales couple, Kate has enough sparkle for the two of them, never seen without Princess Diana’s 12-carat blue Ceylon sapphire engagement ring on her finger.

Now there's a ring we'd also wear every day!