A New Kate Middleton Photo Dropped—And My Eye Went Straight to the Surprise on Her Ring Finger

Last September, Princess Catherine released a special video to announce the completion of her chemotherapy treatments, and several things stood out in this post. For one, there was some rare PDA between the princess and her husband, Prince William, and royal fans got a glimpse of Prince Louis's new skill. But what really caught my attention was *that* finger, which was missing the iconic sapphire engagement ring previously owned by the late Princess Diana. Instead, the ring was swapped for a new infinity band.

Since then, I've developed a habit of glancing at Kate Middleton's wedding finger in her latest portraits. And when Kensington Palace released a stunning new birthday photo of the princess earlier this month, I immediately noticed that Middleton returned to wearing her famous diamond and sapphire ring.

In the black-and-white snap, Middleton is all smiles as she poses with her hands in her pockets, and her sapphire and diamond ring is on full display. The post also includes a special message from William that reads, "To the most incredible wife and mother. The strength you’ve shown over the last year has been remarkable. George, Charlotte, Louis and I are so proud of you. Happy Birthday, Catherine. We love you. W"

The 12-carat diamond and sapphire engagement ring made a comeback after the princess was spotted without it on several occasions. For instance, when Middleton met with a young photographer last October, she traded the piece for her eternity-style ring, which features alternating diamonds and colored gemstones. Also, in the same month, during a surprise visit to Southport, England, she stepped out without the original engagement ring.