The real reason King Charles always wears a ring on his pinky
Prince Charles is always seen wearing a signet ring on his smallest finger, engraved with the official crest of the Prince of Wales. We explain why and what his signature gold band represents
By Joshua Hendren
King Charles III’s gold signet ring has rarely moved from his left pinky finger since the mid-1970s. Last worn by his uncle, Prince Edward, the Duke of Windsor, who was the Prince of Wales before he ascended the throne, the ring dates back 175 years.
Otherwise known as a gentleman’s ring, the history of the signet ring is thought to stretch back to the days of the Old Testament. Traditionally worn on the smallest finger (the pinky) the style is often adorned with a coat of arms, family crest or a monogram to symbolise heritage, or social status.
As for His Majesty’s signet, the large gold band is engraved with the official crest of the Prince of Wales – a title that belonged to him for more than 64 years.
The Prince has been photographed wearing the ring since the mid-70s. He even wore the ring at his wedding to Camilla Parker Bowles back in 2005.
Through history, the signet ring has traditionally been worn by men, but in recent decades, women are just as likely to adopt the style. Princess Diana sported her own version back in 1988. While Catherine, Princess of Wales’ family have all been spotted wearing their coat of arms on their pinkies.
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