Kate Middleton and Prince William began dating while at the University of St Andrews. While at university the Duchess of Cambridge was given a ring with a sweet hidden meaning, a style expert explained.

“This beautiful, delicate ring is understated in style,” he told Express.co.uk.

“However, the very personal message hidden within it from a future King makes it an enormously romantic royal jewel.

“William gifted Kate this Victorian rose gold band encrusted with pearls and garnets, while they were still at the University of St Andrews where they met as students.

“It’s no surprise Kate was seen wearing it at her graduation.

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“It was a milestone marking her own achievements but also a day which put her on the threshold of a new chapter in her life together with William beyond university.”

After leaving university the royal couple continued to date and Prince William proposed in 2010.

The Duke of Cambridge is second in line to the throne which means Kate is set for an important royal role.

If Prince William becomes King, Kate would get the title of Queen Consort.

“Pearls are a June birthstone – William was born in June – and they symbolise love, purity, humility and innocence.

“Garnets are the birthstone for January, when Kate was born, and were named by the ancient Greeks for their colour resembling pomegranate seeds.

“Garnets signify protection and are thought to promote confidence and mental clarity.”

The choice of jewels could have shown Prince William’s commitment to his future wife.

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The royal line of succession – who outranks who?

The line of succession to the British throne dictates the order in which each member of the Royal Family would ascend to the throne.

It is also seen as a ranking of importance with the head of the line, the Queen, taking the place of ruler.

Older children come before younger children. Traditionally boys came before girls, but this law was changed on 26 March 2015 before the birth of Prince William’s first child.

Incredibly, Catholics are still excluded from the line of succession, as are children born outside of wedlock.

The royals, who usually stick to a strict protocol when appearing in public, often arrive at events in ascending order of importance, with the most important royal arriving last.

Prince Charles, 71, is currently first-in-line to the British throne, followed by Prince William, 38, his oldest son.

Then comes Prince William’s children, George, seven, Charlotte, five, and Louis, two, and they are followed by Prince Harry, 36. Prince Harry is succeeded by his son Archie Harrison, born in May 2019.