In a recent sighting that has sent ripples through the media, Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, was seen without her custom three-stone engagement ring. The ring, valued at an estimated $180,000, is especially significant as it incorporates diamonds from the jewelry collection of Prince Harry's late mother, Princess Diana.

The absence of the engagement ring, which has been a consistent part of Meghan's ensemble, has fueled further speculations about the strain in her marriage to Prince Harry. The couple has recently been under the spotlight due to rumors suggesting tension in their relationship. These speculations have been attributed to various factors, including public backlash, unsuccessful business ventures, and disagreements with close family members.

Sources close to the royal couple have previously mentioned the challenges they face. "They're trying to figure out what hit them," one insider revealed. Another source commented on Prince Harry's adjustment to Meghan's Hollywood lifestyle, stating, "Harry doesn't fit in Meghan's tacky Tinseltown world." The source further added that the prince had been grappling with a series of disagreements and public setbacks.

The Sussexes, who relocated to Montecito, California, in March 2020 after stepping down as senior members of the British royal family, are reportedly feeling the financial strain of maintaining their upscale lifestyle. This includes the costs of their $14 million mansion and extensive security arrangements. "That stress, coupled with their emotional issues, has likely made life a living hell," an insider remarked.

While there were reports in early July suggesting a "trial separation" between the couple, sources close to them refuted these claims. However, it was confirmed that the couple did spend some time apart, with Prince Harry traveling to Tokyo for a vacation and to attend the ISPS Sports Values Summit.

The engagement ring's significance goes beyond its monetary value. At the time of their engagement, Prince Harry had spoken about the thought and effort that went into its creation. Collaborating with Cleave and Company, Queen Elizabeth's preferred jewelers, Harry had said, "The ring is obviously yellow gold because that's [Meghan's] favorite and the main stone itself I sourced from Botswana and the little diamonds either side are from my mother's jewelry collection, to make sure that she's with us on this crazy journey together."

This journey, as many have observed, has been tumultuous for the couple. Reports suggest that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex have been losing friends in Hollywood and believe that their declining popularity and business setbacks are part of a coordinated smear campaign against them.

As the couple navigates these challenges, the world watches closely, with every public appearance and gesture being scrutinized for deeper meanings. The absence of Meghan's engagement ring is the latest in a series of events that continue to keep the Sussexes in the headlines.