Prince William gifts his mother Diana’s ring to Kate

Following the announcement of the royal engagement of Prince William and Kate Middleton, Clarence House confirmed in a brief statement that the Prince has gifted Kate his mother's 18-carat sapphire and diamond engagement ring.

The wedding, which is scheduled to take place on Friday, April 29, 2011 at Westminster Abbey, will be a semi-state affair.

The gifting of his mother's sapphire and diamond engagement ring was Prince William's way to ensure that the late Princess did not miss out on today and the excitement.

The much-talked about ring was selected by Lady Diana Spencer at the time of her engagement to Prince Charles from a collection presented to her by the then-Crown jewelers. The ring designed by the renowned jewelry house, Garrard, features a 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire and diamonds.

Prince William presented the ring to Kate during a holiday in Kenya. After the royal wedding, both William and Kate will live in north Wales where the Prince is currently based with the Royal Air Force.