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Prince William has given fiancee Kate Middleton Princess Diana's engagement ring.

Comprising of sapphire and diamond gems, the jewel was selected by the former Princess of Wales when she got engaged to Prince Charles in 1981.

When it was first purchased it cost £28,000 and was chosen from a collection of items by jewellery firm Garrard.

Prince William, commenting on his choice of ring, said it was "my way of making sure my mother didn't miss out on today and the excitement".

Kate Middleton's family have remarked that they are "absolutely delighted" about their daughter's plans to marry the prince, who she has been seeing for eight years.

Their engagement was officially announced yesterday (November 16th) stating that Prince William proposed on a Kenyan holiday after seeking the permission of his girlfriend's father.

The pair have been together since they met as students at St Andrews University and a statement from Clarence House has alluded that the wedding itself will take place in the spring or summer of next year.

Prince William has given girlfriend Kate Middleton an engagement ring after eight years of dating.

Kate Middleton is wearing a diamond engagement ring after Prince William proposed to her on holiday in Kenya.

The royal, who had his girlfriend's father's approval, popped the question last month while the pair were away.

Having met eight years ago as students at St Andrews University, the couple have been photographed together on numerous occasions including on holiday, at William's RAF graduation ceremony and at a recent friend's wedding – which they arrived at together rather than attending separately, as is tradition.

David Cameron, who spoke to the prince before announcing the news in a cabinet meeting, said: "This is incredibly exciting news and I am sure the whole country will want to pass on their congratulations."

It is not yet known when exactly the couple will be marrying, but a statement from Clarence House confirms the event will be in the spring or summer of 2011.

Another public figure sporting a new diamond ring this week is Jessica Simpson, who admitted she was engaged after being photographed with the jewel on her ring finger.