Kate Middleton Engagement Ring, 18-Carat Sapphire

Prince William and Kate Middleton, both 28 years old, announced today that they plan to marry next year! The couple, who apparently became engaged during a vacation in Kenya last month, stepped out this morning for an official photo session in the State Rooms of London’s St. James’s Palace.

Kate picked a blue dress to match her massive new ring, which was Princess Diana’s engagement ring from Prince Charles! The piece of jewelry has an enormous 18-carat sapphire in the middle and is surrounded by diamonds. William said using that ring was of particular importance due to its heritage. He said today, “It is very special to me. It was my way to make sure my mother did not miss out on today and the excitement that we are going to spend the rest of our lives together.”