In a profoundly moving revelation, the heartfelt promise a young Prince William made to his mother about her famous engagement ring has come to light. The future King, then just a boy, assured Princess Diana that he would one day reclaim the stunning sapphire and diamond piece for his own future bride.
The poignant story, detailed by royal author Andrew Morton in his biography "Diana: Her True Story", adds a deeply emotional layer to the ring's history. The gem, which now sparkles on the finger of the Princess of Wales, serves as a powerful symbol of love, legacy, and a son's enduring devotion.
A Bond Forged in Love and Turmoil
William's promise was made against the backdrop of his parents' crumbling marriage and his mother's increasing unhappiness within the royal institution. Diana would often show her sons the ring, explaining its significance and her own attachment to it.
It was during these private moments that William, displaying a maturity beyond his years, made his heartfelt vow. "I remember when I held mummy's hand when I was a small boy and that ring always hurt me because it was so big," he would later reflect.
From Diana's Finger to Kate's
Following Diana's tragic death in 1997, Prince Charles allowed his sons to select keepsakes from their mother's possessions. Prince Harry chose the iconic Cartier watch, while William selected his mother's engagement ring, honouring the promise he made as a child.
The ring's journey to Catherine Middleton's hand is now the stuff of royal legend. When William decided to propose, he carried the ring in his rucksack during a trip to Kenya. He later admitted the immense pressure he felt, knowing he was transporting not just a piece of jewellery, but his mother's legacy. "It was my way of making sure my mother didn't miss out on today and the excitement... it's very special to me," he said after the engagement was announced.
A Ring That Symbolises More Than a Union
The 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire, surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds and set in 18-karat white gold, is more than just an engagement ring. For William, it is a tangible connection to the mother he lost. For the public, it is a cherished symbol of Diana's enduring presence within the modern monarchy, beautifully linking the past with the future.
