Kanye West designs ring for Kim

Preparing to pop the question? Kanye has reportedly asked his private jeweller to craft a ring for Kim. Picture: Capture Media Group / Splash News Source: Supplied

KANYE West is reportedly using his late mother's jewels to create an engagement ring for Kim Kardashian.

The rapper has been working with a private jeweller to create a custom-made ring hell use to propose, RadarOnline reports.

Kanye had a close relationship with his mother Donda and bought her many expensive jewels before she died in 2007. He wants these made into a ring he can give to the new number one woman in his life.

Kanye picked out some of Dondas most expensive pieces, including some diamond earrings and a ruby ring, a source close to West told the website.

He then gave them to a private jeweller friend to make Kim a one-of-a-kind engagement ring.

Kim, 31, is currently embroiled in divorce proceedings with Kris Humphries following their whirlwind marriage of just 72 days.

The 35-year-old will pop the question as soon as Kim is free of her ties to Kris, and is eager to share his life with her.

Donda was such an important person in Kanyes life, he thought the world of her and was devastated when she died, a source explained. And now, Kanye has found a woman he respects and loves just as much as his mom, so he wants to share her jewellery collection with Kim.

The Gold Digger singer seems certain about his future with Kim. While he is sure about his decision to commit, those close to him are not so convinced it is the right step.

His friends think its a terrible idea and are advising him not to give Kim the ring, the insider continued. Because its a gift, it would be difficult for Kanye to ask for it back if they ever split up.