Justin Timberlake's Jessica Biel ring

Sep 30, 2008, 4:00 GMT

06/11/2008 - Justin Timberlake - "The Love Guru" Los Angeles Premiere - Arrivals - Grauman\'s Chinese Theater - Hollywood, CA, USA © David Gabber / PR Photos

Justin Timberlake has bought a vintage ring for girlfriend Jessica Biel.

The 'SexyBack' singer, who has been dating Jessica since early last year, reportedly splashed out on the expensive accessory during their romantic holiday in Rome, Italy.

Jessica picked out the ring, along with a diamond bracelet also from the 70s, at a tiny, unmarked shop in a cobbled street near Via Condotti, Rome's most exclusive shopping street.

Shop owner Nicola Boncompagni said: "I could tell they had very refined taste because they asked about the history of all the jewellery. They seemed shy but in love."

The couple, who visited the shop after a friend recommended it, asked the sales assistant to empty the huge safe of its most expensive pieces so Jessica could try everything on.

When Jessica admired a 17th century necklace, Justin serenaded her with a song from her new period drama 'Easy Virtue'.

After spending an hour in the shop, Justin and Jessica asked for the jewellery they had chosen to be sent straight to their luxurious hotel suite.

Earlier this year, it was claimed the pair were preparing to marry.

In June, Justin was seen shopping for an engagement ring and had reportedly asked Jessica's close friends to help him choose the perfect diamond band.