4K White Gold 1 1/4 ct.
Diamond Engagement Ring

Engagement Rings / Bands

Next to the wedding ring itself the engagement ring is probably the most important piece of jewelry most people buy in their lifetime. It symbolises a deep commitment and intent to marry.

A diamond ring and/or platinum band remains popular however there are many other options on the market including specially designed interlocking metal rings, vintage rings, designs for gay couples, etc. Some stores even offer a "build your own" service where you can design your own unique rings or work with a designer.

History

The history of the engagement ring custom is at best uncertain. Some sort of token of an intent to join in union is found in much of recorded history. The earliest clear example of it taking the form of a ring is probably the betrothal ring of the early Greeks and Romans. Although the Roman rings were usually definite betrothal rings symbolising intent to wed, the Greek tradition was less clear and sometimes just indicated lifelong friendship.

On a practical note, marriage often had significant financial implications in terms of the dowry etc. The giving and acceptance of the ring was seen as as effectively entering into a contract - whether or not such a contract was legally binding would have depended on local law at the time.

Romantic tradition says that the man should buy the engagement ring in secret and offer it to his beloved when proposing. Today it's becoming increasingly common for couples to make important decissions such as engagement and the purchase of rings together.

Traditions regarding the engagement ring vary from country to country. For instance the issue of which finger - and even which hand - the ring should adorn depend on local custom. There are also legal differences between countries as to whether or not the engagement ring is a "conditional" or an "absolute" gift - important in those cases where the relationship breaks down before marriage.

Diamonds

The use of a diamond engagement ring only became standard relatively recently. There have probably been diamond rings used by the rich and powerful for millenia, however the first written record of one (as opposed to legend) appears to be when the Archduke Maximillian of Hamburg gave such a ring to Mary of Burgundy in 1477.

The real popularity of diamonds for engagement rings only began as a result of a 20th century marketing campaign and the famous De Beers "diamonds are forever" slogan.

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