Engagement rings have been a symbol of love and commitment for centuries. From ancient times to modern trends, the history of engagement rings is rich and fascinating. Let's take a journey through time to explore the evolution of this meaningful piece of jewellery.
A Ring to The Heart
In ancient Egypt, rings were made from hemp, reeds, or leather and were used as a symbol of love and commitment. This practice eventually evolved into using metal rings and the tradition of wearing a ring on the fourth finger of the left hand, known as the “ring finger”, started to develop. This belief held that the fourth finger had a vein that ran directly to the heart, making it the perfect place to wear a symbol of love.
Diamonds to Promise
In 1477, the first recorded diamond engagement ring was given to Mary of Burgundy by the Archduke Maximilian of Austria. This marked the beginning of diamonds becoming the go-to choice for engagement rings. By the late 1800s, diamond engagement rings had become a popular trend among the upper classes, and it wasn't until the late 20th century that they became more widely accessible to the general population.
Solitaires to Gemstones
Today, engagement rings come in a variety of styles and materials. From classic diamond solitaires to colourful gemstones and unique, non-traditional designs, there's a ring for every couple's personal style. One of the biggest modern trends in engagement rings is custom design. Couples are opting for unique, personalised rings that reflect their love story and personalities.
A Promise to the Environment
Another trend in engagement rings is sustainability. With the growing awareness of environmental and ethical issues, many couples are choosing to go green with their engagement rings. This can mean opting for a ring made from recycled metals or a conflict-free diamond.
The history of engagement rings is a story of love, tradition, and evolution. From ancient times to modern trends, the meaning and significance of this special piece of jewellery remain unchanged. Whether it's a diamond solitaire or a unique, custom design, an engagement ring is a symbol of a couple's commitment to each other and their future together.
