Also known as eternity rings, engagement rings are so much more than just pieces of jewellery. They symbolise commitment, love and tradition, and they quickly gain enormous sentimental value for their owners too.
In modern society, we wear engagement rings proudly and show them off with our best outfits. But stepping back in time reveals a tradition that’s evolved in fascinating ways over the centuries. From Roman betrothals to tailored contemporary designs, here’s how the history of engagement rings unfolded.
The presence of engagement rings can be traced back to Ancient Rome.
Back then, they were typically made of iron and served an equally archaic purpose: they symbolised ownership, not love. Women would wear these rings to prove that they were tied to their husbands legally – known as being betrothed. Thousands of years later in the Renaissance, engagement rings started to take on a more romantic meaning. Also known as poesy rings, they were often inscribed with love poems or romantic messages.
Gemstones started to appear in engagement rings around the 15th century, and each type held its own symbolic meaning. Diamonds, for example, were thought to represent strength and clarity.
In 1477, Archduke Maximillian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring. This event is widely perceived as the first recorded instance of a diamond engagement ring.
A few centuries later, diamonds appeared in the global spotlight. Vast mines were unearthed in South Africa in the late nineteenth century, and with this discovery, De Beers began the famous marketing campaign titled A Diamond is Forever. Launched in 1947, this slogan cemented diamonds as the universal symbol of love and commitment.
Over the years, fashion trends have been reflected in the shapes and designs of engagement rings too. From the elegance of the Art Deco period to the bold, geometric designs of the 1950s, engagement rings take many forms. Vintage-style rings are still popular today, with some couples preferring antique pieces to reflect their personal tastes.
There has also been a recent shift towards alternative gemstones like sapphires and emeralds. Just take a look at Kate Middleton’s sapphire engagement ring to see the beauty of this blue stone. Furthermore, lab-grown diamonds offer an ethical and more affordable option for environmentally-conscious wearers.
Symbolism looks different in the modern era. Today, engagement rings mean more than just a legal promise. They’re a symbol of love and commitment, reflecting each couple’s journey with a thoughtfully chosen style and material.
Over the next few years, we expect to see growing trends towards sustainability and individuality. Couples will harness technology to personalise rings, and eco-friendly materials will remain at the forefront. Meanwhile, gorgeous vintage rings will always be up for grabs too.
I loved going engagement ring shopping with my son. I even went with my daughter so she could send her “fiance” ideas of what she liked. There are so many style these days. I do like the simple solitaire the best, but everyone’s taste is different which makes it so much more fun!
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