Engagement rings are the most symbolic and long-standing tradition of marriage. They are a symbol of love, commitment, and devotion. But have you ever wondered when and how this tradition came into existence?
Well, this blog post will guide you along the evolution of the tradition of engagement rings and how they became a symbol of love.
History of Engagement Rings: When Did Engagement Rings Become A Thing?
The culture of engagement rings dates back to ancient times.
Rings began with the Egyptians…
About 5000 years ago, the ancient Egyptians believed the circle represented eternity and started the tradition of gifting a ring to signify eternal love.
The Egyptians used to wear a ring on the 4th finger of the left hand, as they believed that a vein ran from the heart to the finger.
During this era, they made these rings from braided reeds or leather.
Greek Take on the Egyptian Tradition…
The Greeks continued the Egyptians’ tradition but replaced the reeds with precious metals like gold and silver.
The Greeks then added precious stones, like diamonds and rubies, to signify the importance and value of love.
Greek began the tradition of placing the ring on the left hand, and the fourth finger was called “vena amoris” due to the same vein running from finger to heart reason.
Medieval Period, Archduke Maximilian, Engagement Rings, & Symbol Of Love
The tradition of engagement rings became popular during the medieval period when the Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a diamond engagement ring in 1477.
This trend started among the aristocracy, who began gifting diamond rings as a token of love.
Industrial Revolution & Engagement Rings
The popularity of the engagement ring among the general population began to grow in the 19th century, thanks to the Industrial Revolution.
After the industrial revolution, the middle class had access to better wages and could afford to buy diamond engagement rings. This event marked a significant shift in the tradition of engagement rings, as the diamond became the world’s go-to stone for engagement rings.
“A Diamond Is Forever” Saga
In 1947, the diamond engagement ring truly became a household item.
Why? That year, De Beers launched one of history’s most successful marketing campaigns, promoting diamonds as a symbol of love and commitment.
The legendary slogan “A Diamond is Forever” was created, effectively tying diamonds to a lifelong commitment. The campaign was incredibly successful, leading to a surge in demand for diamond engagement rings in the U.S. and worldwide.
Well, There You Have It–
Now you know engagement rings’ history and how they symbolize pure love for your significant other. This sole reason gives meaning to these engagement rings.
So if you want top-quality engagement rings which are unique, trendy, and timeless, then the Online Jewelry Store has everything from 3 Pcs Wedding Ring Sets, Sparking Green Moissanite Diamond Rings to Round Halo Moissanite Diamond Ring, and more!
FAQs
What Hand Do Engagement Rings Go On?
Engagement rings go on the 4th finger, i.e., the “ring finger,” of the left hand.
Who Does An Engagement Ring Legally Belong To?
The legal ownership of an engagement ring usually depends on several factors, including state laws, who paid for it, the giver’s intent, and whether it was a conditional gift. However, in most cases, the ring legally belongs to the recipient once somebody gifts it.