Rings were first found in Rome, where they were highly regarded and of considerable value, subsequently growing in popularity amongst the Greeks in addition to the Romans. The first ever people who worn the engagement ring on the left ring finger are Romans, believing it to directly connect to the heart.
The first ever recorded diamond engagement ring was given in 1477 by the Archduke Maximillian to Mary of Burgundy. The tradition has then been practiced all over the world ever since.
Having a diamond ring symbolizes eternal love, a necessity for couples to share, interestingly, this symbolism also coined the saying “A diamond is forever”. A diamond ring symbolizes a great many things, dedication, commitment and love towards each other. A diamond ring can be thought of as the beginning of two individuals becoming a couple, when both parties made the decision to tie the knot and to spend the remaining of their lives together. With that said, an engagement ring was intended to represent the eternal love shared between two individuals.
Getting engaged is said to be the first step for couples to move into love. Although getting an engagement ring is by no means mandatory, tradition dictates that an engagement ring be presented as a surprise to a loved one along with the iconic question “Will you marry me?”. These days however, engagement rings are more commonly bought together due to practicality or personal preferences regarding the ring’s design.
Traditional engagement rings are designed with a centre stone in the middle. The precious stone can either be a sparkling diamond, or other coloured gemstone, set in either white or rose gold or platinum. Over the years more and more variations to the conventional design are being offered, allowing for people to customize their wedding rings or bands according to their preferences. However, be that as it may, there is one unchanging factor of a ring that remains: the sparkle, brilliance and fire of a gemstone.