Engagement rings: The history and everything you need to know

The Engagement Ring: History

The Story of the Engagement Ring

Taking such a significant step without understanding the origins of this tradition is unthinkable. The history of the engagement ring stretches back to ancient times, starting with the ancient Egyptians. Back then, the ring symbolized trust and respect, conveying the message that the woman was seen as a reliable partner with whom to build a family. In Roman culture, it was customary to present the bride with two rings: one made of iron for domestic wear and another made of gold for public display, both representing the man’s commitment to his wife.

As time progressed, the appearance of the engagement ring evolved significantly, gradually aligning with the jewelry styles we recognize today. The pivotal moment came in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gifted his bride, Mary of Burgundy, with a diamond-studded ring, marking the introduction of precious stones into the tradition. The concept of the solitaire emerged much later, in the late 1800s, while each era throughout history is distinguished by distinct types and cuts of stones adorning engagement rings.

In addition, the tradition of gifting diamond rings grew even more popular due to the booming production of diamonds from South Africa, which escalated significantly since the early 20th century. Then, in 1938, the De Beers company launched an advertising campaign recommending how much to spend on an engagement ring — “one month’s salary.” Subsequently, in 1948, a journalist came up with the slogan “A diamond is forever,” sparking an enduring tradition.

Types of Engagement Rings: How Many Are There?

Solitaire Engagement Ring:

Even the least fashion-conscious person will recognize this one. The most common and beloved, the solitaire engagement ring has distinct characteristics—it features a single diamond set on a metal band. The significance? One stone, one love. How can one resist such a declaration of pure romance? A classic ring with undeniable elegance, suitable for a lifetime and every outfit. Can we call it a guaranteed success?

Check out some of our solitaires from our “I do” collection:

Eternity (also known as eternity band or full eternity): The name says it all. Giving this ring means declaring eternal love. A band adorned with a line of gems, typically diamonds, but also sapphires, rubies, or emeralds for those who adore vintage or seek to stand out. Simpler in its half-eternity mode, where the line of diamonds only covers the upper half of the ring. It’s a ring that captivates with its brightness and can complement any personality.

Pavé: A metal band where many precious stones or diamonds are set closely together, covering the upper surface of the ring. A real challenge for jewelers, who must rely heavily on patience and precision. The smoother and more compact the surface, the better the diamonds are set.

Check out this beautiful mix between an eternity ring and a pavé band:

Trilogy Engagement Rings: Similar to the classic solitaire but, as the name suggests, with three smaller diamonds set on the metal band where, if desired, a line of even smaller diamonds can be added. Another elegant choice, especially suitable for those with slender and graceful fingers; but who knows if three diamonds are better than one? Some trilogy models:

Halo: The halo engagement ring is not for everyone as it is quite flashy. A ring featuring a central diamond or another stone, enhanced by a halo of smaller stones or diamonds all around. If desired, a line of stones or diamonds can be added to the upper half of the metal band, further increasing the visual impact of an already significant ring.

Precious Gemstones for Engagement Rings

Diamond, as we know, is the most popular gemstone when it comes to choosing an engagement ring, but certainly not the only one. Depending on the message you want to convey and the personality of your loved one, it would be advisable to consider another gemstone such as ruby, sapphire, or emerald.

Meaning of Precious Gemstones

Let’s explore the significance of each precious gemstone together and gain a better understanding of how to choose the perfect engagement ring:

Diamond: Gifting an engagement ring with a diamond signifies communicating a feeling of strong and enduring love, timeless and unbreakable.

Sapphire Engagement Ring: Ngjyrë e kaltër oqeanike,symbol I një dashurie të bazuar në respekt.

Ruby Engagement Ring: The color of passion and enduring love over time.

Aquamarine Engagement Ring: This gemstone, besides being very elegant, symbolizes the idea of a happy and lasting marriage.

Emerald Engagement Ring: With its green color, it signifies hope for eternal love, of course.

Opal: The symbol of the sincerest love.

Beryl: The strong union within the couple, the symbol of an unbreakable bond.

Gemstone Cuts for the Engagement Ring

To make the adventure of choosing the engagement ring even more intricate, know that it won’t suffice to decide on the type of stone and setting alone! You’ll also need to pinpoint the right cut of the diamond or precious gemstone you’ve chosen. Listing all cuts would be lengthy and tedious, but discussing the most significant ones will undoubtedly prove helpful.

Brilliant: One of the most popular shapes, the round brilliant, is especially used for solitaire diamond engagement rings. This cut comprises 58 facets designed to unleash extraordinary brilliance from the stone.

Oval: The oldest cut, with 56 facets, symbolizing balance. As the name suggests, its elongated shape gives a larger visual effect to the gemstone compared to the round cut.

Pear: A cut often used for earrings or necklaces but also lends elegance to rings. Perhaps a less youthful shape but still captivating.

Marquise: A name that takes us back in history. Legend has it that in the 18th century, King Louis XV of France gave his beloved a ring resembling the shape of her lips. The result is an oval cut with two points at the end symbolizing the corners of the mouth, an emblem of style and sophistication!

Heart: A cut for young and romantic couples, the heart-shaped cut is one of the most complicated to execute. Ranging from 56 to 58 facets, it may not be suitable for all personalities despite its sweetness.

Emerald: Rectangular in shape with slightly tapered corners, it exudes less brilliance than the brilliant cut as it has 50 to 58 facets, but its breadth highlights the purity of the stone. Symbolizes absolute refinement.Princess: A square or rectangular cut with well-defined corners. Facets range from 57 to 76, making it a very luminous gem and perfect for a marriage proposal.

Radiant: Square with rounded corners, the radiant cut features 62 to 70 facets, making it — along with the princess cut — the most luminous of all gemstones.

If we made you feel even more curious, take a look at 10 of the most unique Diamond Cuts

Metal Choices for Engagement Ring Settings

Taking a closer look at the metals used in crafting engagement ring settings, as this decision plays a pivotal role in defining the ring’s aesthetic appeal. It’s worth noting that gold rings aren’t crafted purely from gold; rather, they’re composed of gold alloys. These alloys, which combine gold with metals like copper and silver, not only achieve the desired color but also contribute to the ring’s strength and durability.

In our guide to buying a wedding ring, you have a more detailed breakdown of the metals that can be used in the design of a ring. You can read in the article: 10 things you should know before buying your wedding rings.

Where does the engagement ring go?

Traditionally, the engagement ring is worn on the left ring finger, just like the wedding band. On the wedding day, it’s customary to move the ring to the right ring finger to make room for the wedding band. However, it’s increasingly common today to see both the engagement ring and the wedding band worn on the same finger.

Engagement rings for women

Engagement rings for men

In conclusion, choosing the perfect engagement ring is a journey filled with meaningful decisions, from selecting the ideal gemstone and cut to considering the metal for the setting and deciding where to wear it. Whether you opt for a classic solitaire diamond ring or explore more intricate designs like halo or trilogy settings, each choice reflects the unique love story shared between you and your partner.

Remember, while tradition offers guidance, there are no hard and fast rules—let your personal style and preferences guide you as you embark on this enchanting journey toward forever. With an array of options available, your dream engagement ring awaits, symbolizing a lifetime of love, commitment, and cherished memories.