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A Brief History of Engagement and Wedding Rings


Did you know that about 80% of women receive diamonds as engagement rings? The average couple spends more than $4,000 on her engagement ring and chances are (other than the beguiling nature of diamonds) they probably don’t know why.

Giving rings to signify marriage started way back in ancient Egypt. Their beliefs included circles as symbols of eternity. Although not made of precious metals and gemstones, the braided reeds that formed the rings were worn on the left ring finger. That tradition has continued, because the vena amoris, a vein that is supposed to run directly to the heart, is in that finger.

In 2nd century Rome, the custom of giving the bride money or something else valuable underwent a change. The groom gave his betrothed a gold ring which she was to wear only on special occasions (such as the betrothal ceremony). She wore an iron ring at home that symbolized not his undying love, but her legal agreement that he owned her.

So when did diamonds enter the picture?

In 1477, Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a special engagement ring set that features thin, flat diamonds in the shape of an M when he proposed to her. European nobility followed suit by adding precious gems to their own jewelry.

When diamonds were discovered in South Africa in 1880, Cecil Rhodes and a group of investors founded the DeBeers Mining Company. It took less than a decade for them to own 90% of the world’s diamonds, which they advertised heavily. However, after the Great Depression, the company’s ad agency created its now-famous slogan, “A Diamond is Forever.” Finally, by 1940, engagement rings were the most popular jewelry item in most department stores.

Perhaps you are looking for an engagement ring or wedding set for your upcoming nuptials. If so, check out our amazing collection of Diamond Bridal Sets where you will find a stunning array of rings that are exquisite and yet surprisingly affordable!

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Diamond Rings, Engagement Rings, Wedding Rings