For centuries, rings have been used in ceremonies throughout the world, and the custom of proposing an engagement ring dates back to ancient Romans who used a ring to symbolize the marriage contract (indicating that ownership of the bride was being transferred from her father to her husband). Engagement rings are still one of the most popular wedding customs today, although their significance has shifted from ‘ownership’ to representing ‘eternity’ and ‘unity.’
A man takes, on average, three months to select the perfect engagement ring. Diamond engagement rings are the most frequent gemstone for modern engagements; nonetheless, other gems may be utilized in place of diamonds.
Diamonds
The first diamond engagement ring was presented in 1477 by an Austrian archduke, and diamonds are the most popular gem for engagement rings today. Diamonds represent clarity, power, and purpose because they are the hardest stone and entirely composed of pure carbon. There’s a reason why the symbolism of diamonds doesn’t go with marital happiness; diamond engagement rings have been fashionable lately due to more than tradition or significance.
De Beers, a diamond mining firm, took control of the worldwide diamond trade in the early 1900s. They began a campaign to promote diamonds as a sign of everlasting love shortly after (yes, this is where the phrase “a diamond is forever” comes from).
Alternative Gemstones
Many people choose brightly colored, non-traditional gemstones rather than diamonds for engagement rings (this is especially popular among Millennials). Alternative gems create one-of-a-kind engagement rings that are frequently less expensive than diamond rings.
Morganite, which is typically pinkish or orangish in hue, is one of the most popular diamond alternatives today. Morganite stands for divine love and emotional healing. Garnets (January’s birthstone) are also a popular choice, and while red is the most common hue, they come in a variety of hues.
Sapphire engagement rings—often called “Princess Di” diamonds—are also popular alternatives to diamond jewelry. Sapphires are associated with wedding joy, according to legend. Although blue is the most well-known hue for sapphires, they may also be found in pink, yellow, white, green, violet, and black. Wedding bands set with aquamarine are said to connote marital harmony in order to ensure a long and happy marriage.
Gemstones to Avoid
Although many couples choose non-traditional gemstones (or a combination of non-traditional and diamonds), there are some stones to avoid if you or your partner are more superstitious.
Emeralds, while being a popular choice for engagement rings, are considered to be bad luck for weddings. If an emerald ring is proposed with during the wedding ceremony, it is said that the marriage will not occur and that the engaged woman will certainly die an old maid. In certain cultures, pearl engagement rings are frowned upon because they represent grief in their form—this is due to pearls’ natural shape, which resembles a tear.
Why is it important to Choose an Engagement Ring?
Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most important decisions you will make in your lifetime. It is a symbol of your love and commitment to each other, and will be worn by your partner for the rest of their life.
There are a few things to consider when choosing an engagement ring, such as budget, style, and quality. It is important to find a balance between these three factors to ensure you are getting the best ring for your money.
Budget:
The first thing to consider when choosing an engagement ring is your budget. Engagement rings can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It is important to set a budget before shopping so you do not overspend.
Style:
The next thing to consider is the style of the ring. There are many different styles of engagement rings to choose from, such as solitaire, halo, three-stone, and more. It is important to find a style that you both like and will be comfortable wearing.
Quality:
Finally, it is important to consider the quality of the ring. Engagement rings are made from different materials, such as gold, silver, platinum, and more. It is important to choose a material that will stand the test of time and wear well.
When you take all of these factors into consideration, you are sure to find the perfect engagement ring for you and your partner. Congratulations on this special time in your life!