Engagement rings come in an infinite range of designs, but the most popular style is the diamond engagement ring. These rings are so iconic that diamonds have become synonymous with engagements. But why is that?
Let’s take a closer look at how diamond engagement rings have come to be such an iconic symbol of love and commitment.
Who started the diamond engagement ring tradition?
Although the tradition of presenting your sweetheart with a ring to symbolize the promise of marriage dates back to Ancient Rome and Egypt, the first diamond engagement ring only appeared in the fifteenth century.
In 1477, Archduke Maximilian of Austria commissioned the very first diamond engagement ring on record for his future wife, Mary of Burgundy. From that moment on, diamond rings became a huge trend among European nobles, but they weren’t associated with engagements yet.
It was the Victorians who popularized diamond engagement rings. Most ring designs of the time featured diamonds and other gemstones, such as rubies, sapphires, and emeralds - akin to Queen Victoria’s own engagement ring.
It wasn’t until after World War II that diamonds became accessible to a wider audience, though - that is, people other than European nobles, who had been wearing diamond rings for centuries.
From then on, diamond engagement rings became the norm - and for good reason. They’re the perfect way of symbolizing an everlasting union because diamonds are the toughest material on Earth, making them virtually indestructible.
Do engagement rings have to have a diamond?
Diamonds have become symbols of the partnership and commitment between two people. They signify the strength of their everlasting union. However, as times change, more people are moving away from traditional choices and embracing a new world of individuality. After all, there’s no rule that says engagement rings need to have diamonds.
So, while the traditional route is to propose with a diamond ring, you may choose to surprise your future wife with a unique gemstone ring or even a design featuring colored diamonds. That way, you add a special touch to the traditional engagement ring and purpose with a design that’s as unique as she is.
If you opt for a gemstone ring, keep in mind that not all gemstones are recommended for engagement rings. That’s because gemstones have different levels of hardness, meaning some are more delicate than others.
The gemstone you choose has to last a lifetime of wear and tear, so the harder the gem, the better. Some great options include sapphire, ruby, tanzanite, topaz, emerald, and aquamarine.
Iconic gemstone engagement rings
Lady Di’s sapphire engagement ring is probably the most famous engagement ring in the world. The ring, which is now worn by her daughter-in-law, Kate Middleton, features a beautiful oval-cut blue sapphire surrounded by a halo of diamonds.
Some other exquisite gemstone engagement rings that have made history include the ravishing engagement ring that JFK chose for Jackie Kennedy in the 1950s, which featured an emerald accented with diamonds; Penélope Cruz’s vintage sapphire-and-diamond engagement ring, Katy Perry’s unique floral ruby ring, and Princess Eugenie’s salmon-pink sapphire ring.
Whether you want to stick to tradition or add a unique twist to your sweetheart's engagement ring, you'll find exactly what you're looking for at Blakeman's Fine Jewelry. Visit us today, and our experts will help you find the perfect ring to propose to your soulmate!
