Ring Engagement

The first properly recorded use of engagement rings was by the Romans, also called a “betrothal” ring. They did not really gain much popularity again until around the 13th century, but then up until around the start of the 20th Century they lost popularity by many due to the Religious faith many had at that time, and that jewellery was not meant to be worn. So various other presents were given instead.

Engagement rings that contained other coloured gems where not used much until around the beginning of the 1930s.

This ring is supposed to represent a sort of formal contract between usually a man and women, so as they will become married in the future, and is most often presented by the man to the women. In the UK and US they are worn only by the female, but in some other countries the male and female will wear matching bands.

In the UK and North America, it is worn on the left hand ring finger, while in other countries such as Belgium and Ukraine, it is worn on the right hand ring finger. Sometimes in Germany and some South American Countries, the ring is worn on the left whilst engaged, but on the right hand when married. Most often though throughout all traditions it is most commonly worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, this is because it known as the vena amoris or “vein of love,” that leads direct to the heart.

In Nordic nations, diamond engagement rings tend to be worn by both men and women at the same time, but in only a few other countries does this occur.

Before agreeing to the actual consent of getting married, some peoples traditions mean they may wear what are known as pre-engagement rings or “promise” rings, before the engagement ring is worn.

In Summary

Around 80% of women in the Western World are offered a diamond ring, such as Diamond Solitaire, Diamond Cluster and Diamond Trilogy (three stones in a row), as well as many others. The price of this ring can vary considerably, but due to De Beers early 20th Century marketing, it is generally presumed a man should spend 2 to 3 months’ wages.

Although most commonly found with the gemstones set as previously mentioned, they can be purchased with any gem that you prefer, such as topaz, aquamarine or garnet for instance, but it is important to take into account what general environment they will be worn in. The choices of diamond, ruby, sapphire and emerald, are great because they are hard and relatively robust, but other choices such as tanzanite must be nurtured more. These gems are less robust and scratch resistant, and therefore not always practical to be worn all day during all working practice.

Due to these reasons the purchase of diamond simulants, such as Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings have added benefit. As well as being as hard as their diamond equivalents, they can be obviously purchased at much lesser costs. The same can be said for synthetic coloured gemstones.

Traditionally there is nothing more wanted by the bride-to-be than a Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring, usually the bigger the better, but at the end of the day the choice is entirely up to you (and your pocket!), just choice carefully to avoid disappointment. Best of luck..