An engagement ring is a symbol of the promise of marriage and also a symbol of lifelong commitment in a relationship as husband and wife. It tells the world about love, devotion, and fidelity a couple shares.
An Engagement ring certainly means that the woman wearing it is no longer available to be courted by other suitors.
The first record diamond engagement ring was exchange in ancient Rome in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian presented the ring to signify engagement to his betrothed Mary of Burgundy. Later, Victorians exchanged “regard rings” set with Birthstones.
Today, Diamonds are the most popular choice for many couples. The Italians started the tradition of diamond engagement rings as it was believed in Italy that diamonds are derived from the “flames of love”. They consider the diamond as a symbol of everlasting love.
Diamond engagement rings didn’t really take off until the late 19th century when the discovery of mines in South Africa cause the price of these stones to drop hugely.
In order to relaunch the diamond market, diamond merchant De Beers made a marketing campaign by using the most popular Hollywood stars of the times as testimonials. The idea was so brilliant that diamonds not only regained the market but also set the standard to be the engagement stone of choice.
According to the tradition, the groom presents this jewel to his desire bride when the marriage proposal is accepte and it is representative of the agreement or pledge to marry in the future.
She wears it on her left-hand ring finger. According to ancient belief, the fourth finger of the left hand is connected directly to one’s heart through vena amoris, the vein of love.
The tradition of wearing engagement rings is different in different countries. For example, in Ukraine, the ring is worn on the right hand.
In Poland and Germany, the ring swaps from the left hand to the right hand after marriage. In America, after the wedding, the engagement ring is replaced and is worn on the left ring finger.
Personal Engagement Ring Symbolism
Usually, couples choose engagement rings infused with personal symbolism. Celtic engagement rings represent family knots and ethnic traditions. Antique rings are heavily symbolic of family heirlooms that carry on intimate traditions.
Designer engagement rings can be used to integrate a couple’s individual tastes for personal symbolism. Nowadays couples are also incorporating birthstone rings. These precious gemstones rings include a particular birthstone to represent the bride, groom or the significant date of their relationship.
Sehdev Jewellers will help you to choose the perfect engagement ring with perfect symbolism that will make your proposal really unforgettable.
