The tradition of giving engagement rings has become an essential part of modern proposals, symbolizing love, commitment, and the promise of a shared future. But did you know that the history of engagement rings spans thousands of years? At Carat Diamonds, we believe understanding the rich history behind this beloved tradition adds an extra layer of meaning to the ring you choose. Here’s a look at the surprising history of engagement rings and how they’ve evolved into the sparkling symbols we cherish today.

Ancient Origins: The Beginning of the Tradition

The history of Engagement Rings dates back to Ancient Rome. Roman men would give their brides-to-be simple iron rings, signifying a legal agreement and ownership. These early rings were not adorned with precious stones but were practical in nature. However, wealthier Romans would sometimes use gold rings, worn only on special occasions, while the iron rings were for daily use.

The tradition of wearing the ring on the fourth finger of the left hand also comes from this era. The Romans believed that this finger had a direct vein, the "vena amoris" or "vein of love," leading straight to the heart, making it the perfect spot for a symbol of eternal love.

The First Diamond Engagement Ring

The first recorded diamond engagement ring dates back to 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy. This marked the beginning of diamonds being associated with engagement rings and set the trend among European aristocracy. The Archduke’s choice of a diamond was not just a symbol of wealth but also a testament to the diamond’s enduring strength, symbolizing an unbreakable bond.

While diamonds were expensive and rare in the 15th century, the practice of giving diamond rings remained limited to the elite class. For many centuries, engagement rings were often made from other precious stones, including sapphires, emeralds, and rubies.

Victorian and Edwardian Eras: The Rise of Decorative Rings

During the Victorian era (1837–1901), engagement rings began to take on more decorative designs, reflecting the romantic style of the time. Diamonds were often paired with other gems and arranged in intricate patterns such as flowers or hearts. This was also the time when rings started to feature filigree work and other detailed craftsmanship that made them more than just a symbol of betrothal—they became pieces of art.

The Edwardian era (1901–1910) saw the introduction of platinum as a popular metal for engagement rings. The strength and durability of platinum allowed for more elaborate designs, which were often complemented by the use of diamonds and other gemstones.

The De Beers Revolution: “A Diamond is Forever”

The modern engagement ring as we know it today owes much of its popularity to the De Beers diamond company. In 1947, De Beers launched the famous marketing campaign with the slogan, “A Diamond is Forever,” which effectively cemented the association between diamonds and engagement rings. This campaign encouraged the idea that a diamond engagement ring was the ultimate symbol of eternal love, and demand skyrocketed as a result.

Since then, diamonds have been the most popular choice for engagement rings, with round brilliant cuts being the most sought-after shape due to their superior sparkle.

Modern Trends: A New Era of Engagement Rings

Today, engagement rings come in a wide variety of styles, from classic solitaires to modern designs featuring colored stones and unique settings. While diamonds remain the top choice, more couples are choosing rings that reflect their personal style and values, including vintage-inspired designs and ethically sourced lab-grown diamonds.

At Carat Diamonds, we offer a stunning selection of engagement rings, allowing you to find the perfect ring that reflects your unique love story while honoring centuries of tradition.

Conclusion

The history of engagement rings is rich and full of surprises, evolving from simple iron bands to the dazzling diamond rings we cherish today. At Carat Diamonds, we are proud to continue this tradition, offering engagement rings that symbolize love, commitment, and a shared future.

Explore our collection and start your own chapter in this beautiful history at Carat Diamonds today.