A Brief Overview Of The Engagement Ring
The giving or receiving of a ring upon becoming betrothed goes back to the most ancient civilizations. However, these were usually just a simple band of metal rather than the elaborate gems modern brides consider today. The oldest known diamond rings was bestowed in 1477 by the Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian to his fiancee, Mary of Burgundy. Diamonds were then very rare and only the richest could afford them. But during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the supply increased dramatically. Average income also increased during the Industrial Revolution. The combination of the two factors allowed diamonds to be purchased by more people.
Solitaire engagement rings are the most popular variety sold. The term technically refers to a ring with a single stone, regardless of cut. However, a round cut is the most common, although there are many different ways to mount it. The round cut is considered to be optimal for enhancing the reflective properties of a diamond.
A trilogy ring is a variation on a solitaire. This style has two small stones with a larger one between them. These are typically all three diamonds, but variations have become very popular in recent decades. Sometimes, a sapphire, emerald, or ruby is substituted for the center diamond, while at other times the bride may choose her birthstone.
Some brides prefer an antique engagement ring. Most of these date from the turn of the nineteenth century through the 1950s, since any older than 50 years can be called an antique. The majority of these are diamonds. There are also many from the 1920s and 1930s made in the art deco manner that often use other gems as well. Rings that date back further than that may not use diamonds, especially those older than about 1700. Many of these are set with other precious gems, and may feature very intricate designs.
Princess cut engagement rings have been gaining in popularity in recent years. These diamonds are cut into a square shape and have a flat top. They are sometimes mounted flush with the band, but the typical mount places the prongs at the corners of the stone.
Emerald cut stones are rectangular in shape. Typically they have facets along each side and a top that is flat. The marquis stone is fairly round, but it will taper into a point at each end. Pear shaped cuts are rounded at one end and sharply pointed on the other end. They are more often made into pendants, earrings, or set among additional stones since their shape is not considered an attractive solitaire.
Many modern beliefs about diamonds are not historic traditions, but instilled by advertising campaigns launched by the major jewelers. For instance, the suggestion that a groom spend at least two times his monthly salary on an engagement ring came from such a campaign. However, diamonds have only continued to grow in popularity among prospective brides. Thankfully, diamonds are now more plentiful, affordable, and varied, which lets almost every bride add a sparkler to her hand.
