Diamond Jewelry

Have you ever wondered how and when the tradition of giving a diamond engagement ring started? The first diamond ring as an engagement gift was given by the Archduke Maximilian of Austria in 1477 upon his betrothal to Marry of Burgundy.

The predecessors of today’s engagement ring before 1477 were simple iron hoops followed by plain gold bands in later centuries. The only significance of a ring in those days was the representation of eternal relation. Ancient Egyptians were often buried with a gold coiled wire on third finger of left hand because they believed that the vein of this finger directly goes to heart.

It was after 15^th century when a little sparkle was demanded in a betrothal gift. But the sheen of diamond was limited to royal and wealthy clans. A single diamond in its natural crystalline form was much liked in Renaissance era. Rosettes, letters and fleur-de-lys were other multiple diamond setting designs of this time.

Clasped hands holding a rose-cut diamond heart was the most popular style of 16^th and 17^th century. And 18^th century was the time of charming and romantic engagement rings with crowned hearts, bows and sprays of flowers designs.

Diamond rings were a rage in Victorian era. Queen Victoria’s snake style coiled ring was a famous engagement ring of this ear. White gold and platinum art deco rings were popular in the first half of 20^th century. Today also women appreciate and admire the Edwardian style intricate, lace-like filigree rings. The art deco rings with geometric shapes and accent stones have their own charm.

Today, no matter when the tradition was started, diamond engagement rings are a reflection of relations and emotions. Whether classic, contemporary or antique, an engagement ring is valuable and symbolizes everlasting love.