The History of Engagement Rings: From Ancient Times to Modern Trends

When it comes to getting engaged, the first thought that pops up in our mind is a glittering diamond engagement ring. The tradition of presenting an engagement ring as a symbol of love and commitment dates back centuries. However, the origin of engagement rings is believed to go back to the ancient Egyptians, who saw the circle as a powerful symbol of eternity. In this article, we will dive into the history of engagement rings, exploring the customs, trends, and styles that have been followed from ancient times to modern days.

Ancient Times

Engagement rings originated in ancient times, where the practice of exchanging rings was a symbol of betrothal or the promise of marriage. The ancient Egyptians believed that the circle symbolized eternity - no beginning or end - and so, they wove a plant-based material into what we now know as engagement rings. These rings were typically worn on the left hand ring finger since it was believed that a vein in the finger, known as the vena amoris, ran directly to the heart, signifying the importance of the ring's placement.

In ancient Rome, the groom would present his bride with an iron ring, which represented strength and permanence. The iron ring was later replaced with a gold one, symbolizing wealth and status.

The Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages, engagement rings served a much more practical purpose apart from representing love and commitment. Gimmal rings, also known as joint rings, were popular during this time. These consisted of two or three interlocking bands that could be separated and worn separately by the bride and groom on their wedding day.

Posy rings also became popular during the Middle Ages. These dainty gold rings were engraved with romantic inscriptions or poems, making them a popular choice for expressing love and commitment.

Victorian Era

The Victorian era saw a surge in the popularity of engagement rings. Traditional Victorian engagement rings were characterized by intricate designs and featured clusters of diamonds accompanied by other precious stones. The concept of birthstones and their significance also emerged during this era, making gemstones a popular choice for engagement rings.

During this time, diamonds became more accessible due to the discovery of mines in South Africa. The De Beers mining company capitalized on this discovery, creating a marketing campaign that established diamonds as the ultimate symbol of love and commitment. By the end of the Victorian era, diamond engagement rings became the norm.

Roaring Twenties

The Roaring Twenties brought about a sense of liberation, both socially and sartorially. Art Deco-inspired engagement rings featuring bold geometric shapes, intricate patterns, and contrasting color stones became popular. Platinum also became a popular metal choice for engagement rings.

Post-World War II

After World War II, platinum became scarce, and the focus shifted towards gold. Yellow gold emerged as a popular metal choice and remained popular throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

Modern Trends

In recent times, couples have started moving away from traditional diamond engagement rings, looking for alternative gemstones and metals. The rise of ethical and sustainable jewelry has seen an increase in popularity of non-traditional engagement rings such as moissanite and lab-grown diamonds.

Many modern couples are also choosing to design their engagement rings, opting for personalized, unique designs that reflect their personalities and style. This has given rise to a significant trend for vintage engagement rings, as people are looking for rare, one-of-a-kind pieces.

The Future of Engagement Rings

As the world changes, so do the trends in engagement rings. Future engagement rings may feature more sustainable and eco-friendly materials, as well as avant-garde designs that challenge traditional ideas of what an engagement ring should look like.

Conclusion

From ancient Egyptians to modern times, the tradition of presenting an engagement ring has evolved significantly. Whether it's a traditional diamond ring or a unique, personalized design, engagement rings remain a symbol of love, commitment, and the promise of forever. At BijouHer, we offer a stunning collection of timeless, classic engagement rings as well as unique, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect modern trends. Visit our website to explore our collection and find the perfect engagement ring for that special someone.