Why Are Engagement Rings Diamonds?
By
Tiffany Moore , Updated October 07, 2024
Why are diamonds the stone of choice for engagement rings? The diamond engagement ring has served as a symbol of love and dedication for centuries. For lovers everywhere, combining the beauty, strength and sparkle of fine diamonds with the purity and strength of precious metals is a promise of a long and happy marriage.
In Roman times, wives wore rings attached to small keys to indicate ownership by their husbands, which archaeologists believe is the origin of this tradition.
As symbols of ownership in the past, today they represent mutual commitment and everlasting love. With the evolution of diamond engagement rings, there are now an endless
variety of shapes, cuts, and even colors to choose from.
Below, we'll take you on a journey through the fascinating history of diamond engagement rings, from their origins in ancient Rome to their
present-day role as cherished symbols of everlasting love.
Discover why diamonds became the stone of choice, find out about modern-day ring customs, and learn how to choose the perfect diamond. We'll also share some of our favorite diamond engagement rings to inspire your search for the perfect one.
The History: Why are Engagement Rings Diamonds?
The first
diamond engagement ring dates from 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented his fiancee, Mary of Burgundy, with a diamond ring in the shape of an "M". It was the first documented use of an engagement ring in its modern form. It is believed that this sparked a trend for diamond rings among European aristocracy and nobility.
The popularity of diamond and gemstone engagement rings fluctuated throughout the late 1470s and into the mid-1900s among the aristocracy and the wealthy. However, wood, stone, and simple metal rings were popular among the lower and middle classes.
According to the American Gem Society, sentimental Victorians popularized ornate engagement rings that weaved diamonds with precious metals, gemstones, and enamels. Diamond rings crafted during the Edwardian era continued the tradition of pairing diamonds with other jewels, commonly mounted in filigree settings. Usually these rings were shaped like flowers and dubbed "posey rings."
Engagement rings of today differ greatly from those of the past. In 1947, De Beers created the marketing slogan "A Diamond is Forever," and the diamond engagement ring became an established proposal token. Clearly, they were onto something.
Diamond Engagement Rings of Today
Today diamond rings are widely accepted as the symbol and expected gift for marriage proposals. Whether it's a classic diamond solitaire or a beautiful and
intricate designer engagement ring, lovers around the world are searching for the perfect gift for their special someone.
It's up to you when to pop the question, and we can't wait to hear about it.
If you have read this far you are probably a candidate for our step by step
diamond buying guide. Or you may prefer personal guidance from one of our friendly and knowledgeable diamond consultants. Our veteran team of helpful GIA trained diamond and jewelry experts work on salary, not on commission, so there is never any pressure to buy.
Our mission at Whiteflash is to help you meet your goals and make an informed and confident decision on your important purchase.
Present Day Diamond Engagement Ring Customs
Why do engagement rings continue to be diamonds? Not too dissimilar to the gem-adorned diamond rings of the past, engagement rings commonly have at least one stone at the center, and either a plain or accented band - dependent on taste. However, for those seeking something more striking, settings with more stones at the center and intricate designs with diamonds throughout are available.
If desired, additional accents or metalwork may be added to
enhance the vintage or modern style. You can easily find something that fits you or your significant other's personal style since there are so many appealing styles to choose from.
When you
accept a proposal, you usually wear an engagement ring between your pinkie and middle finger (also known as your fourth finger). Can you imagine what kind of ring it would be?
A variety of diamond engagement rings are available, and new designs are constantly emerging to reflect the diverse tastes of our community. In our opinion, an engagement ring would not be complete without diamond - natural
or lab-grown.
A diamond's light performance is one of the most important factors in its beauty. Savvy shoppers know this. Light performance is directly related to the quality of a fine cut, and this understanding is driving demand for
ideal cut loose diamonds.
How to Choose a Diamond for Engagement Rings
If you are looking for a bonafide high quality engagement ring, you must start with a certified diamond as your feature stone.
The
emergence of lab grown diamonds over the last few years means you can now find a diamond of high quality for every budget. These are real diamonds that have essentially the same chemical, physical, and optical properties
as natural diamonds. Their price is also significantly lower.
No matter what kind of diamond you choose, make sure you get one that is well cut, regardless of whether it is natural or lab created. You want maximum sparkle in your engagement ring!
To learn what to look for, spend a little time reviewing the 4Cs of diamond quality. Diamond quality and price is determined largely by the
diamond 4C’s:
- Carat: Diamonds are measured in carats, but a higher carat weight doesn't always mean a better value; balance carat with quality to get the most out of your investment.
- Cut: The cut quality of a diamond determines its brilliance and sparkle, so choose an excellent or ideal cut for maximum light reflection and beauty.
- Color: The closer a diamond is to being colorless, the more expensive it is. You should look for stones in a grade you are comfortable with, as everyone perceives color differently.
- Clarity: Higher clarity grades, such as VVS or VS, ensure fewer visible flaws, but small inclusions may go unnoticed to the naked eye in lower grades.
Having a basic understanding of these characteristics will enable you to become an informed buyer, and that will help you avoid some of the pitfalls of diamond shopping and ensure that you get an excellent diamond at a price that’s right for you.
Time spent understanding the basics of diamond light performance will pay brilliant dividends. In the end, it’s all about the fire and scintillation.
For those shopping elite level natural diamonds, the
A CUT ABOVE® Super Ideal is a world class diamond brand. These gems are in-stock, fully vetted and imaged, and immediately available exclusively from Whiteflash. The
full specifications and qualifications for the brand are published on the website, and each diamond comes with a comprehensive assurance package.
Ringspiration: Favorite Diamond Engagement Rings
Below you will find inspiration for engagement rings with diamonds based on three distinct styles. In addition to catering to a variety of tastes, each ring highlights the brilliance and versatility of diamonds.
It doesn't matter what appeals to you most - vintage aesthetics, modern minimalism, or the elegance of classic solitaires - these engagement rings capture the timeless beauty of diamonds.
1. Classic Solitaire
A delicate display of sparkling diamonds sits beneath the center stone of the Valoria Hidden Halo Solitaire Engagement Ring.
In this design, subtlety and brilliance are balanced beautifully. Only those who know where to look for the hidden halo will be able to fully appreciate it. Despite fitting the traditional halo solitaire setting design, the hidden halo enhances the center diamond's beauty without diminishing its significance.
Anyone looking for a solitaire engagement ring that offers something extra, while also being classic and charming, should consider this ring.
2. Vintage Appeal Engagement Ring
Brimming with old-world charm, the Tacori 46-25PR Sculpted Crescent Diamond Engagement Ring is a beautiful homage to vintage elegance. Princess-cut diamonds are distinguished by their regal, squared-off appeal, evoking a traditional yet timeless appeal.
With intricate marquise-shaped details reminiscent of vintage jewelry, the band is meticulously crafted.
Anyone passionate about honoring tradition while expressing their personal style will appreciate this ring. By combining old-world charm with modern brilliance, this ring not only stands out visually, but also embodies enduring love - the very reason diamonds became the ultimate symbol of commitment.
3. Modern and Contemporary Engagement Ring
In a trend that deviates from tradition, more people are proposing with asymmetrical rings. Customers are now seeking rings that reflect their personalities - and who can blame them when so many options are available?
With their statement shapes, these rings catch the eye. The Simon G Fabled Bezel Solitaire Engagement Ring is an excellent example of how asymmetrical design can work brilliantly if it is thoughtfully balanced and executed.
The result is contemporary and fluid at the same time. Asymmetric rings are a great way to express yourself in a playful, less conventional way. Fresh takes on classics always capture attention.
Discover Diamond Engagement Rings with Whiteflash
The experience of finding the perfect engagement ring can be rewarding and exciting. From diamond selection to ring styles, sizing, and beyond, our diverse engagement ring selection at Whiteflash offers something for every taste and budget.
As an industry-leading diamond jeweler,
Whiteflash is committed to assisting you in finding a ring that symbolizes your eternal love and commitment. We are committed to providing exceptional service and guidance to ensure that your engagement ring buying journey is seamless and enjoyable.
Offering exquisite engagement rings and providing unparalleled customer service is what we do best at Whiteflash. We invite you to visit our showroom or browse our online collection to discover the perfect engagement ring - let us be a part of your journey to finding the ring of your dreams.
Celebrate your love with Whiteflash, the premier destination for exceptional diamonds and exquisite craftsmanship. We would be honored to help you find the perfect engagement ring that symbolizes your eternal bond and captures hearts for generations to come.