A question about the big question. When you envision a proposal in your head, what do you see? Do you see an emotional scene between lovers where a small box is opened to reveal a glittering ring? If so, there’s a good chance that the ring will be set with a diamond, its delicately cut facets a small burst of brilliance.
But why exactly do so many engagement rings have diamonds? Today, we’re taking a closer look at the history behind the diamond engagement ring.
The origins of the diamond ring
According to the American Gem Society, the diamond engagement ring dates back to the 15th century. In 1477, Archduke Maximillian of Austria commissioned a ring for his future wife, Mary of Burgundy.
However, this gesture was a relative rarity and by no means set the standard for engagement rings for the wider public. In fact, the next fashion of note was the ornate posey rings popularised in the Victorian era.
A diamond ring is a classic symbol of love and commitment.The ad campaign that changed the game
If you’ve been researching engagement rings, you may have already seen the famous De Beers advertising campaign from 1947. The clever slogan ‘A Diamond is Forever’ inspired a new wave of appreciation for the diamond ring in America, which was positioned as a symbol of everlasting love between partners.
Several Hollywood stars wore luxurious diamond jewellery, further bolstering the campaign. This effort saw diamond sales soar. Within 20 years of the campaign’s launch, Mental Floss reports that a staggering 80 percent of brides in America were wearing diamond rings.
Should you consider a diamond engagement ring?
While the diamond engagement ring is a symbol of commitment that has spread to the far corners of the globe, it’s not the default option when you pop the question.
A number of other famous engagement rings have married diamonds with other precious stones, such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Often, this is a conscientious decision to complement your fiancé’s personal taste and style.
However, the classic diamond engagement ring has the added advantage of being a piece that will never date, and that complements any other jewellery. You can browse through our range of engagement rings online, but if you’re after something a little more unique, contact us at Joseph George to discuss creating a custom ring designed especially for your other half.
