The Romans are the first group to use engagement rings, which were actually betrothal rings, as a way to signify a relationship. Again these were not the romantic engagements we know today; rather it was a way for the man to remind the woman that her heart belongs to him. It is interesting that the reason the third finger on the left has was selected is because ancient healers believed that the heart was connected with that particular finger by a vein.

The more modern style of decorative and detailed type of engagement rings started to surface in the Middle Ages. Precious stones such as rubies or sapphires were used in place of diamonds which were very rare. Only the wealthiest of royalty could afford to present these types of rings to their future spouses.

Recording history indicates that the first diamond used in engagement rings occurred in 1477. Mary of Burgundy was presented a diamond ring by Archduke Maximillian of Hamburg, which caused quite a fad. Only the very wealthy could afford diamonds, but even the working people exchanged engagement rings, many using the traditional claddagh Irish ring.  

Up to the late 18th and early 19th centuries there were definite diamond shortages, meaning few could afford these precious gems. When mines were found in South America and Africa, diamonds of all shapes and sizes became more popular and affordable and the modern engagement rings came into vogue.

Diamonds are some of the hardest gems, resistant to almost any type of damage. While the saying diamonds are forever was a marketing slogan, it is also one of the reasons they become so essential in engagement rings. Since there were many different qualities of diamonds on the market, the next step was to develop some type of grading for the stones.

With so many diamonds of different quality on the market a grading system was then developed. Certified diamonds, those that have be recorded, graded and evaluated are now available in any type of engagement rings or diamond jewelry items. The certified diamond is also described meaning that authenticity of the diamond is never in question. 

While the history of engagement rings may be more practical than romantic, they are now a true and lasting symbol of love and commitment. Buying engagement rings with certified diamonds helps to protect your investment and help you determine the ring that is just right.

Subscribe to our feed

Most historians agree that the first engagement rings to be routinely used by a particular culture came from the Romans. Roman men would provide a ring, usually of a type of steel, to a woman as a way to keep her heart pure. The reason the third finger of the left hand was used comes from the belief that a vein ran directly from the heart to the hand through this finger. The rings were meant to keep the woman betrothed or true to her partner to be.

As different groups evolved in the Middle Ages the desire to be more decorative and orate with jewelry, including engagement rings, started to surface. Wealthy kings and royalty would present rings that had semi-precious and precious gems to their soon to be brides.

Recording history indicates that the first diamond used in engagement rings occurred in 1477. Mary of Burgundy was presented a diamond ring by Archduke Maximillian of Hamburg, which caused quite a fad. Only the very wealthy could afford diamonds, but even the working people exchanged engagement rings, many using the traditional claddagh Irish ring.  

After diamond mines in South American and Africa were discovered and went into production in the 1800s and 1900s, diamonds become more available to the average working person. Smaller sized diamonds were now affordable, and marketing engagement rings became practical.

Diamonds are some of the hardest gems, resistant to almost any type of damage. While the saying diamonds are forever was a marketing slogan, it is also one of the reasons they become so essential in engagement rings. Since there were many different qualities of diamonds on the market, the next step was to develop some type of grading for the stones.

Now consumers can buy diamond engagement rings with confidence since gems in the rings are certified. Certified diamonds have been full described in the document of certification, allowing the buyer to know every aspect of the diamond before purchase.  

While the history of engagement rings may be more practical than romantic, they are now a true and lasting symbol of love and commitment. Buying engagement rings with certified diamonds helps to protect your investment and help you determine the ring that is just right.

Subscribe to our feed

One culture that traditionally has embraced the very simple gold band style of wedding rings is the Jewish religion. Traditionally the rings are seen as an item that is exchanged between the couple as a sign of their commitment to each other and to the union. The rings are intentionally plain gold bands that symbolize purity and innocence as opposed to something of a very high commercial amount. 

In some cultures, such as the Irish culture, special wedding rings became symbols of both friendship and marriage. The Irish claddagh ring is one example where three interlocking symbols, a heart, crown and hands are used to symbolize love, friendship and loyalty. A couple engaged wears the rings so the crown points towards the body, while a married couple has the pointed end of the heart towards the wearer’s body. 

Some cultures created traditions around wedding rings that included what was available within their particular areas as well as what was of importance to them both symbolically and religiously. The Russian wedding rings, in the traditional style, are three interconnected bands, often of three different metals. The yellow, white and rose gold symbolizes the Holy Trinity, an important part of the cultures strong ties to religious beliefs. 

Traditional rings may be one of any number of metals, with or without any type of adornment or gems. Popular and classic styles of metals for wedding rings include yellow gold of 14 to 24K, white gold, platinum or sterling silver. 

Classic wedding rings can also include variations on the elegant and traditional gold bands. Milgrain bridal rings are very popular for both women and men and offer a slight beading pattern round the outer edges of the band, catching and reflecting light as the ring moves.

Moving to more contemporary classics and traditional rings is the solitaire style of wedding rings. These are beautiful in their striking simplicity, typically a simple band topped with an exquisite diamond. Solitaire rings can be found in bridal sets or as individual engagement rings. 

One of the outstanding features of the solitaire ring styles is that it is so easy to match with the anniversary and eternity rings that are often added to wedding rings. With this option for matching all the different wedding rings in the bridal set, solitaire rings really have become a new classic and tradition.

Subscribe to our feed

Another very traditional option for wedding rings is to for the wedding band itself to be very classic and unadorned. It is believed that this tradition is from the Jewish tradition of an exchange of an item between the groom and bride-to-be at the time of the wedding.  The plain gold wedding rings symbolize purity and love as opposed to something of monetary value. 

In some cultures, such as the Irish culture, special wedding rings became symbols of both friendship and marriage. The Irish claddagh ring is one example where three interlocking symbols, a heart, crown and hands are used to symbolize love, friendship and loyalty. A couple engaged wears the rings so the crown points towards the body, while a married couple has the pointed end of the heart towards the wearer’s body. 

Many cultures used different types of gold or even different metals in their wedding rings.  This typically occurred because of the prevalence of different metals, or to signify specific religious theme. The traditional Russian wedding ring is actually three separate yet connected bands, often in the metals of white, yellow and rose gold. The three gold colors represent the Holy Trinity and the rings symbolize their love and commitment to each other. 

Throughout the world the most common metals used in wedding rings include sterling silver, platinum and white and yellow gold. Typically most yellow gold rings will be 14K to 24K gold, although there are some alternatives. 

Classic wedding rings can also include variations on the elegant and traditional gold bands. Milgrain bridal rings are very popular for both women and men and offer a slight beading pattern round the outer edges of the band, catching and reflecting light as the ring moves.

In newer classic designs for wedding rings, the solitaire ring has really come to the forefront. This style of ring features a large central stone, typically with an elevated setting that is both breathtaking and hard to miss. Since the ring design is simple and understated, it can match with a wide variety of both ornate and simple wedding bands. 

Solitaire rings are considered classics with regards to wedding rings since they are both timeless but also completely in fashion. Since they will match so well with any type of band, eternity ring or anniversary ring they are an outstanding choice for wedding rings that will always be in style.

Subscribe to our feed

Most of the engagement rings from these time periods had very distinctive qualities that uniquely categorize the rings as being vintage. Typically the rings included both yellow and white gold combinations on the bands, however platinum was and is also used in creating some very unique settings and bands.

The bands in these slightly older styles of engagement rings tend to be different from modern band styles. The shank or back part of the band is often very small and round while the front is flatter, raised and wider. On many of the rings in vintage collection the band is often yellow gold and the settings or mounts in white gold. Not only does this add detail but it also collects light and focuses it in on the diamonds.

The stones in vintage engagement rings tend to be somewhat smaller than are seen in many of the new diamond engagement rings however they are also more of the moderately large stones. Often other gems are also combined with diamonds in beautiful settings that highlight both the diamond as well as the surrounding gems. 

A popular cut in vintage engagement rings as well as in antique diamond rings is the cushion cut. Cushion cut engagement rings have a beautiful, soft internal sparkle and fire and are ideal to stand alone on a simple band. The cut also works well with interlocking and curved wedding band and engagement ring sets. 

Historically the name for cushion cut diamonds was candlelight diamonds. This is because lighting was from candles and the beautiful cut of the diamond gives off a soft, firely glow in any type of direct or diffuse light. Typically shapes for the cushion cut diamonds include oval to rectangular with rounded or blunted corners.

Open, long facets on many of the diamonds on older engagement rings give a unique light reflection to the interior. The colors are still vibrant and there is fire, it is just less sharp. Many people see these types of cuts as very romantic looking and may be enhanced on the band with smaller diamonds. 

Vintage engagement rings featuring some of the detailed filigree and metal work from these earlier times are a great option for a classic yet unusual style. Browsing through estate jewelry sales for rings or purchasing a new creation of a modern classic are both great options for finding these styles of engagement rings.

Subscribe to our feed

Most of the engagement rings from these time periods had very distinctive qualities that uniquely categorize the rings as being vintage. Typically the rings included both yellow and white gold combinations on the bands, however platinum was and is also used in creating some very unique settings and bands.

The bands in these slightly older styles of engagement rings tend to be different from modern band styles. The shank or back part of the band is often very small and round while the front is flatter, raised and wider. On many of the rings in vintage collection the band is often yellow gold and the settings or mounts in white gold. Not only does this add detail but it also collects light and focuses it in on the diamonds.

Rather than completely all small diamonds or one large diamond, vintage rings tend to use more medium to smaller sized diamonds to create the sparkle and shine. Other precious and semi-precious stones are common in settings for these types of engagement rings. 

A popular cut in vintage engagement rings as well as in antique diamond rings is the cushion cut. Cushion cut engagement rings have a beautiful, soft internal sparkle and fire and are ideal to stand alone on a simple band. The cut also works well with interlocking and curved wedding band and engagement ring sets. 

Historically the name for cushion cut diamonds was candlelight diamonds. This is because lighting was from candles and the beautiful cut of the diamond gives off a soft, firely glow in any type of direct or diffuse light. Typically shapes for the cushion cut diamonds include oval to rectangular with rounded or blunted corners.

Cushion cut diamonds and the reproductions of the vintage style of engagement rings tend to use the same open facet styles. This means that the diamonds stay true to their historic cut, softly and romantically reflecting gentle light. To add more focus on these types of diamonds small pave diamonds are often set close to the larger central diamond. 

Vintage engagement rings featuring some of the detailed filigree and metal work from these earlier times are a great option for a classic yet unusual style. Browsing through estate jewelry sales for rings or purchasing a new creation of a modern classic are both great options for finding these styles of engagement rings.

Subscribe to our feed

One of the most obvious ways in which engagement rings can differ with regards to classic or modern styles is in the cut of the diamond or diamonds on the ring itself. Emerald cuts, princess cuts and even the classic round solitaire continue to be in demand, however newer band designs can really change the rings overall appearance. Even the relatively uncommon cushion cut is much more readily available.

For a new shape or cut that isn’t common, look towards geometric shapes such as the triangle. Ideal as a solitaire style, the trilliant shape can be a blunted or very sharp triangle, largely depending on the diamond cutter as well as the natural shape of the stone. Other new shapes include flowers and hearts, ideal as central stones or solitaires .

However, many people are just as interesting in returning to the more tried and true styles of engagement rings. Antique engagement rings may be literally estate type jewelry, or they can be modern recreations of old classics.  Deciding if a modern or antique style is best is really related to personal taste, but it is important to take a look.

Combining both modern and antique or sticking with one or the other is largely up to the individual, but either option is definitely worth considering. Often the term antique tends to be confused with simple. In reality some of the antique jewelry, especially when it comes to art deco style engagement rings, is going to be anything but plain or simple. This elaborate design style often includes free form types or rings as well as lots of additional stones and colors.

Raising the diamond off the band of the ring is common in most types of the classic engagement rings. Unlike modern styles filigree, designs including flowers or scrolling types of designs were used to add to the design to the raised section. This detail work as often completed using white gold, platinum or yellow gold.

To wear as a matching set or as a stand alone option for wedding rings, Victorian style rings are really back in style. These rings are classic in their designs and feature lots of options as engagement rings or combination wedding and engagement rings all in one.

Older, classic and tried and true styles of engagement rings are often the inspiration for new designs and styles. Determining if you want to modern or classic with your choices for engagement rings is really up to you, but looking at different styles is important before you make the final decision.

Subscribe to our feed

Most anniversary or eternity rings are given as gifts by the husband to the wife and are worn as a third ring with the engagement and wedding rings.  Since there are so many different styles, most wedding ring sets will match one or more anniversary rings as well.  

Anniversary rings and eternity rings are meant to be a symbol of the ongoing love between the couple. They are often rather understated when compared to elaborate engagement rings. They are, however, often more ornate than wedding bands, especially if the bands are very simple in their design.

One of the more popular options in settings for eternity or anniversary rings is the channel setting. This can be either fully done in smaller diamonds or diamonds can be alternated with other precious or semi-precious stones.  The channel holds the gems in place without obvious mountings, providing brilliant color through the ring and the diamonds.

Another option for eternity rings to be worn with either simple or detailed wedding rings is the pave setting style. These rings are designed to allow the diamond chips to fill in part or the entire ring, making it truly sparkle and shine.

For a setting that is flush with the surface of the wedding rings or anniversary bands the bezel style is always popular. Often the diamonds, which are slightly larger in size, are placed in a pattern around the band. Each diamond catches and reflects light for a beautiful display. 

Princess cut diamonds and emerald cut diamonds are popular in anniversary bands and rings. Since these cuts tend to sparkle and reflect light, they are ideal for the more streamlined bands. Choosing a cut is the same as the diamonds in the wedding rings is not always essential, but they should match and look like a set.

Although some wedding rings will be sold in sets that easily match with anniversary or eternity bands, it isn’t impossible to find a ring that will match virtually any wedding rings. Complimenting bands rather than exact matches are striking looking and easy to match with the help of a jeweler, even if they are more unique in style or type.

Subscribe to our feed

Typically anniversary and eternity rings are worn with the wedding rings and like engagement rings are traditionally only worn by women. There are several popular styles of anniversary bands or eternity rings, with almost as many options or styles as you would expect with engagement and wedding rings.  

Anniversary rings and eternity rings are meant to be a symbol of the ongoing love between the couple. They are often rather understated when compared to elaborate engagement rings. They are, however, often more ornate than wedding bands, especially if the bands are very simple in their design.

Since these rings can be worn over or on top of the engagement  and wedding rings they tend to have inset diamonds rather than diamonds in raised settings. Channel setting are ideal for these rings since they allow maximum light reflection while keeping the stones flush with the surface of the ring. Most channel style rings will be made of platinum, white gold or yellow gold. Gemstones range from diamonds to rubies, emeralds and sapphires

Another option for eternity rings to be worn with either simple or detailed wedding rings is the pave setting style. These rings are designed to allow the diamond chips to fill in part or the entire ring, making it truly sparkle and shine.

Bezel sets are beautiful and timeless, plus they also provide very modern looking and classic styles. In these styles individual diamonds are set flush with the band, either individually spaced or within a specific pattern.  

Princess cut diamonds and emerald cut diamonds are popular in anniversary bands and rings. Since these cuts tend to sparkle and reflect light, they are ideal for the more streamlined bands. Choosing a cut is the same as the diamonds in the wedding rings is not always essential, but they should match and look like a set.

Although some wedding rings will be sold in sets that easily match with anniversary or eternity bands, it isn’t impossible to find a ring that will match virtually any wedding rings. Complimenting bands rather than exact matches are striking looking and easy to match with the help of a jeweler, even if they are more unique in style or type.

Subscribe to our feed

One of the most obvious ways in which engagement rings can differ with regards to classic or modern styles is in the cut of the diamond or diamonds on the ring itself. Emerald cuts, princess cuts and even the classic round solitaire continue to be in demand, however newer band designs can really change the rings overall appearance. Even the relatively uncommon cushion cut is much more readily available.

New styles of cuts including a triangular cut known as a trilliant diamond shape. This diamond features all the shine and fire of the traditional cuts plus the unique shape that adds to any of the more modern styles of engagement rings. New cuts including diamonds in the shape of hearts, flowers and even more free-form type diamonds are also becoming more common .

However, many people are just as interesting in returning to the more tried and true styles of engagement rings. Antique engagement rings may be literally estate type jewelry, or they can be modern recreations of old classics.  Deciding if a modern or antique style is best is really related to personal taste, but it is important to take a look.

Combining both modern and antique or sticking with one or the other is largely up to the individual, but either option is definitely worth considering. Often the term antique tends to be confused with simple. In reality some of the antique jewelry, especially when it comes to art deco style engagement rings, is going to be anything but plain or simple. This elaborate design style often includes free form types or rings as well as lots of additional stones and colors.

Many of the new versions of older, antique style rings include raised diamonds and bands on the front part of the ring. Gold, silver or platinum can be used to add details such as filigree, flowers and intricate designs along the sides of the raised areas of the ring.

A new trend in rings is to combine engagement rings and wedding rings, rather than wearing two separate rings. Victorian style engagement rings are a great option for this style, but they can also be paired with a classic wedding band for a set.

Sticking with traditional engagement rings and styles and adding new touches is a great way to customize and modernize a traditional favorite. Of course there is nothing wrong with keeping engagement rings from the past exactly as they were originally designed as either way these rings are sure to be treasured.

Subscribe to our feed