Find out How Diamond Bridal Rings Became a Tradition?
Diamond bridal rings have been a symbol of love and commitment for decades. Whether it’s a classic solitaire or an antique piece, this jewel gift from the depths of the earth is a commitment symbol that is common used in a relationship. But where and when did this custom arise? And why are diamonds the permanent gemstone for engagement and wedding rings? We investigate the hidden history of diamond bridal rings. So keep scrolling to reveal the truth.
Go back to the beginning.
We must thank the ancient Egyptians for the earliest known exchange of bridal rings. Using materials such as hemp or reed, the ancient Egyptians formed a small circle – an endless ring – as a symbol of eternal love. They believe that the fourth finger contains blood vessels leading directly to the heart. Hence, placing a bridal ring on this finger is understood to strengthen love and bonds between partners. Research shows that later this tradition continued by the ancient Romans. Married women wear rings on a small finger to represent their relationship with their husbands.
First diamond bridal ring
How about initial engagement rings after we talked about diamond wedding rings? The first well-documented reference to an engagement ring dates from the 9th century in a letter from Pope Nicholas I to Boris I. However, the earliest known diamond engagement ring is seen in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria became engaged to Maria of Burgundy. A piece of metal with small diamond strips arranged in the shape of the letter M. This lavish ring was most likely given to Mary to show herself to others – as a striking sign of wealth and not as a loving gift. However, traditional diamond bridal ring expenditures evolved from there.
Rings for centuries
Later, during the Victorian era, bridal rings were made in various designs with diamonds, other gemstones, and precious metals. At the time, flowers were the most popular form of bridal rings’ known as “congratulatory rings.” Mixing diamonds with other valuable ornaments was a tradition in the Edwardian era. At that time attention, to detail and craftsmanship precision was greatly enhanced.
Diamonds are forever
But; where did the diamond bridal rings we know come from today? It was a brilliant marketing campaign in the 1930s. The well-known mining company De Beers has unearthed excavations in Africa and uncovered a large number of undiscovered diamonds. This sudden surge in availability destroyed the vanity and exclusivity of the diamond industry. To reverse the drop in sales, De Beers had to do something once and for all to change people’s perceptions. So began a massive campaign linking diamonds with eternal love and endless happiness.
A diamond engagement ring is a best and most traditional way to show devotion to your partner. The marketing results are undeniable – a 50% increase in diamond sales in just three years. Do the phrase diamonds forever rings the bell or not? It was introduced to the public initially in 1947 during another De Beers marketing campaign which increased its sales even further.
While the origins of diamond bridal rings are alluring, their timeless appeal is undeniable. Whether it is the diamond’s resilience, its brilliance, or simply its beauty, hardly anything will ever match its symbolic value.
Are you ready to confess your love to your soul mate? Visit our jewelry site alexandersparks.com where you can find modern and antique diamond rings in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. Whether you’re looking to buy or sell a diamond ring, it’s easy to do at Alexander Sparks.
Nellie Ponds is a fashion blogger with an eye for style. She has her own blog where she writes about the latest in fashion and trends, as well as providing tips on how to dress your best while still being practical. Her blog’s readership is steadily growing, but she remains humble.
