The History of Engagement Rings

The first recorded instance of a Diamond Engagement Ring was in 1477, with the custom of gifting a ring (in a variety of forms) to express one's love and devotion to another extending back many centuries.

One of the earliest cultures to adopt the custom of giving a betrothal ring—typically made of braided reeds or hemp—was the ancient Egyptians. 

Ancient Romans and Greeks both had their own traditions about Engagement Rings. Iron Engagement Rings were traditionally given as a sign of fidelity and power by the Greeks. In contrast, the Romans would present a gold Engagement Ring as a sign of prestige and money.

Diamond Engagement Rings didn't become a popular choice until the 15th century. The custom started when Mary of Burgundy received a diamond Engagement Ring from Archduke Maximilian of Austria as a declaration of his love for her. From there, the tradition of gifting Diamond Engagement Rings spread over all of Europe before being embraced by the rest of the world.

Giving an Engagement Ring is a very popular custom today and it can take many different shapes. While rubies and sapphires are also popular choices for Engagement Rings, diamonds are still the most popular. Engagement Rings can be simple and classic or more extravagant and distinctive, with a wide range in between.

As you can see, Engagement Rings have a rich and lengthy history that has origins in prehistoric cultures. Over the years, the custom of gifting a ring as a sign of love and commitment has changed, and today there are countless possibilities to fit every taste and price range.