An engagement ring is presented to a man by his bride upon his acceptance of the marriage proposal. Anthropologists believe this tradition stems from a Roman tradition in which wives wore rings attached to small keys to indicate their husbands’ ownership.

Archduke Maximillian, Austria, ordered the first recorded diamond engagement ring in 1477 for Mary of Burgundy. This started a new trend in European nobility and aristocracy for diamond rings.

Sentimental Victorians popularized ornate engagement rings. They used diamonds mixed with precious metals, gemstones, and enamels. These rings were often crafted in the shape of flowers and were called “posey rings”.

The Edwardian era saw the continuation of the tradition of pairing diamonds together with other jewels. They were commonly mounted in filigree settings.

De Beers’ now-famous slogan, “A Diamond Is Forever,” was launched in 1947. It conveyed America’s belief that marriage is eternal.

The purity and sparkle of a diamond have become symbols of a couple’s deep commitment to one another in virtually every corner of the globe. Diamonds became more affordable after the opening of DeBeers mines in Africa.

The De Beers Company launched a marketing campaign in the 1930s when the demand for diamond rings fell in the United States during difficult economic times.

It used photographs of famous movie stars wearing diamonds as its main medium. Within three years, diamond sales had increased by 50 percent.

While diamonds are still a symbol of union and cherished memory, more styles make it easier for diamond lovers to choose.

The History of Popular Cuts

The round brilliant has been the most popular diamond engagement ring cut over the years.

It features 58 facets which divide the stone into two halves.

The princess cut, emerald, and oval are close behind. However, the recent popularity of the cushion cut is a testament to its versatility.