The History of Engagement Rings
An Ancient Tradition Since Ancient Rome
The tradition of proposing marriage with a ring dates back to ancient Rome . Couples exchanged simple metal rings , with the iron ring symbolizing commitment . They believed that the ring finger of the left hand was connected to the heart . In public, the bride wore a gold ring, while at home, she wore an iron ring.
The Emergence of the Solitaire Ring and the Fashion for Diamonds
The solitaire ring appeared in the 15th century , when Archduke Maximilian of Habsburg offered a diamond ring to his fiancée, Mary of Burgundy , in 1477. He chose diamonds for their rarity and durability , thus starting a fashion among wealthy couples to use precious stones for engagement rings , establishing the diamond ring as a symbol of fidelity .
The Democratization of Diamonds and the Impact of De Beers
In the mid- 19th century , the discovery of diamonds in South Africa democratized their use, making them popular across all social classes. Around 1940 , De Beers ' " A diamond is forever " campaign solidified the diamond solitaire ring as the standard for marriage proposals .
De Beers advised spending the equivalent of two months' salary on engagement rings, which led to a dramatic increase in diamond sales in the United States, from $23 million in 1939 to $2.1 billion in 1979.
Celebrities and their Iconic Rings
Throughout history, celebrities have consistently unveiled stunning engagement rings adorned with diamonds, striking gemstones , or unique designs . Today, the solitaire ring remains a timeless choice to symbolize commitment , making it an iconic piece that will continue to captivate future generations.
Grace Kelly and the Monaco Ring
In April 1955 , Grace Kelly met Prince Rainier of Monaco in Cannes, which led to their engagement. Initially wearing a classic Cartier ring, Grace wanted a more substantial one for her role in " High Society " (1956).
Prince Rainier then commissioned a $4 million Cartier ring with an emerald-cut diamond of nearly 10.5 carats , now valued at $40 million , and still in the Grimaldi family collection.
Jackie Kennedy and the Creation of Van Cleef & Arpels
In 1953 , John F. Kennedy commissioned a distinctive engagement ring from Van Cleef & Arpels for Jackie Kennedy. Featuring a 2.88 carat emerald-cut diamond and a 2.84 carat emerald surrounded by diamonds, Jackie later modified it in 1961 by adding marquise-cut diamonds in an Art Deco style .
This iconic ring is now part of the collection of the Kennedy Presidential Library in Boston.
Elizabeth Taylor and the Krupp Diamond
Elizabeth Taylor 's jewelry collection tells a love story, highlighted by her famous ring—the Elizabeth Taylor diamond , formerly known as the Krupp diamond. Gifted by Richard Burton in 1968, this 33-carat Asscher -cut diamond became a personal treasure that she often wore as a wedding band .
Sold for $8.8 million at Christie’s , it remains an enduring symbol of romance .
Kate Middleton and Lady Diana's Legacy
Probably the most iconic engagement ring in history is the one Prince William gave to Kate Middleton in 2010. Previously worn by Princess Diana , it had been chosen by her for her engagement to Prince Charles in February 1981, from a selection by the royal jeweller Garrard .
This famous ring is adorned with a 12-carat oval Ceylon sapphire , surrounded by 14 solitaire diamonds set in 18-carat white gold .
