Proposing with engagement rings came from the customaries of ancient Egyptians, Romans and Greeks. The ancient Egyptians believed that circles meant eternity, while it symbolised possession and love for the ancient Romans. The ancient Greeks also had the same symbolism.
Straight to the Heart
During ancient times, people believed that a vein in the fourth finger of the left hand runs to the heart, which is called the vena moris or “vein of love”. Thus, this is where the tradition of putting engagement and weddings rings on the left hand’s fourth finger or the “ring finger”.
Brief History of Engagement Rings
In 1477, Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed with the first diamond engagement ring to Mary of Burgundy. The ring was gold with diamonds that spelt out “M”.
In 1872, diamonds found in South Africa marked the beginning of an increase in the supply of the said stone. But back then, this was more favoured by the nobles and aristocrats.
The famous slogan, “A diamond is forever”, was popularised by De Beers Mining Company in 1938. It was a campaign which introduced diamond engagement rings and convinced that diamonds can also be affordable.
What Kind Should You Get?
There are different kinds of engagement rings you can choose from. You can opt for the following: halo, vintage, rose gold, sapphire, or diamond engagement rings. Other questions also include which style, setting and metal (may it be gold, silver, platinum or other alternatives) to use.
When buying diamond engagement rings, for example, people typically look at the 4C’s: the cut, colour, clarity, and carat. The cut is an arrangement of the stone. Colour, however, is based on the yellowness and colourlessness. Clarity and carat are the internal and outer characteristics and the weight of the diamond, respectively.
Since not everyone is into diamond, you may use other gemstones for the engagement ring you want. If you are after more meaningful, you can choose your loved one’s birthstone instead.
To know more about what kind of ring should you get for your partner, you can read our post on how to choose the right engagement ring here.
Which Finger Should You Put the Ring On?
If you’re about to ask the big question, you may be wondering where you should put the engagement ring to your partner. As mentioned above, since it is believed that the vein of love is on the ring finger, people usually wear it there. However, in some countries such as Russia, Norway and India, people put it on their right hands.
On the other hand, each of the couple wears an engagement ring in Chile. They put it in their right hands during engagement and slips it on their left hands once they’re married.
At the end of the day, it would depend on the tradition or culture where you are from and how comfortable it is for you to wear. Engagement rings are, after all, a symbol of love and commitment to your loved one.
Are you ready to buy the perfect engagement ring?
We can help you create the engagement ring that your partner will love. Our customised engagement rings cater to whatever your ideas, designs, deadlines and budgets are. Book an appointment with us today.