History of the Engagement Ring

In days past, when a gentleman wanted to marry a particular lady, it was tradition that he give the family of his chosen one a symbol of his desire to marry her - something of great value. If the woman accepted his gift, it signified their pledge to marry and it was considered a legally binding transaction. In ancient times, the betrothal gift was of a more practical nature, usually livestock, fabrics, herbs and spices...even land. The Greeks are credited with beginning the tradition of the betrothal (or engagement) ring. Here, the bridegroom-to-be presented a ring to his intended as a promise of marriage.

Roman Wedding Ring Symbolism
Early Roman engagement rings were simple bands with a carved key. There are two theories surrounding this. The more romantic theory holds that the key was to unlock the heart of her husband. The more practical version was that the key was representative of the wife's ownership of her husband's estate; for, when a Roman woman married, she received half of her husband's wealth.

The Pope Makes Engagement Rings A Requirement
In 860 A.D., Pope Nicholas I ordained that an engagement ring was a requirement as a statement of nuptial intent. He insisted that they be made of gold to show financial sacrifice on the part of the prospective husband.

The Popularity of Silver Rings in Renaissance Italy
In Renaissance Italy, silver became a popular metal for wedding and engagement rings. These rings were often very ornate and inlaid with Niello, a method of decorating metal objects with engraving techniques. An alloy of silver, copper, lead and sulfur was rubbed into an engraved pattern on silver or gold and then fired. Darkened areas remained in the crevices after the object was polished.

Precious Gem Stones Used in Engagement Rings
Elaborate engagement rings of rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and other precious gems became commonplace among the wealthy. Many rings would feature a group of stones to spell out a sentimental word. For example, if one wanted to spell out LOVE on his ring, he would use Lapis Lazuli, Opal, Verde Antique and Emerald. Some husbands-to-be would have a ring fashioned featuring his and his fiancée's birthstones. Since the color blue symbolized purity and fidelity, Sapphire engagement rings were quite popular, especially during the Victorian era.

Diamonds Become Part of the Tradition
The tradition of giving a diamond engagement ring began in 1477 with the Archduke Maximillian of Austria, who presented his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy, with a simple gold band with a diamond. Since diamonds are the hardest, natural substance in nature, it was considered an appropriate symbol of enduring love. From that time forward, the royal tradition of giving a diamond engagement ring began to be embraced by people around the world.

Article By The American Wedding