An exclusive engagement ring

Engagement ring


At the end of the year, the junior manager of a medium-sized retail company commissioned me to create a very special gem: an exclusive engagement ring with three large Diamonds.

Before Christmas, he wanted to give his girlfriend an unforgettable gift and finally ask for her hand in marriage.

The customer himself provided the three diamonds, or rather brilliants, in excellent quality. The central diamond was even cut in the shape of a heart.

platinum engagement ring with diamonds


It was already clear what exquisite taste my client would bring to this project right from the start.

The engagement ring should be made entirely of platinum and the diamonds should be appropriately presented in a subtle claw setting.

Just in time for Christmas, the time had finally come: My visibly satisfied customer was able to personally in my studio and from now on look forward to the upcoming festival of love in a relaxed manner but with an extra portion of heart palpitations...


The History of the Engagement Ring: Symbol of Love and Connection

The engagement ring is one of the most well-known symbols of love, devotion and the promise of a life together. Its roots reach far back into history and are linked to cultural, social and economic developments. Over the centuries, the meaning and design of the engagement ring has constantly changed. Let's take a look at the fascinating history of this piece of jewelry and its role in different cultures and eras:


origin in antiquity

The tradition of the engagement ring has its origins in ancient times. The ancient Egyptians already used rings as a symbol of eternity. They believed that a ring without a beginning or end represented infinity, which made it a fitting symbol for love and partnership. The ring was often made from woven plants or leather and worn on the ring finger, as it was believed that a vein, the so-called "Amoris vein“, leads directly from this finger to the heart.

In the Roman Empire, the tradition of the engagement ring was further developed. Romans gave their partners a ring made of iron, which symbolized their commitment and loyalty. This "Anulus PronubusThe rings called "marriage rings" were often plain, later they were replaced by gold rings that reflected the social status of the couple. Interestingly, these rings were not only considered a sign of love, but also a legal symbol of a marriage contract.


The Influence of Christianity in the Middle Ages

In the Middle Ages, the engagement ring gained new meaning through Christianity. The church played a crucial role in shaping wedding rituals, and the ring became an integral part of the ceremonies. It was also during this period that the custom of using precious metals such as gold or silver for engagement rings began.

One of the earliest mentions of an engagement ring in a Christian context dates back to the year 850, when Pope Nicholas I. explained that a gold ring symbolized a man's intention to support his wife financially. Gold engagement rings, however, were reserved for the upper classes; less wealthy couples often chose simpler materials.


The Diamond Comes Into Play: The Renaissance

The history of the modern diamond engagement ring begins in the RenaissanceThe first documented diamond engagement ring was made in 1477 by Archduke Maximilian of Austria his fiancée Mary of Burgundy This ring set a new trend among European nobles. At that time, diamonds were considered a symbol of purity and eternity, which made them particularly suitable for an engagement ring. However, the high price of diamonds meant that this tradition was initially reserved only for the wealthiest classes.


The Engagement Ring in the Victorian Era

In the 19th century, during the Victorian era, a new love of individuality and romance developed, which also influenced the design of engagement rings. It was the time when detailed and ornate designs emerged. Engagement rings were often decorated with other gemstones, pearls or engravings that conveyed personal messages. Natural motifs such as flowers or hearts were also popular.

Another turning point was the discovery of large diamond deposits in South Africa in the 1870s. This made diamonds more affordable and they began to play a larger role in jewelry design.


The Diamond Ring Boom in the 20th Century

The engagement ring as we know it today was shaped primarily in the 20th century. A key role was played by the advertising campaign “A Diamond is Forever” by De Beers, a world-leading diamond company, launched in 1947. This campaign created the modern notion that a diamond engagement ring was the only true choice. The slogan associated the diamond with eternity and undying love - an image that endures to this day.

The norm that an engagement ring should cost about two months' salary was also popularized by the diamond industry. This marketing strategy made the engagement ring a universal symbol of love and a must-have for couples around the world.


Modern developments and diversity

Nowadays, engagement rings are available in every imaginable design, material and price range. While diamonds continue to dominate, many couples are increasingly opting for alternative gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds or moissanites. Ethical considerations are also playing an increasingly important role: sustainably mined or laboratory-produced gemstones as well as recycled precious metals are increasingly in demand.

The meaning of the engagement ring has also expanded. In many cultures, it is no longer just a symbol of the impending marriage, but also an expression of the couple's individual personality and shared lifestyle.


Conclusion

The history of the engagement ring is a reflection of the cultural, social and economic developments of humanity. From the simple iron ring of the Romans to the magnificent diamond creations of the Renaissance to modern, sustainable designs, this piece of jewelry has reinvented itself time and again. But despite all the changes, the engagement ring remains a timeless symbol of love and the promise of creating a shared future.