Tradition and Custom of Engagement Rings

The history of giving engagement rings goes back centuries to every continent in the world.

Who and where started the tradition of engagement rings can’t be easily answered or found, however it is fact that as far back as 2,500BC Egyptians have been found with rings of silver or gold on the fourth finger of the left hand. This was commonly a very simple single wire that was thought to connect the wearer to vena amoris, meaning "vein of love" as it was thought that the vein from this finger lead directly to the heart.

During the time of Gaius Plinius Secundus, better known as Pliny the Elder (23Ad – 79AD), the groom is to give the bride a gold ring followed by an iron ring that was used to signify a legally binding agreement of ownership to the groom.

Over the centuries and localities in the world, the engagement ring generally evolved into a tradition and custom that nearly all brides-to-be follow – a lovely ring, usually a diamond and now commonly worn on the left hand.

The most common engagement ring today would have to be the diamond solitaire ring, however it doesn’t always have to be.

Just as popular for an engagement ring is the cluster ring with a coloured gemstone in the centre such as a ruby or sapphire surrounded by diamonds. This of course can include having a diamond in the centre.

This design received a resurgence in popularity with the Royal Wedding of Princess Catherine Middleton and Prince William.

With the beauty and variety of antique rings, antique engagement rings have been so popular once again.

One of the most popular eras for an antique engagement ring would have to be the Art Deco period of the 1920’s that created some wonderful geometric designs often made in platinum and with very fine and detailed work in the ring.

One of the main appeals and advantages of buying an antique ring is the unique design and the thought that your ring is truly a one of a kind.

There are 2 big misconceptions about antique engagement rings. First that they cost more than a new ring. Of course a large diamond in an antique engagement ring will cost more than a smaller lower quality diamond in a modern counterpart, it is very easy to buy a hand made antique diamond ring in 18ct gold for well less than $5,000.

Secondly some people think that you cannot wear an antique engagement ring all the time. While you should make sure that the ring is strong and all the stones safe and secure, for the most part, antique engagement rings can be worn on a daily basis.

The styles of engagement rings have changed over the years, and if you are looking for an antique engagement ring this can give you such a diverse and broad range of varieties to fit any budget.

Kalmarantiques - About Author:
Kalmar Antiques is Sydney, Australia based Antique Jewellery & Watches Dealer. They have antique collection of Engagement Rings, art deco rings and many more.

Visit official site: kalmarantiques.com.au or call on 02 9264 3663 for more information on modern/ Antique Engagement Rings collection.

Article Source:
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