(This column first appeared in the October print edition of the Hendersonian.)
You may know something about the history of the engagement ring, but I have 10 fascinating facts that might surprise you!
1. Engagement Rings Are Thousands of Years Old
The idea of using a ring in connection with marriage goes back to ancient civilizations. The ancient Romans used rings during the betrothal process, when couples made a formal commitment to marry.
2. The First Famous Diamond Betrothal Ring Was Royal
In 1477, Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond-set ring when he proposed marriage. It is one of the earliest well-documented examples of a diamond used in a European royal betrothal.
3. Diamonds Weren’t Always the Favorite
For much of history, engagement and betrothal rings came in many forms. Sapphires, rubies, emeralds, pearls, colored glass, and even simple metal rings have all been used. The diamond didn’t become the overwhelmingly dominant choice in the United States until the 20th century.
4. The “Vein of Love” Is a Romantic Myth
You’ve probably heard that the fourth finger of the left hand contains a vein that runs directly to the heart. It’s called the vena amoris, or “vein of love.” Lovely thought? Absolutely! Anatomically accurate? No.
5. Victorian Couples Loved Secret Messages
During the Georgian and Victorian eras, some jewelry was designed to communicate secret messages. One technique used gemstones whose first letters spelled a word. For example, certain gemstone combinations could spell words such as “DEAREST.” Imagine giving someone a ring that secretly says “I love you” without actually saying a word!
6. The Ring Finger Isn’t the Same Everywhere
The left-hand ring finger is traditional in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom. But in some countries and cultures, wedding or engagement rings are traditionally worn on the right hand. So if you see someone wearing a ring on the “other” hand, or another finger, don’t assume they’re doing it wrong. They may simply be following their own tradition!
7. “A Diamond Is Forever” Is an Advertising Slogan
The famous phrase “A Diamond Is Forever” was created in 1947 by advertising copywriter Frances Gerety. It became one of the most recognizable advertising slogans ever created. It helped connect diamonds to everlasting love and commitment.
8. The Engagement Ring Wasn’t Always About Romance
Early rings associated with betrothal could represent agreements between families, property arrangements, social status, or a formal commitment to marry. The modern idea of the engagement ring is a deeply personal romantic symbol that has developed over time.
9. You Don’t Have to Have a Diamond
Today, couples have more choices than ever. A ring might feature a sapphire, emerald, ruby, pearl, colored gemstone, lab-grown diamond, or no gemstone at all. Some couples choose antique rings. Some use family heirlooms. And some design something completely original. The best ring is ultimately the one that means something to the one wearing it.
10. The Most Important Part Isn’t the Ring
After thousands of years, the engagement ring has become a beautiful symbol of a promise. But remember, the ring isn’t the commitment. It’s a symbol of the commitment between the giver and the recipient.
A ring can be worth thousands of dollars—or it can be a treasured family ring that cost very little. What makes it priceless is the story behind it. My love note: The next time you look at an engagement ring, remember that you’re looking at a tiny piece of history—and perhaps the beginning of one of the most important stories in someone’s life.
Pem Pfisterer Clark has been hosting the nationally syndicated radio show “Wedding Planning With Pem” for over 20 years. The show provides valuable advice, insider tips, etiquette and money-saving ideas to listeners across the country. Bill Stevens Stark is the executive producer of the show.
