Planning a Christmas proposal- we ask people what they really want and shut down the supposed rules of engagement.
When it comes to a proposal, the first thing on your mind is the engagement ring. But where did this tradition come from, and how has it morphed over the years? We wanted to share with you the journey of the engagement ring from its conception to its place in a wedding proposal today and shut down the supposed rules of engagement.
Anthropologists believe that the tradition of giving engagement rings dates back to the Roman times where wives wore rings attached to keys indicating their husband's ownership.
In 1477 the first diamond engagement ring was commissioned by an Austrian Arch Duke for his betrothed. It was the Victorians who took and ran with the idea, popularising ornate engagement rings.
In 1477 the first diamond engagement ring was commissioned by an Austrian Arch Duke for his betrothed. It was the Victorians who took and ran with the idea, popularising ornate engagement rings.
It wasn't long before diamonds, and other gemstones found themselves adorning the fingers of many women in high society set in elaborate flower shapes, they were known as posey rings. It was in 1947 when De Beers launched its now-famous slogan 'A diamond is forever' and from this moment on engagement ring sales rocketed. It is the implied durability of a diamond that sparks the idea in us that marriage is forever. It is its purity and sparkle that captures our hearts.
Now in 2019, the choices are endless. There are many types of diamonds and cuts to consider when choosing a ring. If you ask friends who have popped the question, I can bet some will have a theory on how much you're meant to spend too!
If we pull it back to the importance of the symbol, then the precious metal ring itself is the never-ending circle you give your love as a promise to continue your journey on earth together. Adding the diamond was a truly inspired marketing ploy excellently executed by Debeers. But let's be honest who doesn't love a bit of sparkle. However, with the abundance of gems and colour options out there, you can truly create something unique for your loved one and put a little of their personality into any choice you make. A diamond may be forever, but it doesn't have to be the centrepiece of the engagement ring.
The biggest myth I have encountered when speaking to clients is this idea there is an amount you should spend! Truly it is the promise that is the centre of the proposal, and the ring should not be causing you financial pain at the start of this journey together. You can always buy something beautiful to fit your budget. Bespoke doesn't have to be seen as being out of your price range. It is worth asking the question to see if you can buy your one love something a little more unique than an off the shelf ring from a large jewellery company. My rules of engagement are simple
Buy fairtrade,
Buy it because you love it for them not because it is what you think you're meant to buy.
Try and get their ring size!
A x
Catkin Droplet Emerald Ring.
Single Dotty Diamond Solitaire.