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Diamond Engagement Rings

Its remarkable to think that the tradition of giving diamond engagement rings dates as far back as the late 15th century when diamonds were given as tokens of betrothal to aristocratic Europeans.

Of course the exchanging of diamonds wasn’t something that the vast majority of people could afford to do at that time but that the tradition began isn’t surprising as diamonds have always been one of the most sought after gems.

From pre-Biblical times the diamond has always been associated with success and been coveted because of its appearance, perceived mystical powers and strength.

In fact the word ‘diamond’ comes from the Greek word ‘adamas’ which literally means the ‘unconquerable’.

By the 18th century diamonds were becoming slightly easier to acquire thanks to deposits of the gem being discovered in South America.

diamond engagement ring

Gold-smiths of the time began experimenting with new techniques including the settings of the stone and polishing. They also began to use clusters of diamonds in their work including coloured centre-stones.

Like many other things during the 19th century diamonds enjoyed greater support because they enjoyed the patronage of Queen Victoria who spent thousands of pounds on her gem collection.

And good old Queen Bess wasn’t above accepting freebies either including a gift of the 105 carat Koh-i-Noor diamond which was then the largest in the world.

Heading into more modern times there were two factors that made diamond engagement rings even more popular and affordable for more people.

The first was the increasing supply of diamonds which meant they became more accessible to more people as their cost was lowered but the second factor was the new ‘Tiffany’ mount.

The new Tiffany mount was invented by the celebrated New York jeweller and featured a single (solitaire) diamond on an open mount of minute prongs.

Previously much of the stone had been concealed by the mount but this new setting showed the whole beauty of the diamond. Suddenly people couldn’t get enough of this new style of ring and Mr Tiffany’s fame (and fortune) was assured!

And, of course, solitaire rings, are still the most popular design of betrothal ring with modern designers producing some incredible designs.