In western culture, there is perhaps no item as small as the Engagement Rings that carries as much importance. They symbolize the promise of eternal love, but their price tag can be staggering. They are probably the most meaningful pieces of jewelry most women will ever own, and that is the result of centuries of tradition. Today, engagement rings come in many different styles, and their popularity can be greatly influenced by celebrities and pop culture.
The custom of using a ring to represent betrothal goes all the way back to ancient times. It probably originated in Egypt and then spread to Rome, where iron was the material of choice, as it symbolized the strength of the marriage, as well as its longevity. However, metal bands eventually became unpopular as a symbol of marriage. They weren't brought back into prominence until the late ninth century, when Pope Nicholas I ordered that every man should seal his betrothal with a gold band to show that he could provide for his bride to be.
Several hundred years later, Pope Innocent III decreed that other materials besides gold could be used to make these rings, making way for the popular diamond solitaire design that is considered classic today. A ring of this type was first given in 1477 by the Archduke Maximilian of Austria to his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy. Diamonds became popular because at the time, they were believed to have mystical powers where love was concerned, and in addition, their toughness and beauty well represented the couple's hope for a happy and glorious marriage. While diamonds were once very rare, they have become more accessible in recent centuries, making them available to the masses.
For those people who decide that diamonds aren't for them, however, there are still plenty of other options. It's not uncommon these days to see colored diamonds or other gemstones on top of a ring. This practice originated with the aristocracy hundreds of years ago. Colored jewels can symbolize a variety of things, and they're also very beautiful, making them a perfect choice for many brides-to-be.
A multitude of other materials have also been employed to craft betrothal rings. Long ago, people might have used wood or leather to create them. The Puritans, some of the first people to immigrate to America, felt that traditional jewelry was far too ostentatious. Instead, a man would give a woman a thimble as a promise of their eventual marriage. The woman would then use this thimble while sewing linens and other items for her dowry. Once the dowry was completed and the marriage official, the thimble could be cut in two, with the rim being worn upon the finger like a ring.
Today's bands can be made from many different metals. Yellow gold is, of course, classic, but white gold, silver, and platinum are also popular choices. Platinum has gained a following because of its strength and beauty.
Because the media has made it so easy to follow every aspect of celebrities' lives, many women are inspired by the choices of their favorite stars. Mariah Carey, Beyonce, and Jennifer Lopez are all celebrities whose betrothal rings have been scrutinized, admired, and even replicated. The ring used in the 'Twilight' films has also caused a stir, with many women requesting lookalikes.
Obviously, today's extravagant engagement ring is a far cry from its ancient predecessor. Even with so many changes in trends and styles for this iconic accessory, however, it is still worn to represent the commitment and eternal love of marriage.
The custom of using a ring to represent betrothal goes all the way back to ancient times. It probably originated in Egypt and then spread to Rome, where iron was the material of choice, as it symbolized the strength of the marriage, as well as its longevity. However, metal bands eventually became unpopular as a symbol of marriage. They weren't brought back into prominence until the late ninth century, when Pope Nicholas I ordered that every man should seal his betrothal with a gold band to show that he could provide for his bride to be.
Several hundred years later, Pope Innocent III decreed that other materials besides gold could be used to make these rings, making way for the popular diamond solitaire design that is considered classic today. A ring of this type was first given in 1477 by the Archduke Maximilian of Austria to his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy. Diamonds became popular because at the time, they were believed to have mystical powers where love was concerned, and in addition, their toughness and beauty well represented the couple's hope for a happy and glorious marriage. While diamonds were once very rare, they have become more accessible in recent centuries, making them available to the masses.
For those people who decide that diamonds aren't for them, however, there are still plenty of other options. It's not uncommon these days to see colored diamonds or other gemstones on top of a ring. This practice originated with the aristocracy hundreds of years ago. Colored jewels can symbolize a variety of things, and they're also very beautiful, making them a perfect choice for many brides-to-be.
A multitude of other materials have also been employed to craft betrothal rings. Long ago, people might have used wood or leather to create them. The Puritans, some of the first people to immigrate to America, felt that traditional jewelry was far too ostentatious. Instead, a man would give a woman a thimble as a promise of their eventual marriage. The woman would then use this thimble while sewing linens and other items for her dowry. Once the dowry was completed and the marriage official, the thimble could be cut in two, with the rim being worn upon the finger like a ring.
Today's bands can be made from many different metals. Yellow gold is, of course, classic, but white gold, silver, and platinum are also popular choices. Platinum has gained a following because of its strength and beauty.
Because the media has made it so easy to follow every aspect of celebrities' lives, many women are inspired by the choices of their favorite stars. Mariah Carey, Beyonce, and Jennifer Lopez are all celebrities whose betrothal rings have been scrutinized, admired, and even replicated. The ring used in the 'Twilight' films has also caused a stir, with many women requesting lookalikes.
Obviously, today's extravagant engagement ring is a far cry from its ancient predecessor. Even with so many changes in trends and styles for this iconic accessory, however, it is still worn to represent the commitment and eternal love of marriage.
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