While a diamond engagement ring once symbolised a man’s love towards his partner, today they symbolise mutual commitment and everlasting love. Diamond engagement rings grew in popularity due to DeBeers’ 1947 marketing campaign which had the slogan ‘A Diamond is Forever’. This campaign transformed both the diamond and advertising industry forever. It further helped increase the sales of diamond engagement rings drastically. Throughout this guide, we will explore the history of diamond engagement rings, and provide you with reasons as to why you should purchase one. We will also provide you with recommendations for your significant other if you’re looking to pop the question!
History of diamond engagement rings
The concept of giving a gem-studded ring originates from 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgandy with a diamond ring. There is a high chance that this event began the tradition of proposing with a diamond engagement ring.
When diamonds were discovered during the 1870s in South Africa, the precious gemstones became more accessible to the public. Cecil Rhodes and his newly formed company, DeBeers, were at the forefront of this. DeBeers controlled around 85% of the world’s diamond trade and extracted the gemstones for 50 years. However, at that time there simply wasn’t enough demand for diamonds.
Fast forward a couple of years and DeBeers had hired advertising agency N.W. Ayer to research the ‘ad market’. They produced a comprehensive US ad campaign with print, video, and celebrity publicity. As a result of the ‘A Diamond Is Forever’ campaign, their popularity began to soar. This shifted the way the world thought about diamonds and people began to see diamonds as a symbol of unbreakable chemistry and everlasting love. Diamonds became the most popular choice for engagement rings, rising from 10% in 1939 to 80% in 1990.
Why should I buy a diamond engagement ring?
Diamond engagement rings carry a value of love and commitment. There is something so beautiful about proposing to your partner in such a traditional way. There are many reasons why people choose a diamond for their engagement ring, the following are just three reasons why people choose this gemstone.
The hardness of the diamond makes it the most durable and lasting
As one of the hardest natural materials, diamond engagement rings carry a robust quality, they will withstand daily wear to a greater degree. This durability makes them the perfect piece to pass down to generations to come. The sentimental value will be high with a diamond engagement ring as the diamond itself does not get worn out over time.
GEMEX Platinum Round Twist Shoulder 0.40ct D VS2 0.50ct ENG20181
This diamond engagement ring exhibits an eye-catching twisted design. The stunning ring is made from platinum which gives it a luxurious and long-lasting finish. A singular diamond is situated front and centre on this ring. A row of smaller, sparkling diamonds frame it on the shoulders of the ring. This diamond is the perfect size for those who love a dainty and minimalistic look. The cut of the diamond is round and brilliant. This is known to be the diamond shape that lasts the longest. The hardness of the diamond means it can withstand daily wear to a greater degree. There is a larger possibility that this diamond engagement ring can be passed down through generations and its high quality will still be maintained.
A neutral colour makes diamonds versatile
Diamonds are most commonly near-colourless with hints of yellow or brown. This neutral tone means that diamonds can be paired with any other gemstone. A luxurious and glamorous look can be achieved whilst wearing a diamond engagement ring with a gemstone. Gemstones are often used as a finishing touch in the jewellery design. They can emphasise sparkle without taking focus away from the centrepiece. Diamonds are available in shades of 12 base colours and they contain interstitial impurities that cause the coloration. Although some people may see this as an imperfection, others view it as an opportunity to add to the elegance of the ring.
LM 18ct White Gold 0.56ct Total Aquamarine Diamond Pear Ring SP4373(AQ)
This eye-catching ring is made from 18-carat white gold for a luxurious finish. Due to its modern appearance, white gold is becoming an increasingly popular material in jewellery. At the centre of this ring is a pear-cut Aquamarine gemstone. It is surrounded by a halo of diamonds to accentuate the beautiful cut of the gemstone. Small, sparkling diamonds are continued onto the shoulders of this ring. This ring would make a beautiful choice for an engagement ring. Especially for those individuals who like the thought of a diamond engagement ring but want a pop of colour from an added gemstone.
There is a shape suited to every hand
Many, if not all, women know the shape of the clothes that complement their bodies and make them feel beautiful. Finding the perfect engagement ring should be the same too. Since diamond engagement rings come in a variety of shapes and sizes, there will be one that suits the shape of your hand. An oval-cut ring complements larger or more mature hands. A round or princess-cut diamond complements more petite hands.
James Moore 18k White Gold 0.69ct Diamond Ring JM9189
This three-stone ring is simple and elegant, making it the perfect choice for an engagement ring. The ring is crafted from 18-carat white gold which adds to the luxurious finish. Three diamonds are situated at the centre of the band, they are all either princess or square cut. The nature of these diamonds means they would complement smaller fingers perfectly. This classic design has adopted a modern twist because of the straight line of the gemstone cut.
What are your thoughts on diamond engagement rings? Will you be using one when proposing to your significant other? Let us know in the comments!
