White and pink, yellow and blue diamond rings in platinum settings from Tiffany and Co.’s Colors of Wonder collection. Photo © Tiffany and Co.
By Sarah D. Cholewa
Ah, engagement rings. They sparkle, they shine and they most certainly create a commotion when someone dons a recently gifted one. Once a luxury only the highest in society could afford, their beauty and price tag still take our breath away even though they have become more common.
Engagement rings have been a sign of commitment and love for centuries. The custom of the engagement ring can be traced to ancient Rome, although the ancient Egyptians and Greeks may have worn bands as well. Historically, women in ancient Rome had two bands — a gold one to be worn in public and an iron one to be worn at home. Most societies have adopted some sort of ring culture and while they all differ, they are linked by a strong bond–an eternal promise.
The diamond engagement ring has been a tradition since the mid-1400s, and it’s a tradition that began in Vienna. In the United States, diamonds lost a bit of luster following World War I and more so as the Great Depression took hold. During the 1930s the price of diamonds collapsed, but in 1939 diamond cartel De Beers began a marketing campaign that would change the industry indefinitely. After educating the public on the four Cs (cut, carat, color and clarity), De Beers introduced a catchy new slogan: A Diamond is Forever. Between the most famous performance of “Diamonds Are a Girls Best Friend” by Miss Marilyn Monroe to Shirley Bassey singing her second 007 theme song, “Diamonds Are Forever,” this gem is seemingly immortal.
Today, a promise of adoration and dedication doesn’t have to be traditional or cookie cutter. It seems more often than not couples are changing the rules in the ring industry — I’m talking color people! Yes, we appreciate the dazzling clarity of a flawless diamond (a girl can dream), but why not go with something that pops? Blue and pink sapphires, deep red rubies and garnets, even bright emeralds have been paving the way for non-traditional engagement rings. If you’re a diamond-lover who wants to be part of the color phenomenon, don’t fret: Diamonds come in a range of colors as well including yellow, pink and blue (the three stunners above are all diamonds and they’re all Tiffany).
Regardless of the cut, color, clarity, carat, setting or maker one thing is certain: You’ve received this beautiful bauble from someone who loves you indefinitely. Your sweetheart probably stressed a bit trying to remember what you like in the confusing world of sparkle and shine. It’s okay to drop a few hints on what makes your eyes light up, whether it’s a timeless antique or a spanking new sparkler (Pinterest is clearly a stroke of genius). While the ring is customary, the love you share is unique and priceless.