The Meaning Of Engagement Rings
Engagement rings hold a special significance in the realm of love and commitment. These precious symbols represent the promise of a lifelong partnership and the beginning of a new chapter in a couple's journey together. In this article, we will explore the meaning and history of engagement rings, the current trends, and the rarity and sentiment attached to natural diamonds.
Extraordinarily hard to find and expensive to recover, natural diamonds have only been found in remote regions of the world for over a century. Each unique diamond emanates a captivating, authentic, and timeless beauty that transcends generations and trends. The intrinsic value of natural diamonds is unparalleled. It is no wonder that diamonds have been the ultimate symbol of love, connection, celebration, and permanence for centuries.
“Worn to symbolise a lifetime’s promise of love and commitment, the engagement ring is the most meaningful gift a man will give and a woman will receive” – Shimansky
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The Rarity and Sentiment of Natural Diamonds
When selecting an engagement ring, it is important to consider the sentiment behind a natural diamond. Its history, rarity, and enduring beauty make it a meaningful choice that will be cherished for a lifetime. Whether passed down through generations or newly acquired, a natural diamond engagement ring represents a timeless symbol of love and commitment.
Natural diamonds are truly remarkable gems, formed deep within the Earth's mantle over billions of years. Their rarity and enduring beauty make them highly sought after for engagement rings. Each natural diamond is unique, with its own distinct characteristics and story. The sentiment attached to a natural diamond lies in its authenticity and the enduring value it represents.
Unlike synthetic 'lab' diamonds, natural diamonds are a product of nature's extraordinary forces. The journey from the depths of the Earth to the hands of a loved one is a testament to the enduring power of love and the remarkable beauty that nature creates.
Choosing a natural diamond for an engagement ring is a testament to the timeless and enduring nature of love. It symbolizes a commitment to authenticity, rarity, and the everlasting bond between two individuals.
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The Meaning of Engagement Rings
An engagement ring is a tangible expression of love and devotion. It serves as a visible reminder of the commitment between two individuals who have chosen to embark on a shared future. The ring is typically worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, as it is believed to be directly connected to the heart by the "vena amoris" or the "vein of love."
The History of Engagement Rings
Engagement rings have a rich history that dates back centuries. These symbolic pieces of jewellery have evolved over time, but their significance remains constant - they represent love, commitment, and the promise of a future together. In particular, natural diamonds have become synonymous with engagement rings, symbolizing the enduring strength and beauty of a couple's relationship.
The tradition of giving engagement rings can be traced back to ancient civilizations. The Indians were the very first to gift diamonds to loved ones, unearthed from the Golconda diamond mines in India since the 4th century BC or earlier. It was the sole source of the world’s diamonds until 1725 when deposits were discovered in Brazil and then in South Africa in the late 19th century.
The ancient Egyptians believed that the circle shape of a ring symbolized eternity, and they would exchange rings made from woven reeds or other natural materials. The Romans, on the other hand, were the first to use metal rings, often made from iron, to represent ownership and fidelity.
Diamonds only really became more accessible to many after their discovery in South Africa in 1867. In the age of industrialisation, the discovery of diamonds in South Africa led to the Kimberley Diamond Rush and created a vast demand and supply of diamond engagement rings.
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The First Diamond Engagement Ring
The first known engagement ring on record is from 1477, when royal Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to his love, Mary of Burgundy with a natural diamond set on a gold band. Maximilian wanted to symbolize his love and make the engagement known with the gem that had embodied love and endurance since its discovery.
Dealing with a Trusted Diamond Seller
When purchasing an engagement ring, it's vital to choose a trusted diamond seller. Here are some tips for finding a reputable seller:
Reputation: Look for well-established jewelers with a good reputation. Applebys have over 75 years in business, and have built a reputation based on integrity.
GIA Certification: Ensure that the diamonds being sold are certified by the GIA. This certification guarantees the quality and authenticity of the diamond.
Ethical Diamonds: Be wary of purchasing diamonds that do not follow strict ethical and moral standards. Appleby Jewellers will sell you an ethical diamond only. The Appleby family is committed to ensuring all our diamonds are sourced in a manner that upholds the social, ethical and environmental ethics we share with our customers, and are proud members of Amnesty International. With over 70 years of diamond expertise, we have earned a reputation for selecting the highest standard and quality in the diamonds we buy. We are one of the very few Irish companies who buy direct from the bourse (the diamond trading floor in Antwerp).
Our stringent sourcing procedures, selection processes and certification requirements mean that the diamonds in every piece of Appleby jewellery are GIA certified and 100 per cent conflict-free. We inspect each diamond individually and validate it's associate certificates to ensure we know we are buying only the very best, conflict-free stones. This is your best guarantee of ethical diamonds.
By following these top tips, understanding the details of diamonds, and dealing with a trusted diamond seller, you can confidently choose the perfect engagement ring for your loved one. Remember, an engagement ring is a symbol of love and commitment, so take your time and enjoy the process of finding the one that captures your partner's heart.
We are proud to have earned a reputation for the highest quality of diamonds and excellent customer service with countless couples, and generations of families in over 70 years of business. Remember, it is not only about the purchase of the ring, it is about the lifetime of the ring.
The current trends in engagement rings reflect the diverse tastes and preferences of couples today. However, the rarity and sentiment attached to natural diamonds make them a cherished choice for those seeking a symbol of enduring love.
Browse our engagement rings here: Top Picks
