Engagement ring: meaning and why we offer it as a gift
Engagement ring meaning and the reason why it is given as a present
We buy it, choose it and give it as gift. But do we really are aware of its significance? Its history comes from many years ago, and we will provide more information about it shortly. Let's begin by saying that the meaning behind the engagement ring, which can be described as simple and romantic, is quite simple. This type of ring is both a symbol for love and a pledge of marriage, which by tradition is given by a man to a woman prior the wedding ceremony.
The design of the ring itself reveals its significance in our culture. The ring is a perfect circle that is endless and is a wonderful symbol of eternal love.
The tradition of the engagement ring isn't quite as common in other countries as it is here. In the West, it is commonplace to present the ring to loved ones. In some South American countries however, the ring is first worn on the right hand and then on the left hand on the wedding day.
Why do we give a ring to an engagement as a gift?
To answer this question, we'll have to look into a brief historical parenthesis. It appears that even in Roman times, there was a custom of giving the bride two rings, one made of gold and the other iron, to be used at home in order not to damage the gold one.
As time went on the ring began to be worn more often on the ring finger of the left hand, and we do today since it was believed that the vena amoris (vein of love) was flowing through the finger directly to the heart.
However, we must wait until the Middle Ages to find traces of the first genuine engagement ring. It was commissioned in 1477 by the Archduke of Austria Maximilian I for Mary of Burgundy.
In the twentieth century the tradition began to take hold, especially after the Second World War when the belief spread throughout the United States, that the engagement ring was a necessary present for the engagement, particularly when it is embellished with diamonds.
How do you pick an engagement ring?
Let's look at some helpful tips for choosing the right engagement ring now that we understand more about its meaning.
The first rule is that there are no rules: everyone can choose the ring that they prefer according to their own personal preferences and, most importantly, the preferences of their fiancée. It is true, however that some rings are more popular than others. People usually choose:
Solitaire is the ring on which one stone is set, for instance diamonds;
A riviere is also referred to as a veretta, has a number of stones set;
A half-faith ring or band is, as its name suggests, a tinier ring compared to the classic wedding ring.
A trilogy ring is another popular choice. It is a gold or a platinum ring that is decorated with three precious stones. These are usually brilliants. In the background of a trilogy is also a romantic significance since the three stones indicate the future, present and past of the engaged couple.
For materials the most sought-after are gold and platinum, but you can also have rings made of titanium, silver and various other metals. For precious stones, there is no standard that is applicable to everyone; despite this, the best traditional is without doubt the diamond ring, and even more popular are brilliant cut diamonds.
Adding additional stones to the diamond is also uncommon. In these instances however, you have pay attention to the significance they bring to them.
If you choose an engagement ring with emerald, you will find that it has many meanings. It is a stunning green stone that is a symbol with harmony, elegance and peace. It is also an emblem of loyalty and fidelity when given to your partner.
Aquamarine has a completely different symbolism. The significance of a ring featuring aquamarine is extremely important to a couple since it signifies a happy and stable relationship. It is also an excellent indicator for their future together.