Many modern cultures use engagement rings as a symbol of love and devotion between two people. Marriage is handled in different ways, but some practices remain very similar regardless of religious affiliation or nationality. The engagement ring is easily one of the most popular pieces of jewelry on the planet. This meaningful accessory has been evolving along with mankind for thousands of years.
The Earliest Engagement Rings
It is believed that the inhabitants of some of the earliest human settlements used a type of engagement ring. They didn’t hammer metals or add expensive stones to the accessory. It was much simpler, consisting of a length of braided grass cord. The cord would be tied around the female partner. Where it was tied varied. Sometimes it was found on the wrist or ankle. It could also be worn around the waist. In each situation, the cord symbolized the man’s claim to the woman and control of her spirit.
Ancient Egyptian Engagement Rings
Ancient Egypt added a new twist to the meaning of the engagement ring. The ring band was worn as a symbol of a never ending cycle. Many Egyptians have been found buried with a twisted wire ring of gold or silver on their left ring finger. This is the first indication of the longstanding belief that a vein connected the finger to the heart, making it the best choice for love-related jewelry.
Roman Romance and Engagement Rings
Ancient Rome also had its own version of the engagement ring. These were called betrothal or truth rings. The ring, also worn on the left ring finger, would often include a tiny key. The male partner would give this gift to the female partner as a symbol of their bond. Some believe that the key was added as a way to unlock the husband’s heart. The ancient Romans are also credited with starting the custom of engraving engagement rings.
After marriage, the Roman bride would usually be given two wedding bands to wear. One was made of gold and the other of iron. The gold band would be worn in public places where it would be seen while the iron band was worn at home and when doing daily work. These rings weren’t quite so romantic because they generally indicated the male’s ownership of the female rather than a true love commitment.
Engagement Jewelry of the 19th Century and Later
Engagement rings are popular today, but were not always used prior to the 20th century. It wasn’t uncommon for some cultures to give a sewing thimble instead of a fancy ring. This was a practice frequently found among Christian groups that are known as “plain people.” Plain people include the Amish, Mennonites and Quakers among others. It wasn’t until the 19th century that an engagement ring became the preferred bridal gift in the western world. While approximately 80% of women are given a diamond engagement ring today, most women did not receive diamond engagement jewelry prior to the 1930s.