The Evolution of Engagement Rings: From Tradition to Trendsetting

Introduction

The engagement ring has long been a symbol of love and the promise of a lifetime together. But the designs of engagement rings have evolved significantly; engagement rings didn’t always include diamonds, and now, engagement rings don’t have to include diamonds! In this blog post, we will talk about the evolution of engagement rings, from traditional roots to trendsetting styles today.

The Origins of Engagement Rings

The origins of engagement rings can be traced back to Ancient Rome. Roman women wore rings made from a variety of materials such as iron, gold, copper, bone, and flint to ‘signify a business contact or to affirm mutual love and obedience’, according to the Gemological Institute of America. So back then the engagement ring was more of a symbol of “ownership”, and it didn’t really have much to do with love or self-expression.

The engagement ring officially became a symbol of love in 850 CE when Pope Nicholas I declared it a statement of man’s intent to marry. Gold engagement rings became popular during this time, though other materials were also used.

The Rise of Diamonds

In 1477, the first diamond engagement ring was given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy. This started the tradition of diamond engagement rings among the elite. In the mid-1900s, the diamond engagement rings became popular among the masses as well. This was thanks to a British-owned diamond company, De Beers, which advertized the slogan “A Diamond is Forever”, and popularized diamond rings. Within 3 years of this campaign, diamond engagement ring sales increased by 50%. This marketing campaign may be the reason why diamond engagement rings are still popular today.

The Influence of Celebrity Culture

The explosion of celebrity culture in the 20th century with Hollywood icons like Marilyn Monroe, Grace Kelly, and Elizabeth Taylor, set the trend for unique and extravagant diamond rings. The trend continues today; our Baguette & Round Cut Diamond Ring in 2.30ct diamonds is truly a star piece, worthy of iconic Hollywood stars.

Minimalism Wins

Towards the end of the 20th century, more minimalistic engagement rings, like solitaire rings, became popular. At the beginning of the 21st century, the halo setting (which is pavé diamonds that surround the center stone) took solitaire rings to the next level, adding a touch of bling to traditional styles. For those who prefer minimalistic designs with a touch of bling, our Flower Cluster Diamond Ring in 1.7ct diamonds is a simple yet distinctively beautiful choice.

Modern Trends

Unlike the 20th century when solitaire rings were all the rage, there isn’t really one particular style that’s trending right now. We live in a world where we are free to be whoever we want and express ourselves in any way we want, so we do that with our engagement rings as well. Instead of following trends, brides are opting for what they truly want, and using their engagement rings as a way of self-expression. We are seeing more and more unique engagement ring designs, and each one is more beautiful than the next. Unique styles like our Baguette Bypass Diamond Ring in 2.28ct diamonds are perfect for glamorous modern women.

The Rise of Customization

Even though solitaire rings remain a popular choice for engagement rings, we are seeing a shift towards individual styles with customized engagement rings. Since jewelry is used as a tool for self-expression, it’s no surprise that brides want their engagement rings to be an extension of themselves. Customization options include gemstones (or no gemstones) and unique settings, and you can be as adventurous as you want when incorporating your personal style into the design.

Colorful Engagement Rings

While diamonds remain a popular choice, many brides are opting for other gemstones to express their unique personality and style. Colored diamonds, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and other gemstones have gained big popularity in recent years. Many royalties and Hollywood celebrities are also opting for colored diamonds or gemstones, offering a refreshing and vibrant style.

The same goes for the band as well. Besides platinum and white gold, yellow gold and rose gold engagement rings have also become increasingly popular. For example, take a look at our Heart Baguette Bypass Diamond Ring in 2.54ct diamonds; the combination of feminine rose gold with the beautiful heart design offers a truly romantic ring.

Men’s Engagement Rings

Another trend that we are seeing right now is men’s engagement rings, though they don’t look like women’s engagement rings, they tend to look like a men’s wedding band with small diamonds. But there are no rules, men’s engagement rings can be as simple or as extravagant as you want. You can opt for a wedding band type ring with diamonds, like our Multi-Row Band Diamond Ring in 1.33ct diamonds.

Or you can showcase your bold style and personality with our Baguette & Round Cut Diamond Signet Ring in 2.47ct diamonds, which is a masculine yet extravagant ring that is perfect for modern, stylish men.

Conclusion

As with any trend, engagement ring trends are also constantly changing. But maybe a solitaire ring doesn’t fit your style or personality, and that’s okay. Jewelry is there for us to express ourselves, so your engagement ring should be uniquely yours, and be a reflection of your personality and style. The same goes for wedding bands as well; at Bayam Jewelry, we offer a variety of wedding bands for men and women, so you are guaranteed to find a match for your style. The important thing to remember is, there is no right or wrong when it comes to jewelry. So whether you like classic solitaire rings, colorful engagement rings, or rings with no gemstones, it’s all about personal preference and what makes you feel the most beautiful. So take a look at our Diamond Rings Collection and find a ring that is uniquely yours. And remember, any ring can be an engagement ring if you like it.