Ring Size

925 Sterling Silver Ring Platinum Plated HA CZ Ring PR201211 Size 6
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US $.99

Handcrafted Turquoise 925 Sterling Silver Ring Size 8
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US $2.47

SOUTH GAP PREMIER DESIGNS AMETHYST SILVER RING SIZE 6
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US $5.55

Size 7 Colorful Spot Cocktail Finger Rings 18k White Gold GP Swarovski Crystal
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US $.98

Sz 7 Lady Party Jewelry Clear Swarovski Crystals 18k White Gold GP Fashion Ring
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US $.98

Amazing 9K White GOLD Filled CZ Heart Accent Ringsize 72012 R 314
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US $2.14

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A Brief Overview Of The Engagement Ring

Women have been receiving rings as a token of betrothal practically since history began to be recorded. The earliest ones, however, were little more than a metal band and did not sport diamonds as the majority do today. The first record of a diamond ring given to celebrate an engagement dates to 1477. In that year, the Emperor Maximilian bestowed one on Mary of Burgundy, his betrothed. At the time, diamonds were so rare that only royalty and the very rich could buy them. Beginning in the eighteenth century, however, the supply began to increase. This continued into the nineteenth century, which also saw the Industrial Revolution bring more wealth to more people.

Most couples select solitaire engagement rings. These feature one single diamond, which can be set in a variety of mounts. Although technically a solitaire can be any cut, the stones are normally round. Many feel that this cut showcases the sparkle of the diamond.

A trilogy setting is a common variant of the solitaire. These have a larger stone in the center and a smaller gem on either side. While these may all be diamonds, in the last few decades jewelers have produced several variations. The center gem can be an emerald, ruby, or sapphire, or a birthstone can sometimes be used.

Some brides prefer an antique engagement ring. Most of these date from the turn of the nineteenth century through the 1950s, since any older than 50 years can be called an antique. The majority of these are diamonds. There are also many from the 1920s and 1930s made in the art deco manner that often use other gems as well. Rings that date back further than that may not use diamonds, especially those older than about 1700. Many of these are set with other precious gems, and may feature very intricate designs.

Princess cut engagement rings have been gaining in popularity in recent years. These diamonds are cut into a square shape and have a flat top. They are sometimes mounted flush with the band, but the typical mount places the prongs at the corners of the stone.

Rectangular cuts with flat tops and faceted sides are called emerald cuts. A marquis cut is round but tapers at both ends to points. Pears are round and large on one end with a sharp point at the other. Pears are seldom used as solitaires due to their awkward shape, but may be used with additional cuts of diamonds in a ring. However, they are more commonly used as settings for earrings and pendants.

It should come as no surprise that some of the modern ideas about diamonds are the result of advertising campaigns by jewelers. For example, the notion that a prospective groom spend two to three months' salary on an engagement ring was a promotion by a major American jeweler. Nevertheless, diamonds have remained the most popular precious gem, and most women prefer diamond engagement rings. Size, cut, and mountings may, however, vary a great deal. But now that diamonds are plentiful, varied, and affordable, almost everyone can achieve her goal.

Tutorial: How to measure your ring size