Engagement rings and wedding bands are core components of modern marriage rituals. However, that wasn't always the case. The exchange of rings has evolved steadily over thousands of years. Here's a closer look at that history to inspire you on your path to the right ring for your beloved. 

Ancient Times

The ancient Egyptians are often cited as the originators of wedding bands. Around 5,000 years ago, people would exchange rings made from leather, reeds, or hemp and wear them to showcase their love and devotion. They wore rings on the fourth finger of the left hand because they believed that a vein connected that finger to the heart.

The custom continued in ancient Greece and Rome with rings made of leather, bone, and ivory. The Romans introduced metal rings, but they were mostly iron. Only the wealthiest couples wore gold or silver. The Romans also turned the tradition from a simple sign of affection to a representation of marriage as a duty and social status. They popularized the concept of engagement rings as the empire shifted towards Christianity.

The Rise of the Diamond

While a diamond is the centerpiece of most engagement and wedding rings today, the gem was overshadowed by enamel and more readily available stones until the Renaissance period. In 1477, the first diamond engagement ring was given in Austria to Mary of Burgundy by Archduke Maximilian. This trend evolved during the Victorian period, when diamonds were accented with other gemstones to create flower-shaped custom engagement rings. 

Modern Times

The struggles of early colonial America meant many couples put wedding bands on the back burner. Instead of gold and diamond rings, couples exchanged thimbles, which eventually evolved into simply cutting off the top of the cap to create a metal ring. While prioritizing engagement and wedding rings came back in style by the 20th century, diamonds didn't re-emerge until the late 1940s. A DeBeers marketing campaign launched in 1947 made the brilliant, colorless stone the stylish and fashionable gem that we still associate with romance. 

Planning to pop the question? Find the right piece to symbolize your love at Clayton Jeweler in St. Louis, MO. The locally owned and operated jewelry store takes pride in offering an extensive selection of high-quality, hand-crafted engagement rings and wedding bands. They also manufacture custom jewelry on-site. Shop their collection online, and call (314) 726-2220 to make an appointment to receive personalized advice on your rings.