Essential Guide to Engagement Ring Styles and Traditions
Especially in Western culture, engagement rings signify the formal promise to marry and are worn by women on the fourth finger of their left hand. In some cultures however, both men and women wear matching engagement rings, and not always on the same finger as Western tradition dictates.
For a woman, an engagement ring will be one of the most special items of jewellery she will ever own, so men need to take care to make just the right choice.
The following guide will outline a brief interesting history of engagement rings and list the most popular styles for 2012 to help you when shopping around.
History of Engagement Rings
The earliest record of bands worn for engagement purposes was in Ancient Egypt, since the circle was seen to symbolise a never ending cycle with the central space as a gateway. Rings were placed on the fourth finger because the Ancient Egyptians believed that it contained a vein that leads directly to the heart.
Betrothal rings were also used during Roman times, although people primarily saw them as a marker of ownership rather than love when it came to relationships. Nevertheless, Roman men presented rings that included a small key which symbolised the unlocking of wealth as well as the wife protecting and cherishing her husband’s heart. In other cases, Romans used betrothal rings to simply signify affection and friendship.
The true tradition of engagement rings in Western history began in 1215, when Pope Innocent III decided there was to be a waiting period between the promise of marriage and the actual marriage ceremony. Thus, the rings signified the couple’s devotion to one another during that period of time. Engagement rings were also a symbol of rank at that period of history, since only the nobles were allowed to own or wear rings with jewels.
Until the end of the 19th century, rings were actually not the typical betrothal gifts in the West. It was common for the bride-to-be to receive a sewing thimble instead. Engagement rings didn’t become standard until the 20th century, and the standard diamond rings didn’t become the norm until the 1930s.
Top Engagement Ring Styles for 2012
Let’s take a crucial look at the most popular styles when it comes to engagement rings, although do bear in mind that your final choice needs to primarily reflect the style preference and personality of the bride-to-be:
Classic
The classic style made of gold with dazzling gemstones in the centre was made wildly popular again following Kate Middleton’s engagement ring which contained a magnificent blue sapphire. Whether you like diamonds, tourmalines, rubies or garnets, there is a wealth of classically styled engagement rings to choose from this year.
Archi-Texture
This trend has been gaining in popularity – the ring is treated as a sculpture with a creative design on the band and/or prongs to produce an ornately detailed work of art from every angle.
Square
Fashionista’s are increasingly opting for square-ish shaped engagement rings in 2012. While a large square-cut diamond is the most classic choice, at the moment there is a wide range of beautiful designs to choose from in this style, including rectangular or cushion shaped rings.
New Direction
An interesting trend this year is engagement rings that buck the tradition design of sitting at straight angles to the finger. For example, the pear shape, marquise and oval styles are very in vogue at the moment. Kate Beckinsale made this option particularly popular recently with her stunning ring with emerald cuts set east to west across the finger. Diamonds are also getting this treatment in 2012 – keep your eye out for some interesting shapes if you want an engagement ring that exemplifies both beauty and modern individuality.
Organic
Otherwise called A.B.T. (Anything But Traditional), this category of engagement ring style contains an extremely diverse range of choices, particularly now that they are currently on the Hot List. The design tends to be defined by supple gold and silver metals that are intricately handcrafted to complement and enhance organically-shaped gemstones. They are also often made using recycled materials and are from non-conflict locations as an eco-friendly statement.
Conclusion
Getting engaged is a momentous occasion for every couple, superseded only by the wedding day and having children. The above guide gives you a fascinating look into the origin of engagement rings as jewellery which holds deep symbolic value. Using the 5 Top styles for 2012 that I have outlined, you will also be better informed when looking for that sparkling emblem of love and devotion.
About the Author: Julia Littlewood is a stylist and jewellery enthusiast.
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