Commitment and Engagement

Engagement rings play a significant role in Western culture. They are a symbol of commitment and a right of passage in the marriage process. Usually given as part of the proposal of marriage, the engagement ring is an integral part of a couple’s dedication to each other. Worn traditionally on the left handed ring finger, the engagement ring and the wedding ring are often fused together after the marriage ceremony.

Many ancient cultures have used rings are part of their religions and societies. The Ancient Egyptians believed that the circular shape of rings signified the never-ending nature of the world. Similarly, the Ancient Greeks wore rings on their left-handed ring finger as they believed that a vein ran from the heart and into that finger.

Ancient Egyptian Wedding Ring

Whilst engagement rings for women have existed through time for women, its only in more recent times that men have begun wearing them. One of the key factors in this is due to World War II. The men would head off to war, and would being wearing engagement and wedding rings to remember their wives and children they had left at home.

Angelina Jolie's Famous Engagement Ring

Modern day engagement ring styles can be very intricate and dramatic. With the wedding band generally being plain and small, the engagement ring is where the large gemstones and clever designs are created. Current day styles include the Princess engagement ring, tension set ring or even the Mokume Gane engagement ring.

Male engagement rings are on the increase. More popular than ever before, what may have been “girly” for men 50 years ago is now trendy. Rings with small diamond or gemstone settings are the most popular form of male engagement ring. Seeing as you only have one engagement ring in your life (hopefully), ensuring you pick the right one for you is imperative. Often high in price, engagement rings are an important part of relationships and though expensive, are one of the most special pieces that partners will ever buy each other. For information about custom engagement rings visit www.mdtdesign.com.au/category/brilliant-cuts/ .