Antique and vintage engagement rings encompass a myriad of designs and are a popular choice. There are no rules today surrounding what engagement ring one should get. However, from the 20th century...
...diamond rings became traditionally given as engagement rings. It was in 1948 that De Beers first coined the slogan ‘A Diamond is Forever', cementing the diamond solitaire in its role as the quintessential choice for an engagement ring. But even before this, diamond rings have long been associated with eternal love. Diamonds are the hardest of all gemstones, a quality that is central to their connection with unending devotion. Interestingly, the word ‘diamond' is derived from the Ancient Greek ‘adamas' meaning everlasting or unbeatable.
The Origins of Antique Diamond Engagement Rings: Antique diamond engagement rings can trace their origins back to Ancient Roman times when gold bands were occasionally set with a single uncut diamond crystal. The first diamond set engagement ring on record was presented in 1447 to Mary of Burgundy by Archduke Maximilian, reputedly set with diamonds that formed the letter ‘M'.
The earliest diamond sources were located in India followed by Brazil. But it was not until the South African diamond mines were discovered in the late 1860s that diamond set engagement rings became more obtainable, due to this increase in supply.
The Evolution of Diamond Cuts and Engagement Ring Styles: Constantly improving technological advancements meant that diamond cuts continued to change. They evolved from early point and table cut diamonds, reflecting the shape of a rough diamond crystal, to rose cuts popular in the Georgian era and then old cut diamond rings, a fully faceted diamond displaying superior scintillation. This allowed for an untold number of unique styles for engagement rings.
Diamond engagement rings have appeared in a variety of different unique designs throughout history. Explore our spectacular collection of Ancient Rings from the Egyptian, Roman and Greek periods to antique Victorian and Edwardian rings, as well as Art Deco diamond rings.
Find Your Perfect Antique or Vintage Engagement Ring at Berganza: Visit us in our Hatton Garden store, or browse our website to find the perfect antique or old-fashioned vintage yellow diamond engagement rings, including the enchanting Edwardian diamond ring and the vintage marquise ring. Berganza supplies the finest quality antique and vintage engagement rings and offers some of the rarest designs in the world, including a stunning array of coloured diamond rings for those seeking a uniquely vibrant symbol of everlasting love. We also offer a unique collection of Ancient Engagement rings, Dress, Diamond and Eternity rings.
Related Article: Something Old, Something New: Antique and Vintage Jewellery Why Diamonds are a Choice for Engagement Rings? How to Choose a Vintage Engagement Ring in the UK?
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