An Engagement Ring: A Symbol of Never Ending Love  

An engagement ring is far more than just a piece of jewelry, it represents a promise of a lifetime together and deep love. For centuries, marriage proposals have included an engagement ring symbolizing coming together of two souls. From a timeless solitaire diamond to vintage designs, engagement rings have sentimental significance that lasts a lifetime. 

The History of Engagement Rings

An engagement ring has its roots in history, having originated in ancient rome, where gifts of rings were exchanged as a public pledge of betrothal. Exchanging diamond engagement rings began in the year 1477 when Archduke Maximillian of Austria gifted a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy. Following this the trend swept through the European aristocrats and subsequently led to the culture of gving engagement rings. The well known campaign by De Beers in 1947 boosted the sales of diamond rings further marketing them as everlasting love.

Most Famous Styles of Engagement Rings 

Diamonds in different designs embody different values and beauties where each design is special on its own. Mostly, people prefer the solitaire ring which is a diamond ring featuring a single diamond because it is a timeless choice and shows beauty in every way. The more modern innovations are halo rings that have a center stone but a circle of smaller diamonds around the center which  adds brilliance and makes the ring more eye catching. Vintage-inspired rings that have detailed filigree work also are designed for people who admire the old world. A couple's love story is told throught the three stone rings where every stone represents the past, present, and future and modern minimalistic style caters to people who prefer elegance.  

How to Select the Right Diamond

The correct diamond for an engagement ring should be chosen after properly considering the four Cs which are: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. Since shiny diamonds are preferred the most, the cut of the diamond determines how well that diamond reflects light and is therefore the most essential part of the choosing process. The best type of diamond is the clear one, also known as colorless, but other types of colors do exist such as yellow and lessen the rating of the diamond. The level of inclusions or scratches of a diamond indicate its clarity while the size of the diamond itself indicates the carat weight. All these factors combined along with the budget ensure choosing the best diamond.

Metal Choices for Engagement Rings

Engagement rings are a two-in-one gift to your partner, and to serve it best, you need to pay close attention to every detail. Picking up the right theme colors starts with the choice of metal, and they greatly determine the overall figure of the ring. Most people tend to choose platinum because it is hypoallergenic and extremely durable. For those looking for a cheaper alternative, white gold looks just as good as platinum, although a touch softer. A classic option is yellow gold which comes warm and gentle while rose gold is unique in its soft vintage appeal. For a personal touch, couples can explore mixed metal settings, which are on the rise in popularity.

Customization and Personalization

The beauty of custom engagement rings lies in the freedom of imagination that allows endless options of designs and styles. Most couples adore engraving memorable dates or initials inside the band which gives a ring even extra meaning. Also, choosing unique rather than traditional diamonds such as sapphires, rubies, or emeralds can greatly add to the uniqueness of a ring. Ethical and lab-grown diamonds have quickly become popular alternatives for people who are concerned about the environment and cost.

Caring for an Engagement Ring

To keep the diamond of an engagement ring sparkling, regular cleaning and maintenance is required. The ring should be cleaned at home with warm water and a mild soap and inspected at a jeweler's to prevent loose stones and other damage. Storing the ring in a fabric lined jewelry box will protect it from scratches and ensure that the ring's beauty continues for generations.