The giving or receiving of a ring upon becoming betrothed goes back to the most ancient civilizations. However, these were usually just a simple band of metal rather than the elaborate gems modern brides consider today. The oldest known diamond rings was bestowed in 1477 by the Holy Roman Emperor Maximilian to his fiancee, Mary of Burgundy. Diamonds were then very rare and only the richest could afford them. But during the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, the supply increased dramatically. Average income also increased during the Industrial Revolution. The combination of the two factors allowed diamonds to be purchased by more people.

Solitaire engagement rings remain the most widely sold style. Although solitaire merely indicates that there is a single stone, most of them are round cut. The way it is mounted, however, can vary widely. Many jewelers consider that a round cut displays the diamond’s sparkle to its utmost.

A trilogy ring is a variation on a solitaire. This style has two small stones with a larger one between them. These are typically all three diamonds, but variations have become very popular in recent decades. Sometimes, a sapphire, emerald, or ruby is substituted for the center diamond, while at other times the bride may choose her birthstone.

Some brides prefer an antique engagement ring. Most of these date from the turn of the nineteenth century through the 1950s, since any older than 50 years can be called an antique. The majority of these are diamonds. There are also many from the 1920s and 1930s made in the art deco manner that often use other gems as well. Rings that date back further than that may not use diamonds, especially those older than about 1700. Many of these are set with other precious gems, and may feature very intricate designs.

Princess cut engagement rings have become very popular in recent years. A princess cut is flat on the top and square in shape. The stone may be set so that it is flush with the band, but the usual mount has prongs that cover the corners of the stone.

Rectangular stones are often referred to as emerald cuts. They are usually faceted on the sides and feature a flat top. A marquis cut refers to a stone that is basically round, but tapering to a point at both ends. Pear shapes are more commonly used in earrings, pendants, or with other stones due to their clunky shape. A pear shaped diamond is round at one end and pointed at the other.

Many modern beliefs about diamonds are not historic traditions, but instilled by advertising campaigns launched by the major jewelers. For instance, the suggestion that a groom spend at least two times his monthly salary on an engagement ring came from such a campaign. However, diamonds have only continued to grow in popularity among prospective brides. Thankfully, diamonds are now more plentiful, affordable, and varied, which lets almost every bride add a sparkler to her hand.

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