It's a gift that's been eagerly anticipated. But are you sure you understand the roots of this custom? Learn more about the custom of the His And Hers Promise Rings including rules, history, and a bit of the etiquette!
Both for the person receiving it as well as for the one giving it, it can be interesting to know something more about the engagement ring: rules, customs, and histories which will help you understand what is behind the most sought-after jewel, the one that will cause you to commit to your forever love and that you will wear after the wedding ring. Before you even start fantasizing about the day you'll exchange your wedding vows, however you should take a few moments to learn about the mysteries that revolve around this very important ring that is usually presented by reciting memorable words of love.
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What is the meaning of the engagement ring? A bit of history
Since the Middle Ages, giving and accepting an engagement ring was creating a bond and the couple was agreed to set the date to make their vows. In the Age of Enlightenment, the custom of secret rings became popular and, when split into several pieces, could later be joined to form the wedding ring. In the same era the so-called poetry rings, decorated with romantic phrases or poems were also popular as a means of committing to the union.
The introduction of the diamond engagement ring is from the Victorian period: before then, in fact, they were merely metal objects. According to the legend, Archduke Maximilian gave his beloved Mary Burgundy an engagement ring, with diamonds set in it. From that moment on the ring was the standard symbol of an engagement.
And what's happening now?
The current tradition of the engagement ring leads to the De Beers family, a world market leader in the trade of diamonds and launched a huge advertising campaign in 1938. With the help of Hollywood singers and actresses, the ad giant even suggested the amount you could put into the ring: one month's wages which later grew to two. In 1948 copywriter Frances Gerety came up with the famous slogan "A diamond is eternal" for De Beers. This helped popularize the tradition of diamond engagement rings all over the world.
Immaculate suggestions from etiquette
Etiquette suggests selecting a ring that reflects the tastes and personality of the person who will be receiving it. It is highly unlikely that a bride who chooses to celebrate an unassuming wedding will be able to appreciate a lavish item and in this case, jewelry from family members can be used, possibly to be modernized or modified to increase the symbolic and sentimental value of the object. The moment of the ring's presentation in accordance with the etiquette will mark the beginning of a series of celebrations and traditions that the person who presents the ring must also present a bouquet of flowers delivered to the bride's parents and should then reciprocate with a gift that is of equal value. Traditions have been lost however, the value of common sense and politeness is still valued.
Ring for engagement: when to give it
Etiquette stipulates that the desired ring should be given exactly one year before the wedding date, however times have changed and there is no definitive rule in this regard. This doesn't mean you can give the engagement ring without a wedding proposal! This tradition has become more romantic and less rigid, especially when it comes to timing. Make sure you're completely convinced, and perhaps even make it your own date and not forgetting that planning the wedding may take some time. In all likelihood, you will determine the wedding date together after the diamond is placed on your partner's finger!
Where should the ring for engagement be kept?
Instructions vary according to the country of origin. In Brazil, for instance, both spouses will wear a ring that will be transferred from the right to the left hand on the day of ceremony. Whatever the case, whether it's the right or left hand, the ring should always be worn on the finger that holds the ring. In ancient times, it was believed that this finger was connected to the heart via one vein, known as the "Vena Amoris". In Italy, the engagement ring is placed on the ring of the right hand before the wedding. This allows the wedding ring to be worn on the left. It is customary to wear both rings on the same hand after wedding. Imo finger on the left hand.
After discovering the origins of this precious jewel, rules, customs and traditions all you need to do is breathe deeply and make the big leap. Don't fret about the jewel. We are certain that the goldsmiths will be pleased to show you the wide range of unique engagement rings and offer the best advice to make your beloved completely speechless.
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