Fascinating Facts About Engagement Rings
1. Rings have long been a symbol of union and commitment, and can be traced back to pre-history, when cavemen created chords of braided grass to tie around the waist, ankles and wrists of their chosen mates.
2. Many believe the first recorded diamond engagement ring was given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria on his proposal to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. The ring was set with thin, flat diamonds arranged in the shape of an “M”.
3. Ancient cultures thought that the third finger on the left had a vein (called Vena Amoris) that ran directly to the heart. Although this has been proven wrong, the tradition of wearing an engagement ring on this finger has remained.
4. In the 18th Century, it was popular for a man to present a ‘posy’ ring, a simple gold band inscribed with a line of rhyming verse. These would also be given as a sign of friendship and loyalty, or as a memorial ring.
5. If you were proposed to in the Victorian era, you were likely to receive a snake ring, as they symbolized eternity.
6. It is becoming more common for couples to choose the engagement ring together, with nearly a third of modern brides being present when the ring is purchased.
At J. Thomas Jewelers we are experts in assisting you with the selection of your engagement ring. Whether it’s a classic or modern design you are looking for, or if you prefer the charm of an antique style, our selection of rings offers something for everyone.
Want to create your own? Your vision will be brought to life during the custom design process.
Give us a call and schedule an appointment – we are here for YOU!
1. Rings have long been a symbol of union and commitment, and can be traced back to pre-history, when cavemen created chords of braided grass to tie around the waist, ankles and wrists of their chosen mates.
2. Many believe the first recorded diamond engagement ring was given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria on his proposal to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. The ring was set with thin, flat diamonds arranged in the shape of an “M”.
3. Ancient cultures thought that the third finger on the left had a vein (called Vena Amoris) that ran directly to the heart. Although this has been proven wrong, the tradition of wearing an engagement ring on this finger has remained.
4. In the 18th Century, it was popular for a man to present a ‘posy’ ring, a simple gold band inscribed with a line of rhyming verse. These would also be given as a sign of friendship and loyalty, or as a memorial ring.
5. If you were proposed to in the Victorian era, you were likely to receive a snake ring, as they symbolized eternity.
6. It is becoming more common for couples to choose the engagement ring together, with nearly a third of modern brides being present when the ring is purchased.
At J. Thomas Jewelers we are experts in assisting you with the selection of your engagement ring. Whether it’s a classic or modern design you are looking for, or if you prefer the charm of an antique style, our selection of rings offers something for everyone.
Want to create your own? Your vision will be brought to life during the custom design process.
Give us a call and schedule an appointment – we are here for YOU!