The diamond has been present for millennia in engagement rituals as you are about to discover. Thus, it is entirely legitimate that these rituals have created traditions within various cultures around the world. In Europe as in Asia, diamonds have strong symbolism in marriage proposals. Embark on this journey through time to discover the history and importance of these precious stones in matrimonial rituals.
The engagement ring, a ritual and significant symbolism for centuries
Before delving specifically into diamonds, let's go back in time to learn more about the origins of the marriage proposal ritual. the engagement ring.
Engagement since Antiquity
The engagement ring has been present since antiquity. At that time, it was believed that the ring finger of the left handWas directly connected to the heart. This first ritual, which consists of placing the engagement ring, then the wedding ring on the left hand, signifies infinite love for millennia.
From the Middle Ages, especially in Europe, Women regularly received a ring from their beloved. to show their commitment to a future marriage. At this time in history, it was even forbidden for women to wear a ring on the left ring finger if no one had proposed to them.
In these rituals, the twin rings were born. Thus, the man wore a ring from the engagement to the wedding, which he offered as a pledge of alliance to his wife on the day.
Engagement rings are now an integral part of marriage proposals. Traditionally in Europe, it is the man who chooses this ring and offers it to his beloved on the day of the marriage proposal.
The symbolism of diamonds in matrimonial rituals
The diamond, symbol of commitment and eternal love, has been used since antiquity. It was the Greek and Roman civilizations that associated them with deities at that time. For them, the diamond was a sacred symbol.
Then, from the 15th century, the first engagement diamonds would have officially appeared. Archduke Maximilian of Austria would have indeed offered to Marie of Burgundy a ring adorned with diamonds during his proposal. This gesture marks a turning point in the history of diamonds through wedding rituals, especially in the upper classes.
In the 19th century, the discovery of deposits on the African continent made access to diamonds easier. More people could invest in these jewels adorned with precious stones, which marked the status of the diamond as a sign of commitment and infinite love.
The diamonds are then signs of purity and perpetuity, two essential criteria for a happy and lasting marriage.
Then, it was only in the middle of the 20th century that marketing campaigns around the symbol of the diamond in engagement further developed this enthusiasm for the precious stone before marriage.
The integration of diamonds into these pre-wedding rituals reflects both a historical legacy and an evolution of diamonds becoming more accessible. These are traditions that persist more nowadays in several regions of the world.
The diamond in engagement rituals in Europe
In Europe, diamonds are an integral part of engagement and wedding traditions. Let's focus particularly on Italy and England, where diamonds are widely used in weddings.
In Italy, family diamonds and jewelry are honored
In this country, marriage is a very important event that is anchored in family values for each one. Indeed, it's the union of two people, but above all, the union between two families.
As family ties are sacred in Italy, The marriage proposal and the ceremony are often majestic. and put family relationships at the heart of the event. The marriage proposal then becomes regularly official with the exchange of sumptuous jewelry such as diamond rings, symbolizing eternity and commitment.
The exchanged jewelry has crucial importance, as they are symbolic and familial. They are often diamond-encrusted jewelry passed down within the same family.
Diamonds in England
If you have to remember one tradition concerningmarriage in England, remember this sentence:
"Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Something Blue" which means in French, "Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue".
It is a ritual that has been very prevalent since the Victorian era and symbolizes wishes for happiness, continuity, and prosperity after marriage. The diamond has all its importance to adhere to the tradition of wearing something new. "Something New" symbolizes ensuring a fresh start.
This ritual is thus represented by jewelry adorned with diamonds, such as the engagement ring offered during the marriage proposal.
The Asian culture is interested in diamonds for engagements.
Diamonds are not only important in Europe. In Asian culture, diamonds also have their place in engagement rituals. Discover these traditions which, for some, are more recent.
The late arrival of the diamond in engagement rituals in China
In traditional Chinese cultures, the engagement ring does not exist. The arrival of this piece of jewelry in this country is much more recent. Indeed, it is in the modern Chinese culture that the idea of offering an engagement ring adorned with a beautiful diamond has strengthened.
From now on, many Chinese women appreciate receiving a diamond of at least one carat on this unique day that represents a marriage proposal. For them, the larger the diamond, the more their future husband's love is multiplied.
Hindu weddings and the importance of diamonds
Indian traditions in marriage are also unique. Jewelry is important, as it symbolizes prosperity.
At the wedding, the bride wears gold jewelry, with the "mangalsutra" or the "maang tikka". All the jewelry is adorned with precious stones such as diamonds. which obviously symbolize the purity and eternity of love.
Wedding rings, similar to wedding bands, are worn on the foot by the married couple. These pieces of jewelry are called "bichiya" or "bichua".
Choosing a piece of jewelry to ensure a beautiful inheritance
Are you going to propose to your other half? The ring undoubtedly plays a crucial role in this proposal. Here is some criteria for finding a ring with a diamond who will make the difference on this unforgettable day.
Quality criteria: the 4Cs
To choose a piece of jewelry with a diamond, you need to understand the 4Cs:
Each of these elements has an influence on the aesthetics, quality, and value of the precious stone.
The handmade jewelry making
At Celinni, we make our own jewelry. within our workshops. The diamond dealers own everything essential know-how for working with diamonds and associate them with unique jewelry.
The styles of the ring adorned with one or more diamonds
Obviously, several models exist. For an engagement request, it is preferable to choose a solitaire with a single diamond or a solitaire witha central adorned diamond of several small precious ones.
For more originality, you can choose a diamond indrop shape or square. On our site, the selection of diamond engagement rings is wide to match all styles !
