For most of recorded history, betrothal and marriage have been represented by the wearing of rings. The earliest ones were not precious metal but were usually made of iron. Some betrothal rings were not even of that quality, being made instead of woven grass. Fortunately, engagements were usually quite brief, so they lasted until the marriage, when they were usually replaced with a metal one. Eventually, silver and gold became more commonly used, and the use of gemstones then followed. However, diamonds were almost never included, since they were scarce and extremely expensive, reserved mainly for royalty. Major diamond deposits were found during the 1800s, which increased the supply and lowered the cost, although both were tightly controlled by the mine operators.
Antique engagement rings sometimes reflect cost and rarity of diamonds. Sapphires, amethysts, and rubies were often used instead. Settings, however, were often very ornate, and jewelers mastered the technique of creating rings with delicate, intricate filigree. An antique can be a half century old or a half a millennium old, so there will be a great variance in styles and the gemstones used. As such, there is no true ‘standard’ antique ring.
How a diamond is cut is often the factor most enticing to a prospective bride. Most of the common cuts feature tops that are flat. Round cut stones are quite popular, particularly for a solitaire. The sides have facets that increase the sparkle of the stone, regardless of size. Princess cut engagement rings are also quite popular. This is a stone cut in a square, which is then either mounted as a solitaire with prongs bent over the corners or flush mounted into the metal.
Whenever possible, try on both the engagement and wedding rings together or purchase as a set. Mismatched rings can sometimes become tangled or scratch each other. Jewelry designers solve this problem by creating sets that are meant to be worn together. They have also designed interlocking sets that may be joined be swirls in each band.
At some point in your marriage, you might choose to replace your wedding band, engagement ring, or both with an eternity ring. These are bands with diamonds or other gems set flush in the metal. The gems often circle the entire band, although there are also styles that only have stones on half of the band. Diamonds are commonly used, but they are sometimes alternated with other gems, such as the birthstones of the children. These rings are often purchased to mark a milestone in the marriage, which may be a silver anniversary or any other special occasion. If the styles are compatible, all three rings can be worn together.
Most women wear their rings around the clock, so it is necessary to make sure they fit properly. Sizing metal bands is an easy task for a jeweler, and is usually free when you purchase the rings. If you plan to use heirloom rings you have inherited, it is still not an expensive service to have done. However, rings with gems set completely around the metal, like eternity styles, are not normally sized. That would require removing at least one stone, which could detract from the appearance of the ring.
When shopping for an engagement ring, consider whether you plan to wear it all the time or only for special occasions. A large, elaborate ring can prove troublesome when performing normal activities during the day. Having to remove it many times daily can not only be annoying, but could lead to loss. A less ornate mounting may be preferable for a ring that will seldom be removed.
