The Evolution Of Engagement Rings Ringing It Over The Years

Getting hitched means getting a diamond ring -- and it has been so for many, many years. Here's a compilation of how the design and style of engagement rings (read diamond-studded baubles!) has changed over time

1400s

The first diamond ring dates back to 1400

It was not before 1477 that the first diamond engagement ring was commissioned by Archduke Maximilian of Austria for his bride, Mary of Burgundy. Before that, rings were made using ivory, flint, bone, copper, or iron to mark the occasion of a union or alliance between two parties.

1500s

The emergence of the Gimmel ring in the 1500s

In 1525, Catherine Bora and Martin Luther affirmed their union with a Gimmel ring. A Gimmel ring essentially has two-three hoops that come together to form one ring. After the engagement, the bride and groom would each wear one part of the ring. After the wedding, the bands would be reconnected so that the bride could wear the unified ring.

1800s

Popularity of the Edwardian style in the 1800s

It was not until the 1840s that engagement rings began to emerge as a trend in the U.S. Engagement rings were known for their delicate aesthetic with intricate details in the Edwardian era. A large diamond was the center of attention and a jeweller had to fit as many diamonds around the large diamond as possible. This was done by setting smaller diamonds over filigree work or other lace-like patterns.

1900

Enter European-cut diamonds in 1900

This was a time when the European cut diamond was a preferred choice for engagement rings. These rings, with a hand-cut round stone, remained popular until the 1930s.

1920s

The influence of Art Deco in the '20s