The history of engagement rings can be traced back to ancient civilizations like the ancient Egyptians and Greeks, who believed that the circular shape of a ring represents eternal love. The use of a ring in an engagement ceremony was first recorded in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy.
During the 19th century, diamonds became increasingly popular in engagement rings. This was largely due to the discovery of diamond mines in South Africa and the success of diamond marketing campaigns that created the popular phrase "A diamond is forever."
In the early 20th century, platinum became the preferred metal for engagement rings due to its strength and ability to hold diamonds securely. During World War II, restrictions on platinum led to the popularity of yellow and white gold engagement rings.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in non-traditional engagement rings, including rings made of alternative materials like titanium or featuring gemstones other than diamonds, like sapphires or emeralds.
Today, engagement rings are an important symbol of commitment and love, often chosen to reflect the personality, style, and values of the couple.
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