History of Engagement Rings

The rings Engagement weddings have a long history dating back to ancient times. The ancient Egyptians believed that the vena amoris, a vein that connects the fourth finger of the left hand directly to the heart, was the symbol of eternal love. The Greeks also used rings to symbolize union, its circular shape evoking infinity. But it wasn't until Roman times that the engagement ring became a symbol of marriage promise.

In the Middle Ages, engagement rings were often simple and made of precious metal. Gemstone rings became popular during the Renaissance, when diamonds and other gemstones began to be used to symbolize wealth and power.

The tradition of giving a diamond engagement ring began in the 15th century, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy. Since then, diamonds have become the most common choice for engagement rings.

Over time, the engagement ring has become a universal symbol of love and commitment, often accompanied by a marriage proposal. Traditions and designs vary across cultures and times, but the meaning remains the same: a lifelong commitment to love and support each other.

She represents the intention to get married and spend the rest of her life with her partner. Wearing it shows commitment to this relationship. It is the symbol and the starting point of a new life together. It is often adorned with precious stones, especially diamonds. They symbolize the durability, eternity and indissolubility of love.

The ring may also include other personal symbols, such as birthstones or engravings, which add additional meaning. The engagement ring is not the gift of a day or a moment. You must therefore make this choice with a clear head and in optimal conditions.

Traditionally, the engagement ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand. The Egyptians believed that the vena amoris, a vein that connects the fourth finger of the left hand directly to the heart, was the symbol of eternal love. This tradition has spread to many cultures, and today most people wear their engagement ring on the ring finger of their left hand, above the wedding band.

However, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to wearing an engagement ring. Some prefer to wear it on the right ring finger to avoid an accumulation of rings on one finger. Ultimately, choosing which finger to wear your engagement ring on comes down to personal preference and cultural traditions. It's important to feel comfortable with how you wear it, and choose the method that works best for you.

The engagement ring is offered at the time of the marriage proposal and symbolizes the loving commitment. The main difference between the two rings lies in their symbolism and when they are offered. The engagement ring is given before the wedding as a promise of union, while the wedding ring is given during the wedding ceremony to symbolize the legal union between two people. The engagement ring represents the acceptance of a marriage proposal, while the wedding ring represents the alliance between the spouses.

Unlike engagement, marriage has legal value and involves a legal union between two people. You can choose the engagement ring by surprise or as a couple, while wedding rings are usually chosen together. The engagement ring is traditionally more ornate, elaborate and extravagant than the wedding ring. There wedding band is generally more understated than the engagement ring, often cast in white gold or yellow gold, and may feature a few precious stones. 

 

• Originality: classic? retro? modern ?

You need to define the style of the jewel which must correspond to the tastes and the clothing style of the person who will wear it. If she wears jewelry, especially rings, take inspiration from the style of jewelry she wears. If this is not the case, orient yourself towards a timeless and rather discreet model. Is it a jewel that she can wear and assume daily? If you have your sights set on a solitaire with a colored ruby, sapphire or emerald stone, be sure that she will dare to put it on her finger in all circumstances (or almost) and with all her outfits.

• Form: solitary? supported? trilogies?

The solitaire ring is a typical engagement ring for the marriage proposal. We talk about a solitaire because we use the stone alone and it is she who makes all the value of the ring. It allows you to highlight a precious stone thanks to a very particular setting. The stone is set with at least 4 claws and is raised to better put it in the spotlight. It is necessary to choose the stone carefully because it is it which will make all the beauty and the originality of the jewel. 

The ring constitutes the second part of the ring. You can leave it as it is to let the shine of its metal shine. It is also possible to adapt the ring to the style of the person who will wear it by choosing a ring set with small stones. It can be with paving or a stone surrounded, it is then called solitary accompanied. You can also double the ring or make it take on various more curved or geometric shapes. 

• Size: is she used to wearing discreet or imposing jewellery?

A huge stone can make some people dream while others will struggle to carry it every day. You will find the answer to this question simply by observing what she is already wearing.

• Practicality: does she carry out an activity that often requires her hands?

If your bride has constant activity with her hands, consider a ring that can handle daily wear and tear. The higher the positioning of the central stone, the greater the risk of it snagging on clothing, hair, etc. The probability of taking shocks is also greater. Look for a type of diamond setting close to the finger for an active girl, and perhaps a higher diamond for a very meticulous person.

Rings are made from different metals including white, rose, yellow gold and platinum. Each metal has its advantages, disadvantages and differences in terms of appearance, durability and cost.

• White gold

Pros: White gold is a popular option for engagement rings. It has a similar appearance to sterling silver but with greater durability. It is generally less expensive than platinum and showcases diamonds and other gemstones.

Cons: It may need re-plating in rhodium every few months to maintain its crisp white color. Some people are allergic to nickel, which is frequently used in the alloy for white gold.

• Rose gold

Pros: Rose gold is increasingly popular due to its warm and romantic color. It is often used for vintage or antique style engagement rings. It is generally less expensive than platinum. Cons: It may be more difficult to match with other jewelry or accessories due to its distinctive color.

• Yellow gold

Pros: Yellow gold is a classic choice for engagement rings. It is often associated with tradition and wealth. It is very durable and resistant to scratches and wear.

Cons: It can be difficult to match with other jewelry or accessories due to its distinctive color.

• Platinum

Pros: Platinum is a rare and precious metal known for its beauty and durability. It is heavier and denser than gold, which gives it a more solid and luxurious feel. It is very resistant to wear, scratches and corrosion.

Cons: It is often more expensive than gold, which can make it an expensive option for some people. It may require more frequent maintenance to maintain its brilliant luster.

The choice of stone for an engagement ring largely depends on personal preference. However, there are also practical considerations to take into account. THE guide is traditionally the most popular stone for engagement rings. It is durable and scratch resistant, making it perfect for everyday wear. Diamonds are available in a variety of weight, sizes, shapes and colors. This offers a wide choice of styles to suit different tastes and budgets.

However, diamonds are not the only stones available for an engagement ring. Sapphires, rubies and emeralds are also popular. Sapphires are often used as an alternative to diamonds because they are also durable and scratch resistant. They are available in a variety of colors, from classic blue to pink, yellow and green. Rubies are also popular for their deep red color and their symbolism of passionate love. Emeralds are also a popular option, but they are less scratch resistant than diamonds and sapphires.

Although gemstones are generally preferred for engagement rings, you can also opt for semi-precious stones that come in many colors.

Ultimately, the choice of stone will come down to personal preference and budget. Choose a durable stone that she can wear daily and that suits the lifestyle. Jewelers can help you explore your options and find the perfect stone for your engagement ring.

Find our stone guide to find out more.

The criteria for a quality ring depend on the type of ring and the materials used to make it. However, here are some general criteria to consider when buying a ring:

• The materials

The materials used to make a ring determine its quality. Precious metals such as gold, platinum and silver are often used for higher quality rings. Use gemstones to embellish the ring.

• The making

The quality of the manufacture of the ring is also important. A quality ring should be well crafted with no burrs or flaws. The stones must be well set and the finish must be neat.

• The weight

The weight of the ring can also be a quality criterion. Higher quality rings often have a higher weight. This may indicate that they are made with heavier and higher quality materials.

• Sustainability

A quality ring should be durable and wear resistant. The materials used must be resistant to corrosion, wear and scratches.

Finding the right ring size to gift can be a bit tricky, but there are several methods to help you choose the right size:

1. Discreetly ask the person you are buying the ring for what their finger size is. If you don't want it to be obvious, try asking him in a subtle way or calling on one of his close friends, family members to get this information.
2. If you don't have access to this information, try to find a ring that she wears often and that fits her well. Measure the inside diameter of the ring using a tape measure or a ruler, then use a ring size chart by downloading, for example, a virtual ring sizer to find the corresponding size.
3. If you can't get a ring for reference, you can use a plastic or metal ring sizer to measure her finger size. Ring sizers are commonly available at jewelers and jewelry supply stores. You can also find ring sizers online to print at home.
4. If you do not know his ring size despite your efforts, know that for a woman the average size is 52-54, and 60-62 for a man. If you ever hesitate between two sizes, take the larger one. The fingers may tend to swell and the ring will be easier for jewelers to adjust.

It is important to note that finger size can vary depending on many factors, such as temperature, weight, and pregnancy. Therefore, the ring may not fit perfectly even if you use one of these methods to measure the ring size.

Star of jewelry in Paris, the engagement ring is the fundamental element of any marriage proposal. We offer it to our better half to declare our love to him and to suggest that he spend his life by our side. We often take great care in choosing the engagement ring, its shape, its metal, its stones and their colors with the help of a jeweler in Paris.

Yet it is what is least visible that has the most value and meaning. The engraving is located inside the engagement ring, out of sight, and sticks against your skin. This is a short text for your fiancée to dedicate this jewel to her.

To choose your engraving, you must take into account the size of your engagement ring so that there is enough room for it to be visible.

As the number of characters is limited, it is generally enough to have the date of marriage or engagement engraved as well as the initials of the two fiancés. If you have the space, you can also engrave a message that reminds you of the other or a sentence that refers to a shared memory.

It is best if the engagement ring is thick to accommodate an engraving. If the ring is too thin, the engraving will be too thin and will fade over time.

You can personalize your engraving by choosing the size, the message and the font which will be adapted to your ring of course.

Engraving your wedding rings with your initials will allow you to keep them even longer because you often stop wearing your engagement ring in favor of your wedding ring.

If your engraving fades or it no longer suits you, you can have it changed in a jewelry store.

A marriage proposal is a crucial moment and an important step in the life of a couple. It is also an opportunity to please your other half by offering him the most important jewel of his life. Even if it is a testimony of love, the question of the price of the engagement ring can quickly arise. Whatever your budget, you are bound to find a suitable engagement ring that will delight your future fiancée.

It is often said that an engagement ring should be worth the price of a month's salary of the person giving it. This rule is more or less followed according to countries and cultures but there is no obligation to rely on it. 

While an engagement ring is often a significant investment, you don't have to spend too much money. The main thing when choosing an engagement ring is to do it with love and thinking about the person you love.

However, a few tips: 

• If you have to put a significant budget into a ring, spend it on a beautiful stone that will reflect the personality of your loved one.
• If your budget is limited, first prefer fine stones to precious stones. Precious stones are emerald, ruby, sapphire and diamond, they are rarer and more expensive than all other stones. There are a multitude of other stones of all colors and all shapes that can adorn your engagement ring at a lower price.

Anyway, it is quite possible to find a ring within your budget. You can visit our site to discover the most beautiful collections of cheap engagement rings or SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT in our showroom in Paris.

Usually we wear thematching band next to the engagement ring on the left ring finger. Traditionally, the wedding ring should be placed first, closest to the heart. We wear the engagement ring on top, as an additional ornament.

The choice of the engagement ring is therefore not trivial. This is an important step before marriage, as it will influence the choice of wedding ring.

Solitaires pair easily with any wedding ring, unless accompanied by several other diamonds. In this case, it is advisable to choose a wedding ring with the same type of setting for visual harmony.

However, there may be situations where these two jewels cannot be combined harmoniously. When the engagement ring is adorned with a large stone, the setting often does not allow the two rings to be combined without leaving a space between them. In these cases, an elegant solution is to wear the engagement ring alone on the right hand.

Some accept the idea that there is a little space and can wear them both on the same finger. We strive to offer models of engagement rings and wedding bands that harmonize perfectly.

Some are afraid to mix alloys, however daring marriages between white gold, pink gold, yellow gold, or even black gold are more and more popular.

Finally, there is no strict rule in terms of association between engagement ring and alliance. Each bride is free to choose the duo that suits her best.

Who could help me in this choice?

Why not ask someone around you to help you and transfer some of the weight of this heavy mission to the shoulders of an accomplice? Whether it's her parents or her best friend, you'll find someone who knows her as well as you...

If you have planned a marriage proposal, your loved ones are surely already aware. In this case, do not hesitate to seek their help in finding the model and size of the engagement ring. They can discreetly ask her for her ring size during a conversation about marriage or jewelry, for example.

They can also accompany him to a jewelry store to have him try on rings in an innocuous way and then communicate his preferences to you.

Another way is to ask a loved one who is already married to have them try on their ring to see if the ring size is right for them. Has she ever referenced the engagement ring a friend received when she proposed? She will undoubtedly have given her opinion on this jewel, which allows you to appreciate what she likes or not.

If your ring is too small or too big, don't panic! It is always possible to have the ring fitted to your size. Over time, your wedding band or engagement ring may become too small and need adjusting.

The ideal is to go to a jewelry store to precisely measure your finger if you do not know your precise size. A well-fitting ring should slip on easily and pass your knuckle with slight resistance.

To enlarge or shrink a ring or wedding band, seek the help of a jeweler. Regardless of the metal or the number of sizes you want to save, a jeweler will always be able to enlarge your ring. The operation will be more or less delicate depending on the type of ring and setting.

The engagement ring will accompany your wife throughout her life. Whether it's daily life or a sudden movement, the ring could be damaged over the years, without this being related to its quality.

It is therefore important to turn to a jeweler who guarantees the repair of your jewel in the long term. At DC Gems, because we are sure of the quality of our jewelry, we offer you a 10-year guarantee.

This is why, in addition to our warranty, we offer you an after-sales service to help you maintain and repair your DC Gems jewellery. In the event of a problem, you can contact us for advice and information on repairs and maintenance of your engagement ring.

It is also important to take care of your jewelry, find our maintenance guide to find out more.

A diamond's journey is a long and complex process.

Diamonds are formed in the depths of the Earth, from where they are extracted and sorted. Then they are polished and cut.

They are delivered to labs for grading and then eventually they are sold to jewelry stores around the world. 

This section is an in-depth look into that journey, with a mix of fun facts and technical insights that will help any diamond lover truly understand how a diamond travels from mine to your hands. 

Did you know that diamonds form under extreme temperatures and pressures? 

The temperature should be 1700 - 2400 degrees Fahrenheit The pressure should be 650.000 - 870.000 pounds per square inch All of this takes place 140-180 miles below the earth's surface. 

Do you know how DC diamonds are formed? 

Because diamond octahedron crystals are formed at extremely high temperatures and excessively high pressures (up to 1 million 500.000 pounds per square pressure) and are slow growing, they have a natural tendency to be free of twinning, knotting or surface graining which could interfere with the polishing process. These "glassies" as they are called represent less than 1% of all rough diamonds. 

Where in the world do diamonds come from? 

Originally: India, Brazil, South Africa, Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Congo. Today they are also present in Guinea, Lesotho, Sierra Leone, China, Tanzania, Ivory Coast, Guyana, Central African Republic, Canada and Australia 

50% soil / mines / pipes 48% alluvial (banks and marine) 2% other 

Now some fun facts! 

How much dirt did you sift through to find 1 carat of diamonds? About 200-250 tons 

Less than 0,10 cts in the rough What are the Top 3 mines in the world? And how many diamonds are produced? Botswana – 24 million carats Russia 17,8 million carats Canada – 10.9 million carats 

2-The Sorting Note: At this point the diamonds are still rocks/crystals, they are not yet polished diamond jewelry quality

DeBeers sorts about 45%. The other 55% are classified in Mumbai, Antwerp and Johnannesberg, South Africa.

How long does it take to sort diamonds? 

Usually 6 weeks depending on production. The sites are held 10 times a year (every 6 weeks).

After a diamond is retrieved, it will need to be sorted according to certain categories before being sold.

Diamonds for cleaving Diamonds for sawing Diamonds for cutting Industrial diamonds 

So where are they going?

A rough diamond can be sorted according to 3 distinct categories.

Gem quality - 20% Quality diamonds are composed of at least 99,95% carbon and can be more than 99,99% pure carbon. This is the type of quality that will be used in the jewelry industry, as these diamonds must be of good color and clarity; however, the shape at this stage is not very important because the diamond still needs to be cut. 

Industrial Grade - 80% Examples of uses: Yellow color is preferred for this section due to greater hardness. A diamond here will be classified according to the weight (less than 3 carats), but also according to their number of points. Examples of uses include machining of all types (automotive, aviation, marine), tools for drilling, abrasive and polishing compounds of all kinds...

there is very little in our lives today that is untouched by industrial diamonds. Other Crushing-boart or boart - This is a small percentage and the lowest quality diamond there is. These diamonds are usually crushed and will be used in the form of diamond dust for diamond polishing. 

3-The Size (cut)

How many cutting centers are there in the world? 

The Original Five: Antwerp, Belgium; Tel Aviv, Israel; Bombay, India; New York; South Africa newer centers: Asia, Russia, Canada 

Regular diamonds take hours or weeks depending on the cut. Some famous large diamonds took a year to cut! However, DC diamonds take around 1 week to cut.

4-Laboratories

After cutting, the diamonds can go to laboratories to be graded and receive certificates. The best diamonds in the world are graded by industry experts in accredited labs, but today some private labels are also their own grades. There are several major laboratories: GIA, HRD, IGI, EGL-usa,

5-Sell 

To whom are the diamonds sold? 

Manufacturers, Distributors, Retailers and Collectors Many famous diamonds are in the hands of private collectors or museums (Smithsonian, Crown Jewels, etc.) 

6-The consumer 

How long does it take for diamonds to reach you as a consumer? 

Once the rough diamonds are sorted, it takes around 5 months for a diamond to reach the consumer. Most diamond makers work on these 3 areas: Designing the manufacturing process In the manufacturing process Finished at the certification lab and ready for market 

85% of couples buy a diamond engagement ring 2/3 of all women have their own diamonds Oldest known diamond? An Indian diamond weighing 116 carats, pendant (pear shape) with random faceting dating from 1028. The diamond is recognized as the only gift that can pass through 4 or 5 generations in a family and represent the same value and emotion for everyone owners.