Today, diamonds and engagement rings are almost inseparable — but this wasn’t always the case. The tradition of giving a diamond ring as a symbol of commitment is surprisingly recent in jewellery history. From medieval betrothals to Victorian romance and 20th-century marketing, the diamond engagement ring has evolved through centuries of symbolism, craftsmanship, and culture.
Where Did the Tradition of Engagement Rings Begin?
The exchange of rings to mark engagement dates back to ancient Rome, when rings made of iron or gold symbolised a binding contract between two families. By the medieval period, rings became more personal tokens of love rather than business agreements. Early examples from the 15th century featured simple gold bands, sometimes inscribed with romantic messages — much like posy rings.
Gemstones began to appear in engagement rings among the European nobility, but diamonds were a rarity — not yet associated with romance, but rather with wealth and status.
The First Diamond Engagement Ring
The earliest known diamond engagement ring was given in 1477 by Archduke Maximilian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy. The ring featured small, flat-cut diamonds arranged in the shape of an “M,” marking a milestone in jewellery history. This gesture sparked a trend among the European aristocracy, who began incorporating diamonds into their betrothal jewels as a display of prestige and permanence.
Diamonds Through the Georgian and Victorian Eras
During the Georgian era (1714–1837), diamonds were treasured for their rarity but were typically small and rose-cut, offering a gentle glimmer in candlelight. They symbolised purity and strength, yet they remained a luxury only the wealthy could afford.
It was in the Victorian period that diamond engagement rings truly blossomed in popularity. Advances in diamond cutting, global trade, and the discovery of South African diamond mines in the 1860s made the gem more accessible. Victorian designs often featured clusters of small diamonds, paired with coloured gemstones like rubies and sapphires, set in romantic motifs such as hearts, flowers, and serpents.
The Edwardian and Art Deco Diamond Era
By the Edwardian era (1901–1915), diamond engagement rings had become a sign of refined elegance. Platinum settings allowed for delicate lace-like designs that showcased the brilliance of old European-cut diamonds.
The Art Deco period (1920s–1930s) brought bold geometry and glamour to diamond jewellery. Engagement rings featured sharp lines, symmetrical patterns, and contrasting gemstones like onyx and emeralds. These pieces reflected both modernity and enduring love — values that cemented diamonds as the ultimate romantic gem.
How Marketing Made Diamonds a Tradition
While diamonds were already associated with wealth and devotion, it was the De Beers campaign of 1947 that made them synonymous with engagement. The slogan “A Diamond is Forever” transformed the diamond ring into a global tradition, tying the stone’s durability to the concept of everlasting love.
This marketing brilliance resonated across generations, embedding the diamond engagement ring deeply into Western culture — a legacy that continues to influence jewellery trends today.
Why Choose an Antique or Vintage Diamond Ring?
Antique and vintage diamond engagement rings offer a connection to the romance and artistry of the past. Each ring tells a story — from hand-cut Georgian rose diamonds to the refined Edwardian filigree. Unlike modern mass-produced pieces, these rings were crafted with individuality, often featuring diamonds cut to shine in natural light rather than under electric bulbs.
Choosing an antique or vintage diamond ring is not only a sustainable choice but also a meaningful one — a way to celebrate love with a piece of history that has already stood the test of time.
A Sparkle Through the Centuries
From medieval betrothals to Hollywood glamour, the journey of the diamond engagement ring is one of evolving beauty and enduring symbolism. Though trends change, the meaning remains the same: a promise, sealed in stone, to last forever.
Explore our handpicked collection of antique and vintage rings and find a diamond piece that captures not just light, but love through history.