Diamond engagement rings are a classic marker of true love. But have you ever questioned why diamond engagement rings are so popular and how this came about?
Where do diamonds come from?
Discovered in the 19th century, diamonds are a beautifully timeless gemstone. Mined from clusters found in primarily South African mines, diamonds actually begin as carbon in the Earth’s mantle. Extreme pressure and heat change the molecular structure of this carbon into a lattice, forming the diamonds. A host rock called Kimberlite then transports the diamonds and other molten fragments to the Earth’s surface, or ‘crust’. This then emerges through small volcanic eruptions, which cool and harden to form the rock enclosing the diamonds.
How did the diamond engagement ring become so popular?
So, how did this volcanic material become the symbol of love and commitment we know it as today?
The diamond engagement ring has a very interesting history. It may surprise many that it is not an intrinsically rare and valuable material. In fact, there are supposedly more diamonds than there is demand for diamonds. Moreover, the diamond has not always been the hallmark of the engagement ring.
Before the 1940s, gemstones such as opal and sapphire were far more popular on engagement rings than diamonds were. Due to their abundance, diamonds were declining in value at the time. So in 1938, a company called De Beers launched a marketing campaign to change that.
Around this time, De Beers owned the majority of the diamond mines. Therefore, it was in their interest to increase market demand for diamonds. In 1938, they launched one of the most successful marketing campaigns of the 20th century. Hiring marketing firm N.W Ayer, they worked to promote the diamond as an exclusive and meaningful gemstone. They launched newspaper campaigns likening the ‘unique and precious’ nature of diamonds to that of Picasso and Dali paintings. Popular celebrity couples were also pictured wearing diamond engagement rings. In 1947, the campaign hit a peak when the popular slogan ‘diamonds are forever’ was created. This featured as a slogan on many of De Beers’s advertisements and even formed part of a Bond film title.
Through this marketing, diamonds then became seen as a luxury synonymous with love and union. It was as if no other stone was now apt for the engagement ring other than a diamond. The sales of diamonds increased from 23 million US dollars in 1939 to 2.1 billion US dollars by 1979.
Why should I buy a diamond engagement ring?
The short answer is: you don’t have to. But tradition, however it is created, is not your enemy. Diamonds still carry this same value of love and commitment today, and there is something beautiful about committing to your partner in such a traditional way.
A diamond engagement ring is also a surprisingly practical choice. As one of the hardest natural substances, they carry a robust quality that means they can be worn daily. This also makes them a durable yet charming heirloom to pass down in your new family.
The clarity of the diamond not only gives it everlasting beauty, but also versatility. Due to their neutral colour, diamond rings can complement any colour and are adaptable to any fashion style. Moreover, they can be combined with any other jewellery without clashing and is an effortlessly classy way to elevate an outfit. Coming in all different shapes, cuts, and sizes, there is a diamond ring for everyone.
Of course, you will know your partner and their tastes best. But here are some varied recommendations to get you started in the search for your perfect diamond engagement ring.
Recommendations for diamond engagement rings
Circular and simplistic: Certified Diamond 0.31ct H SI1 GIA Diamond Engagement Ring FCD28380
This ring has a charming minimalism to it and is the quintessential diamond engagement ring. The round-cut solitaire diamond is housed in a neat, elevated Tiffany-style four-claw setting. A classic beauty, this contender is perfect for a partner who prefers something on the delicate and dainty side. Moreover, crafted from platinum, it boasts great longevity and is perfect for everyday wear.
Square-shaped splendour: Certified Diamond 0.50ct D SI1 GIA Diamond Engagement Ring FCD28348
For something a little more contemporary, this engagement ring features one round-cut diamond set inside a halo of smaller diamonds. This halo detail has a dazzling radiance under light and is well-suited to those who love a bit of glitz and glamour. Also crafted from platinum, you can be assured that your ring will dazzle for a lifetime.
Burst of colour: James Moore 18k White Gold Yellow Diamond Ring JM4334
Although it is sometimes beneficial, diamond rings don’t have to be strictly devoid of colour. This ring features a bouquet of round-cut diamonds, with a lively yellow diamond set between two white diamonds. Its elegant 18-carat white gold band makes it a piece that is bound to stand the test of time. Providing a beautiful pop of colour that is bound to turn heads, this diamond engagement ring is a fabulous choice for someone looking for something more unconventional.
Bold and beautiful: James Moore 18k White Gold 3 Stone Diamond 3.00ct Ring JM9035
This timeless beauty is the most luxurious choice on our list. A perfect future heirloom, this 18-carat white gold band has three diamonds set into it that weigh 3 carats in total. The centremost diamond is round cut and held in place with a pronged setting and is framed by two stunning pear-cut diamonds. A truly graceful and exceptional piece, this will surely be treasured for a lifetime or three.
To summarise, diamond engagement rings boast a lot of advantageous qualities that make them a popular choice for engagement rings. Most notably, they have been popularised for their connotations of true love and partnership. Would you or did you propose with a diamond ring? We would love to hear your stories in the comments down below!
