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 The
tradition of the engagement ring dates back to ancient Roman times
when an iron hoop was worn as a symbol of a life cycle and the
union of a man and woman for that life cycle. old eventually replaced
the iron and Christians adopted the tradition which then became
part of the wedding service. The engagement ring being the intent
to be betrothed and then the wedding ring to cement the union.
Diamonds were brought into the equation
because it was believed they had magical qualities that protected
the wearer from forces of evil, probably because of its resistance
to fire and steel. Diamonds were discovered hundreds of years
before the era of Christ and were first discovered in India. They
believed that the colour of the gem reflected the caste of the
wearer, hence pure white diamonds were the most precious.
Over the centuries the diamond has
become associated more with romance and the ultimate gift of love.
Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented a diamond ring to Mary
of Burgundy in 1477 as a symbol of matrimonial fidelity and the
tradition of the engagement ring was well and truly born.
 It
was said that cupid's arrows were tipped with diamonds and the
word itself comes from the Greek "adamas" meaning unconquerable.
The Greeks believed the fire in the diamond reflected the constant
flame of true love, so what better symbol to have in an engagement
ring?
David Connor Designs has a large
range of hand made engagement rings already made up. However,
if you have something particular in mind we are only too happy
to draw up designs, supply stones and let you be the designer
for your special ring. We can guide you on the practicalities
of your ideas and show you the ring part finished so that any
changes can be made easily before the ring is finished. This takes
all the worry out of having a ring made up as you get to see it
in all its stages allowing adjustments to be made.
See
examples in our online photo gallery
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