10 Interesting Facts about Engagement Rings

Have you ever wondered how engagement rings first originated? Or why they are worn on the third finger of the left hand? We have the answers here, along with other useful facts and statistics you may not know about engagement rings.

1. Rings have long been a symbol of union and commitment, and can be traced back to pre-history, when cavemen created chords of braided grass to tie around the waist, ankles and wrists of their chosen mates.

2. Many believe the first recorded diamond engagement ring was given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria on his proposal to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. The ring was set with thin, flat diamonds arranged in the shape of an “M”.

3. According to a survey carried out by theknot.com, the average groom spends three months ring shopping, visits four retailers and views 27 rings before making a purchase.

4. Traditionally, an engagement ring should cost between one and three month’s wages, however, the average groom spends 3 weeks’ wages on their chosen ring.

5. The most popular month for proposals is December, with 15% of grooms popping the question around Christmas and New Year.

6. Nowadays, the most popular engagement ring style is a round cut diamond in platinum or white gold.

7. Ancient cultures thought that the third finger on the left had had a vein (called Vena Amoris) that ran directly to the heart. Although this has been proven wrong, the tradition of wearing an engagement ring on this finger has stuck.

8. In the 18th Century, it was popular for a man to present a ‘posy’ ring, a simple gold band inscribed with a line of rhyming verse. These would also be given as a sign of friendship and loyalty, or as a memorial ring.

9. If you were proposed to in the Victorian era, you were likely to receive a snake ring, as they symbolised eternity.

10. It is becoming more popular for couples to choose the engagement ring together, with nearly a third of modern brides being present when the ring is purchased.

Here at Cuttings Jewellers, we have been experts in engagement rings since the 1880s, offering quality, variety and value for money. Whether it’s a modern design you are looking for, or you prefer the charm of an antique style, our range of rings offers something for everyone. You could even have your engagement ring designed from scratch by one of our ring designers. Just give us a call or come and visit us to find out more!