Some people dream about their weddings from the time they’re young children. We imagine the beautiful white dress, the perfect outdoor venue, and — of course — Mr./Ms. Right.
Of course, there’s a lot more to it than the wedding. Nowadays, every part of the wedding experience is a big deal — the proposal, the engagement party, the bridal shower, the bachelor/bachelorette party, and more.
The very first thing involved in the wedding process is the proposal. Traditionally, this means that one member of the relationship will ask for the other’s hand in marriage, and present them with a stunning engagement ring.
For many people, this ring absolutely must be a diamond. According to the American Gem Society, the tradition of giving a diamond ring for a proposal dates back to the 15th century. They explain, “In 1477, Archduke Maximillian of Austria commissioned the very first diamond engagement ring on record for his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy. This sparked a trend for diamond rings among European aristocracy and nobility.”
It wasn’t until centuries later that the diamond became popular in America, though. The American Gem Society explains, “In 1947, De Beers launched its now classic slogan, “A Diamond is Forever.” This campaign spurred even more sales. The implied durability of a diamond conveyed the meaning in the American psyche that marriage is forever. A diamond’s purity and sparkle have now become symbols of the depth of a man’s commitment to the woman he loves in practically all corners of the world.”
And although diamond rings are beautiful, they are not the be-all end-all of engagement rings. Today, there are more engagement ring options than ever before, and some of the nontraditional ones are the most beautiful of all.
These 20 one-of-a-kind engagement rings will prove that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get an absolutely stunning ring!
Source : https://www.littlethings.com/unique-engagement-rings/