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The History Of Engagement Rings
Engagement rings and wedding rings are now an integral part of our society and its rituals. The first known uses of rings being used for symbolic purposes have been traced to several ancient civilisations including those of the Egyptians, Romans and Greeks. Engagement rings were designed to represent the connection of the woman to the man who would eventually become her husband. However, in times gone by the union was usually more of a business transaction than a romantic union.
Ancient engagement traditions
Looking back in to the distant past, experts have suggested that the very first engagement rings were made from plants, leather and other natural materials. They were apparently used to not only represent the connection between the man and the woman, but to also symbolise their connection with the earth.
The Romans fashioned rings from iron which was used to symbolise permanence and strength. The Greeks are credited with the tradition of wearing engagement rings on the fourth finger on the left hand. This is from where the vein of love was thought to run to the heart.
In the ninth century, the idea of making engagement rings out of gold was supported by Pope Nicolas I when gold betrothal rings became a requirement to show the wealth of a groom and his capability to support his wife.
In the thirteenth century, Pope Innocent III declared rings could be made from different metals including iron and silver. A longer engagement period was introduced during this time.
We at Marlows have a beautiful range of diamond engagement rings to choose from.
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