Let me see that ring!

     This is Katie again, catching up from a few weeks ago!      

 A few weeks ago I wrote about proposals and the element of surprise.  This week, I want to talk about the ring (the other potential surprise!).  Normally, right after the “how did he do it?” comes the “let’s see the ring!” The diamond business in western culture is a booming industry, a large portion of which is comprised of engagement and wedding rings.  While I am not traditional about most things bridal, the rings are something I do care a lot about.  It is meant to signify to all of society that you are a taken lady (or gent!).  As far as I have noticed, the wearing of an engagement or wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand is often cross-cultural tradition.  This got me to thinking about how the giving and wearing of an engagement ring got started in the first place.

            According to ancient Egyptian mythology, the wearing of a ring on the fourth finger of the left hand began with the belief that a major vein leading directly to the heart branched out into that finger.  The idea of a ring symbolizes lifelong and everlasting commitment.  The addition of a diamond, which is the strongest gemstone on the planet, is also meant to symbolize strength in the couple as they move forward in their lives together.  “Engagement” rings were first commonly used by the Romans, but didn’t catch on in the western world until the 13^th century.  They became standard in America at the end of the 19^th century, and rings with diamonds included weren’t common until around the 1930’s.  Today, more than 80% of women (in America) will wear an engagement ring before her wedding.

            A quick look at a jewelry store website will reveal that engagement rings come in all shapes, colors, sizes and of course prices.  As the old saying goes, a guy is “supposed” to spend roughly 3 months of his salary on a ring.  In the US, the average ring purchase is $2100.  In my book, that is quite a bit of money, and because every person’s taste is uniquely different it is important to have a general idea of what your partner is looking for (especially if the engagement is a surprise).  Some girls want to pick out their own engagement ring, or don’t want to wear one at all.  Many engagement rings are being created as part of a set with a wedding band, so knowing if the ring comes as a set is important. The passing down of diamonds or engagement rings through the family, to be worn and/or reset by newly engaged family members, is also a unique tradition that is being upheld in many families. There are even some guys out there that are opting to also wear an engagement ring before their wedding!  (okay.....Amanda writing....this reminds me of my post on the MANgagement ring...check it out here, that is, after your done reading Katie's post).

            What does the receiving of or wearing of an engagement ring mean to you?  Did you/do you expect one at your proposal?  Would you like to be surprised by the design or do you have a very specific idea of what you would want to wear?