engagement rings

Unique rings with a story for a unique and lasting marriage proposal

An engagement is one of the most beautiful promises we can make to another person: We want to marry each other and spend our lives together. This also includes a commitment to sustainability in love, and what could be more fitting than a sustainable engagement ring? Traditionally, engagement involves getting down on one knee—and, of course, an engagement ring.

The jewelry is presented by the partner as a gift during the marriage proposal. What could be more fitting than a ring? After all, the closed circle represents infinity because it has no beginning or end – just like love. The proposal ring thus serves as a symbol of the marriage vows and thus as a romantic symbol of love. The person wearing it thereby indicates that they are engaged.

Engagement rings were already common in ancient Egypt: More than 4,000 years ago, partners gave them to each other as a symbol of their commitment. Back then, the jewelry was made of papyrus, ivory, or leather. In ancient Rome and the early Middle Ages, things were less sentimental. The iron rings symbolized either that a man was claiming a woman or that the dowry had been paid. Starting in the 15th century, the custom of giving a gold engagement ring with a stone developed.

In most Western countries, engagement rings are traditionally worn only by women, with the man handing them over to her. But men have long been allowed to wear such rings on their fingers as well—and they do, too, including singers Ed Sheeran and Michael Bublé. After all, women can now propose to their loved ones as well. And among same-sex couples, it's common for both to wear the symbolic promise on their fingers.

Beautiful variety: The selection of engagement rings

Stylish engagement rings are designed in a variety of ways, whether new or vintage. Depending on the style, they have slightly different meanings—but, of course, they always represent a sense of commitment:

The classic rings for a marriage proposal are solitaire rings. They are crowned by a single, sparkling, large, brilliant-cut diamond. This precious gemstone is meant to demonstrate that the chosen one is unique. The design dates back to the New York-based luxury jeweler Tiffany & Co., which invented it in 1886.
Toi et moi rings contain two gemstones or one stone with a pearl. This combination represents a loving couple wishing to enter into a union. The romantic name refers to this: The French expression translates as "you and I." None other than Napoleon Bonaparte presented the first of these rings to his wife, Josephine, in 1796.
Trilogy engagement rings feature three adjacent gemstones. They are either the same size, or a large stone is flanked by two smaller ones. They symbolize a specific time in the couple's life: past, present, and future. They thus allude to their future life together. A trilogy ring adorned the hand of the now-Duchess Meghan after her engagement to Prince Harry.
An entourage ring features a large, colorful, sparkling gemstone in the center. Its special effect is achieved by being surrounded by several smaller brilliant-cut diamonds. Hence the name: "entourage" is French for "to encircle." Both the future Princess Diana and Kate Middleton, now the Princess of Wales, wore such an engagement ring.

Diamonds are the most popular stones for engagement rings. A 1-carat diamond, for example, will sparkle on the ring. But it doesn't always have to be the classic! Other stones are just as beautiful and made for special moments. Engagement rings with sapphires embody unconditional devotion. These gemstones are typically deep blue, but they are also available in other colors.

Emerald engagement rings stand out with their sparkling green. This is the color of hope—and thus symbolizes a happy marriage. Of course, there are also engagement rings without any stones at all.

Gold is a particularly popular material for engagement rings. However, the choice depends on your taste. You can also choose an engagement ring made of silver, platinum, or white gold.

Which finger should the engagement ring be worn on – and why?

In our country, an engagement ring traditionally glitters on the ring finger of the left hand. This custom dates back to an ancient idea – that of the vena amoris, the vein of love. The ancient Egyptians, Romans, and Greeks believed that such a vein led from this finger directly to the heart. In this case, the wedding ring belongs on the ring finger of the right hand.

However, this isn't a strict rule. In countries like Italy and Switzerland, it's the other way around: There, the engagement ring sits on the fourth finger of the right hand.

What do I do with the engagement ring after the wedding?

At the wedding, the couple exchanges wedding rings—but what happens to the engagement ring? You can continue wearing the beautiful jewelry, for example, like this:

The engagement ring remains on the left ring finger, the wedding ring moves to the right hand.
Both rings sit together on the right ring finger. The engagement ring then becomes a stacking ring. It's called that because it sits before the wedding ring.
The engagement ring can serve as a pendant on a chain and hang around the neck.
You can pass the engagement ring on within the family—as Prince William did. He gave his mother Diana's engagement ring to Kate.

Secondhand engagement rings are particularly romantic symbols of love

A vintage engagement ring is a stylish piece of jewelry that is on trend and that not everyone has.

The ring carries a story within it: The old engagement ring was once used as a symbol of love. The previous wearer certainly received it with great joy and wore it proudly until the wedding. That's a very romantic and beautiful idea.
A used engagement ring is sustainable: Unlike a new ring, no additional precious metals or gemstones need to be mined for it. This saves valuable resources and protects nature.
The jewelry is unique and timelessly beautiful: An antique engagement ring is a unique piece with a timeless design. It allows you to further emphasize your personality. Furthermore, this jewelry isn't a fleeting fashion trend: It's a classic and never goes out of style.
Vintage engagement rings are high-quality: Made from precious materials like real gold and diamonds, these pieces are distinguished by their high quality. However, these exclusive rings usually cost significantly less when purchased secondhand.

How do I find the perfect vintage engagement ring?

You don't buy an engagement ring for yourself, but for your partner. Therefore, the most important thing is that it matches your loved one's taste. The jewelry your loved one already owns can provide a good guide: Do they prefer white gold or gold? Do they love blue sapphires, or would they prefer a classic diamond? A timeless vintage engagement ring is always a good choice, as it's something truly special and a timeless one-of-a-kind piece.

It's important that the ring really fits your finger. Learn how to determine the correct ring size in our vintage rings section.

Feel free to take advantage of our expert knowledge!We are happy to answer any questions you may have about the valuation or origin of the jewelry. We are here for you.contactwith us!