So you like it and you want to put a ring on it, eh? Good.
It takes a lot for a person to admit that he could not live with another person. So much so that once it is realized, reflected upon, and decided, it is essential that such a moment is sealed. Then enters the need for an engagement ring. If you’re ready to look for engagement rings for the one you love, starting off with this article will be very ideal. It will introduce you to the real essence of engagement rings and their many aspects. It will make looking for the best engagement ring very simple as you would easily know what to exactly look for. Read on, learn, and yes — congratulations on finding your forever!
Table of Contents
What Is So Special About An Engagement Ring?
People all over the world know the practice of wearing and receiving an engagement ring. Of the seven billion people in the world, there are those that get so lucky and meet the love of their life. They are the ones that go out of their way to give and receive an engagement ring. This very practice is known among all races, religions, nationalities, and cultures. It’s impossible to be an adult and not know what an engagement ring is. But what is an engagement ring in the first place? What makes it so special?
Engagement rings are different from ordinary rings. They are the kind of rings that are dedicated to sealing one’s intention to marry another. Though they can look like any other ring, the symbol that it carries with it is heavier, more magical, and more special.
Different Kinds of Engagement Rings
Of the many kinds of engagement rings, you mainly need to choose between two different kinds of settings. The most popular kind of settings are as follows:
1. Solitaire
Of the many unique designs available for engagement rings, this setting is the most popular. This is the most popular setting because it’s impossible to go wrong with this style. Its sole diamond placement is simply elegant and timeless.
2. Halo and Double Halo
This kind of setting is the second most popular. This kind of setting makes one’s engagement ring look bigger and brighter. This can be done with diamonds of the same color or diamonds of different colors.
The Many Aspects of an Engagement Ring
Religious Aspect
It can be said that engagement rings mainly originated from religious practices. Today though, most people wear it for traditional reasons and not due to any religious affiliation. However, there are still some religions that demand (officially or unofficially) engagement rings to follow certain standards. Some examples of such standards are as follows:
- Some religions require given engagement rings to be of a certain amount. This is in order to clearly demonstrate a man’s loyalty and devotion to a woman.
- Some religions demand engagement rings to be simple with modest or minimal design to promote humility and look down on putting importance on earthly things
This is why if you’re about to give an engagement ring and you want to respect your religious practices and the religious practices of your partner, it’s best to inquire if there are any standards that need to be met.
Cultural Aspect
Various cultures see engagement rings differently. In the West, engagement rings usually come in platinum or gold with a diamond. It is given to a woman who agrees to marry her partner. Some societies also have men wearing engagement rings that can also come with a diamond or a gemstone. In some cultures, both men and women wear the exact engagement ring upon being engaged to each other. Hence, it’s important that you be aware of your cultural practices and your partner’s cultural practices when it comes to engagement rings and marriage proposals.
Social Aspect
It will be hypocritical to deny the fact that society puts pressure on everyone when it comes to engagement rings. Both men and women are bombarded with societal pressure to give and receive the biggest, brightest, and most expensive diamond ring possible. This is something that even TV ads consistently promote. This is why most women are conditioned to demand such. In truth, one is very free to decide on the kind of engagement ring to give. It all ultimately boils down to how much you know your partner. It is not wrong at all to opt for other gemstones. There are no rules when it comes to love and showing love. We were just convinced that there are. But if you’re the traditional kind, then it’s best to stick to the classic and opt for a diamond. Opt for whatever it is that will make you and your partner happy.
Personal Aspect
Of all possible aspects to consider, this one is the most important. Just so it’s clear, you are very free to do things your own way. You should not limit yourself to looking at diamonds. You can also check other gemstones of your liking. This will all the more be ideal if your partner has a unique or alternative taste. If your partner is environmentally conscious and highly ethical, you can even opt to look at lab-grown diamonds. If your partner does not want diamonds at all, you can check out the following gems: emerald, ruby, morganite, moissanite, cubic zirconia, aquamarine, topaz, sapphire, and amethyst.
