Engagement rings have been a symbol of love and commitment for centuries, and diamond engagement rings have been the standard for over a century. Among the many styles of diamond engagement rings available today, sidestone diamond engagement rings stand out as a popular choice. Let’s dive into the history of sidestone diamond engagement rings and explore their enduring appeal.
The History of Diamond Engagement Rings:
Before we delve into the history of sidestone diamond engagement rings, let’s first explore the history of diamond engagement rings in general. The tradition of giving engagement rings dates back to ancient Rome, where women wore rings made of iron to signify their ownership by their husbands-to-be.
In the Middle Ages, rings featuring gemstones were given as tokens of love and devotion, and the practice of exchanging engagement rings became more widespread. It wasn’t until the late 1800s, however, that diamond engagement rings became the norm. This was due in part to a marketing campaign launched by the De Beers diamond company, which popularized the concept of the “diamond engagement ring.”
Early Designs
The earliest sidestone diamond engagement rings were simple in design, featuring a center diamond flanked by two smaller diamonds. This design was popular in the Art Deco era of the 1920s and 1930s, and was often paired with a platinum setting.
In the 1940s and 1950s, sidestone diamond engagement rings became more elaborate, with larger side stones and intricate settings. This was due in part to advances in jewelry-making techniques, which allowed for more intricate designs.
Contemporary Styles
Today, sidestone diamond engagement rings are available in a wide variety of styles and designs, from classic to contemporary. Here are some of the most popular styles:
Three-Stone Rings: Three-stone sidestone diamond engagement rings feature a center diamond flanked by two smaller diamonds, symbolizing the past, present, and future of a couple’s relationship.
Halo Rings: Halo sidestone diamond engagement rings feature a center diamond surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds, which can enhance the sparkle and brilliance of the center diamond.
Split Shank Rings: Split shank sidestone diamond engagement rings feature a band that splits as it approaches the center diamond, creating a unique and eye-catching look.
Vintage Rings: Vintage sidestone diamond engagement rings feature intricate and ornate designs that are inspired by jewelry styles of the past.
Modern Rings: Modern sidestone diamond engagement rings feature clean lines and simple designs, often with a focus on geometric shapes and symmetry.