15 Interesting Facts about Engagement Rings

If you are shopping for handmade diamond rings in New York, there is a lot that you need to know. However, there is more to these precious symbols than just carats and cuts. Here are 15 interesting facts to read before you begin your search.

1. Engagement rings have been exchanged for centuries. In fact, Ancient Egyptians used to exchange rings once they were wed.
2. Engagement rings are traditionally worn on the 4^th finger of the left hand because the people in Ancient Egypt thought it contained a vein which led directly to the heart.
3. In the past, it was suggested that a man spend three months of his salary on an engagement ring. Today, the average man spends about 3 weeks of his salary on an engagement ring.
4. Engagement rings were traditionally given as a sign that the man could support the woman financially. Sometimes, they also gave their fiancés a small bag of gold coins to strengthen the commitment.
5. The average man spends between 1 to 3 months ring shopping before pulling the trigger.
6. A round, brilliant-cut ring is currently the most popular stone for engagement rings, followed by a princess cut.
7. Platinum and white gold are the most-used precious metals when it comes to designing engagement rings.
8. The most engagement rings are purchased in the month of December. In fact, it’s estimated that 15% of couples get engaged during this festive month. Other big holidays such as Valentine’s Day, Thanksgiving, and New Year’s Eve are other big proposal dates.
9. Many couples choose to ring shop together. It’s estimated that almost 60% of women are involved in picking out their own engagement rings.
10. In Ancient Rome, engagement rings were given along with a small key. It is symbolic of the receiver of the ring being the key to the giver of the ring’s heart.
11. During medieval times, many in England chose to wear their engagement rings on their thumbs or middle fingers. Sometimes it was even on the right hand!
12. Because the Romans were so concerned about the disintegration of the precious metal, most women had 2 separate engagement bands. One, which was gold, was worn out in public. The other, which was iron, was worn around the house while managing the chores.
13. In 1477, the Archduke of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring, starting the diamond ring trend.
14. In colonial times, many men used a thimble to propose to their fiancés. Then, the women used the thimble to make their own rings. How romantic!
15. Buying your engagement and wedding bands together will do more than just save you money; it will also ensure that they fit together perfectly.

Whether you choose to buy one of the handmade diamond rings in New York or opt for a vintage set, purchasing an engagement ring is an important step that many men have taken before you!

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