The History and Tradition of Engagement Rings

In short: Engagement rings date back to ancient Rome, but the diamond version took off after 1477, when Archduke Maximilian gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond ring — and again after a 1940s campaign made diamonds the norm.

Ancient origins

The Romans exchanged betrothal rings, worn on the fourth finger because of a belief that a vein there ran to the heart. Rings have signaled a promise to marry ever since.

The first diamond engagement ring

In 1477, Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring — the first recorded of its kind, and the start of diamonds as a symbol of engagement.

How diamonds became standard

Diamond rings stayed rare until the 20th century, when the 1947 'A Diamond is Forever' campaign turned them into the expected choice for a proposal.

Modern traditions

Today the tradition is wide open — lab-grown diamonds, colored stones and personalized designs all sit comfortably alongside the classic solitaire.

History of engagement rings: frequently asked questions

When did engagement rings begin?

They date back to ancient Rome, with betrothal rings worn on the ring finger.

Who gave the first diamond engagement ring?

Archduke Maximilian of Austria, to Mary of Burgundy in 1477.

Why do we use diamonds?

A 1940s advertising campaign, 'A Diamond is Forever', made diamonds the standard choice.

Why the fourth finger of the left hand?

From the ancient belief in a vein running from that finger straight to the heart.