4aDiamond.com is pleased to present the answers to frequently asked questions about how diamonds made the leap from the coal pit to the hand of the bride-to-be.
Q. WHY IS A DIAMOND USED IN ENGAGEMENT RINGS? In the 15th Century, diamonds were uncut and were valued not for their beauty, but as a symbol of strength and protection.
The tradition began in 1477 Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented the first diamond engagement ring to Mary of Burgundy. Their wedding took place 24 hours later. (Must have been one heck of a ring!)
Q. WHY ARE WEDDING AND ENGAGEMENT RINGS WORN ON THE FOURTH FINGER? Many people believe that this practice derives from the Egyptian myth that states the ring finger follows the "vena amoris" (vein of love) which supposedly runs directly to the heart.
Q. WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN AN ENGAGEMENT RING AND A WEDDING RING? The engagement ring is given to symbolize an intent of marriage and traditionally has only a single diamond in it -- the "solitaire." It is usually presented when the man proposes to the woman and is worn throughout the engagement. (In lieu of a diamond engagement ring, a pull-tab from a Coca Cola can may be substituted in a "emergency proposal" situation).
