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Couples in long-term relationships may wonder whether or not they really need an engagement ring. Surely there is no need to follow this tradition when you both already know that you are fully committed to each other.
The answer isn’t as simple as a yes or no, as each couple is different. It’s important to make decisions depending on your own preferences, and not what you think you should do or what everybody else has already done.
Is An Engagement Ring Really Necessary?
If you and your partner both treasure the tradition of purchasing an engagement ring to mark your relationship as a couple about to be wed, then you should go ahead and do so.
When it comes to marriage and commitment, everything is entirely subjective. Communicate with your partner and discuss what steps you want to take and when.
In contrast, some couples don’t find it appealing or even necessary to buy a shiny diamond ring to symbolize their commitment. Some feel that a ring is a waste of money that could be better spent elsewhere.
Some may want to hold off on getting a ring until they are in a better place financially. Regardless of the reason, not buying an engagement ring is entirely okay, and it has no bearing on the state of your relationship.
Is It Okay to Not Have an Engagement Ring?
Engagement rings are lovely accessories, but there are no rules stating that couples must have one. It is entirely up to you and your partner to decide what you want to do. If there is to be a marriage proposal, there is still no need for a ring if you both agree that you can do without one.
However, for many people, asking for someone’s hand in marriage with an engagement ring has become a significant ritual. Some couples bypass this by purchasing alternative jewelry such as necklaces or earrings instead of the traditional ring.
What Is the Point of an Engagement Ring?
The tradition of giving an engagement ring to an affianced partner dates back to Ancient Rome. Brides-to-be wore rings to signify mutual agreement, love, and obedience. Over the centuries, it has evolved into the romantic emblem that we all know and love today.
The engagement ring symbolizes loyalty and commitment to your future spouse, as well as the promise of marriage. The design also hints at its meaning. Its shape is circular, with no beginning or end, and has thus become a symbol of love and devotion for all eternity.
The fourth finger of the left hand is widely considered the ring finger, and again, this was because of the Ancient Romans. They believed that this finger had a vein connected directly to the heart, making it the most meaningful place to put a symbol of your love.
However, the truth is that all fingers are connected to the heart in some way, thus debunking this widespread myth. The tradition persists in most countries to this day, but some cultures put their engagement and wedding rings on the fourth finger of the right hand instead.
In the digital age, a close-up photo of the engagement ring has become an integral part of an engagement announcement. This is another new tradition that has emerged in the long history of humans falling in love and committing to one another.
Do Guys Wear Engagement Rings?
For most of history, men did not wear engagement rings because they were expected to buy them for women. However, this is changing. Millennial and Gen Z couples do not feel the need to adhere to antiquated customs and gender roles. Instead, they focus on fairness and commitment—this change can be seen in the jewelry they wear.
Since 2007, there has been a 56% surge in men looking for male engagement rings. According to another poll, 67% of males are willing to wear an engagement ring. Equal partnership between couples has certainly helped men become comfortable enough to get rings of their own.
Men wearing jewelry is not a revolutionary concept, but there are now more options than ever before for average consumers. This can be attributed to the historic progress made by LGBT groups since the 1990s.
Marriage equality across the country—and the world—has opened up new marketing opportunities for men, women, and non-binary couples eager to celebrate their commitments to one another.
What used to be considered specialty jewelry (expensive men’s rings) has become more mainstream and fluid, resulting in more options, styles, and bespoke designs for all customers.
Are Engagement Rings Still Fashionable?
Engagement rings remain incredibly popular all over the world. However, most people don’t realize that this practice is still in its infancy.
Traditionally, the ritual of giving an engagement ring was designated for nobles interested in marrying wealthy upper-class individuals. An engagement ring made with valuable metal and jewels was simply too pricey for commoners.
Salary levels rose during the 1950s economic expansion, and more men were able to offer their partners a ring when they became engaged. The ritual of the higher classes quickly became a custom for people from all walks of life. The number of married couples that opted for an engagement ring has steadily climbed since the 1970s.
The engagement ring craze, in which a man impresses his partner with a proposal, is still going strong today.
Why Buy Engagement Rings at Othergems.com
When you choose to buy your engagement ring from Othergems.com, you can rest assured that you will get the best quality diamond. All engagement rings are very well-crafted and professionally graded.
We have over 30 years of experience providing fantastic services to all our customers. We have a wide variety of ready-made rings to choose from. Our speedy delivery and flexible return policies are some of the best in the industry. Shop with us today!
