These rings are not to be considered like any other jewelry worn by a person. These rings carry the symbol of eternal love and commitment towards each other. It also indicates one's faithfulness to each other.
This practice of exchanging has a quite a long history. The significance of these rings and way they were made have also changed.
This practice was started by the Greeks in the ancient times. It was considered to be a token of affection and care. At that time, these rings were known as betrothal ring and used to be given before marriage. But, it was not always necessary that giving of these rings would lead to future marriage. It was more like a friendship rings of today.
In ancient Rome, the practice of Engagement ring was not very popular. It is thought that these roman rings had keys carved on them. It is thought that this signified that wife was entitled to get half of all properties and monies after marriage. Some others would like to think that this key represented as key to her husband's heart.
In 860 AD, Pope Nicolas I made the ring compulsory for any engagement and it should be made of gold. It would also indicate that the groom was financially committing towards the marriage. Engagement rings in the form as we know today became popular in 14th-15th Century Europe when rich people and royal families started this practice. Some people say it started by Archduke Maximilian of Austria presenting such a ring to his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy. In countries like Brazil, Sweden and Germany it is customary for both bride and groom to wear such rings.
The practice of wearing the Engagement ring on the 4th finger(also known as ring finger) has started from the belief that this finger has a special vein which goes directly the heart.
Though it is thought that one should present a diamond ring as an Engagement ring, but it is not necessarily required that the stone must be diamond. In fact, a ring having any stone could be given as an Engagement ring. Generally, the ring is made as per bride's choice. Some people would like to have only a simple ring. This ring would show their deep commitment to the relation between themselves. They would better like to have an expensive ring as their marriage ring.
