Diamond Engagement Ring Trivia

 

We’ve had some rather lengthy posts that last few days.  I thought today we would look at a few bit of trivia.   

So, here are a few diamond and engagement ring facts or trivia – yes, you too can win trivial pursuit. 

1. The world’s largest diamond and where was it found?

 

Aerial View of Premier Mine, near Johannesburg, South Africa

There are two diamond on this list – one, the Golden Jubilee Diamond and the Great Star of Africa both found in the Premier Diamond Mine at Cullinan near Johannesburg, South Africa. 

The Great Star of Africa was found in 1905 weighing in at 530.2 carats (106.04g) and held the world’s record until in 1985 with the discovery of the Golden Jubilee Diamond weighing a whopping 545.37ct (109.13).

2. Why do we give or exchange an engagement ring? 

 

Maximilian I

Gentlemen, you have to thank Roman Emperor, Maximilian I for starting this tradition.  He presented Mary of Burgundy in 1477 with a diamond ring as an engagement present.

3. Why do we give bands for wedding rings?

 

King George III

King George III first introduced the concept or tradition of a keeper rig in 1761; presenting Queen Charlotte, his bride, with a band encircled with diamonds.  This tradition is carried on today with the diamond anniversary bands and diamond wedding bands however, today one finds a variety of precious stones in addition to diamonds. 

4. Why the left hand and the third finger?

We can trace this back to Ancient Egypt and this dove tails with No. 2.  The Ancient Egyptians believed that the vein from this finger lead straight to the heart or contained the “vein of love.”  The Ancient Romans began the tradition of giving a blushing bride a truth ring.  It did not become a diamond ring until Roman Emperor, Maximilian I set the new standard.   Even in ancient times, they were “Keeping up with the Jones.”

5. What is a Princess Ring?

 

Alexa Rose Three Stone Princess Ring

A princess ring is a ring which contains three, four or five diamonds in a row, across the top of a ring.  These were designed and quite popular in the early twentieth century.  This is not to be confused with a princess cut diamond which by all accounts in a true square. 

These are just a few pieces of trivia that you can carry with you through out your day.  If you have questions or comments, please share.