Engagement rings have been a symbol of love and commitment for centuries, and diamond engagement rings have been the standard for over a century. Among the many styles of diamond engagement rings available today, sidestone diamond engagement rings stand out as a popular choice. Let’s dive into the history of sidestone diamond engagement rings and explore their enduring appeal.
What are Sidestone Diamond Engagement Rings?
Sidestone diamond engagement rings are a type of diamond engagement ring that features a center diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds or gemstones on either side of the center stone. These smaller stones, also known as “side stones,” are often channel-set, prong-set, or pave-set, and can enhance the sparkle and beauty of the center diamond. Sidestone diamond engagement rings are a popular choice for couples who want a ring with a lot of sparkle and brilliance.
The History of Diamond Engagement Rings
Before we delve into the history of sidestone diamond engagement rings, let’s first explore the history of diamond engagement rings in general. The tradition of giving engagement rings dates back to ancient Rome, where women wore rings made of iron to signify their ownership by their husbands-to-be.
In the Middle Ages, rings featuring gemstones were given as tokens of love and devotion, and the practice of exchanging engagement rings became more widespread. It wasn’t until the late 1800s, however, that diamond engagement rings became the norm. This was due in part to a marketing campaign launched by the De Beers diamond company, which popularized the concept of the “diamond engagement ring.”
The Rise of Sidestone Diamond Engagement Rings
While solitaire diamond engagement rings remain a popular choice, sidestone diamond engagement rings have been gaining in popularity in recent years. Here’s a look at the history of sidestone diamond engagement rings and what makes them such a popular choice today.
Early Designs
The earliest sidestone diamond engagement rings were simple in design, featuring a center diamond flanked by two smaller diamonds. This design was popular in the Art Deco era of the 1920s and 1930s, and was often paired with a platinum setting.
In the 1940s and 1950s, sidestone diamond engagement rings became more elaborate, with larger side stones and intricate settings. This was due in part to advances in jewelry-making techniques, which allowed for more intricate designs.
Contemporary Styles
Today, sidestone diamond engagement rings are available in a wide variety of styles and designs, from classic to contemporary. Here are some of the most popular styles:
Three-Stone Rings: Three-stone sidestone diamond engagement rings feature a center diamond flanked by two smaller diamonds, symbolizing the past, present, and future of a couple’s relationship.
Halo Rings: Halo sidestone diamond engagement rings feature a center diamond surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds, which can enhance the sparkle and brilliance of the center diamond.
Split Shank Rings: Split shank sidestone diamond engagement rings feature a band that splits as it approaches the center diamond, creating a unique and eye-catching look.
Vintage Rings: Vintage sidestone diamond engagement rings feature intricate and ornate designs that are inspired by jewelry styles of the past.
Modern Rings: Modern sidestone diamond engagement rings feature clean lines and simple designs, often with a focus on geometric shapes and symmetry.
The Appeal of Sidestone Diamond Engagement Rings
So, why are sidestone diamond engagement rings so popular? Here are a few reasons:
Sparkle and Brilliance: The smaller diamonds in a sidestone diamond engagement ring can enhance the sparkle and brilliance of the center diamond, creating a ring that catches the eye and dazzles in the light.
Personalization: The variety of styles and designs available in sidestone diamond engagement rings means that couples can find a ring that reflects their personal style and taste.
Symbolism: The side stones in a sidestone diamond engagement ring can represent a couple’s past, present, and future, or simply signify the enduring nature of their love and commitment.
Versatility: Sidestone diamond engagement rings can be worn with a variety of different wedding band styles, making them a versatile choice that can adapt to changing fashion trends and personal preferences.
In conclusion, sidestone diamond engagement rings have a rich history that spans several centuries. From their early days as simple designs with small side stones to today’s wide variety of styles and designs, sidestone diamond engagement rings remain a popular choice for couples who want a ring with sparkle, brilliance, and enduring symbolism.
