Are you considering taking your commitment to the next level? One of the first things you’ll need to do is work with a local jeweler, like Cornelis Hollander, to design custom engagement rings. While various stones and settings have had their moment in the spotlight – swoon-worthy amounts of sparkle can be found on the ring finger of both celebrities and royalty – engagement rings were not always as popular as they are today. The following is their story.

Custom engagement rings were virtually unheard of until 1477 when, according to the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy. Per GIA, the ring featured long, narrow diamonds mounted in the shape of an “M.” It is not known what the “M” stands for, but for romantic purposes, let’s imagine that it represents the first initial of the couple’s first names.

An Ad Campaign Started It All

Although custom engagement rings became increasingly popular among royalty, they did not materialize in the United States until the nineteenth century, according to GIA. GIA also states that the tradition of double-ring ceremonies, in which the groom also received a ring, skyrocketed during this time.

The allure of custom engagement rings rapidly increased in 1947 when a well-known slogan, “a diamond is forever,” was created. Ad strategy included having celebrities, like Marilyn Monroe, wear diamond rings on and off-screen. Today, according to the Diamond Council of America, about 84 percent of U.S. brides receive an engagement ring.

Engagement rings can be designed to fit your budget and your partner’s specific style preferences. Prices vary depending on preferred settings and metal – priced low to high: silver, gold, and platinum; diamond cut, shape, and carat weight; and whether you choose to have the ring engraved.

Popular Engagement Rings

Radiant Cut Stones are delightfully charming. They can take the form of a square or rectangular shape while also offering all the fire of a round brilliant diamond. The latter of which has enduring appeal.

Emerald-Cut Diamonds evoke a sleek and elegant appearance. The long, rectangular facets brilliantly showcase the color of the diamond.

Pear-Shaped Gems are slightly rounded with a tapered end that can be set to point up or down. Like marquise-cut diamonds, pear-shaped stones are incredibly flattering, as they slim and elongate your fingers.

Oval-Cut Gemstones have an elongated round shape that radiates brilliance and fire. Its greater surface area also provides the illusion of being much larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight.

Three Stone Rings feature one center stone bordered on each side by another gem to represent a couple’s past, present, and future. Also called a trilogy setting, this ring style is worn by the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle.

Custom Engagement Rings

Cornelis Hollander has been in the business of making memories for more than 30 years. Our award-winning designer jewelry is flawlessly engineered with bold, beautiful, sharp lines that either you or the lucky recipient is sure to love.

Create something special today by scheduling an appointment to speak with a Cornelis Hollander Jewelry Designer today at (480) 423-5000 or sales@cornelishollander.com. You can also visit us Monday through Friday, from 10:00 am to 5:30 pm and on Saturdays, from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm. We are closed on Sundays.

4151 N. Marshall Way

Scottsdale, AZ 85251