Diamonds are Still the Most Popular Choice for Engagement Rings

The first ever diamond engagement ring is believed to have been commissioned by the Archduke Maximillian of Austria in 1477 for his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy.  The ring was designed in the shape of an “M,” and fashioned from a series of thin, flat diamonds.  The European aristocracy and nobility soon followed suit by giving diamond rings to their intended brides.     

Today it is estimated that nearly three-quarters of first-time American brides receive a diamond engagement ring.  A 2014 report from Bain & Company suggests that “China, India and the U.S. will drive the majority of growth in diamond-jewelry consumption over the next decade, in part because of the growing interest in diamond engagement rings in India and China, and a stable interest in the U.S.” In 2016, The Knot’s annual Real Weddings Study found the average cost of an engagement ring was $6,163.    

If you want to save some money on the cost of an engagement ring, the American Gem Society (AGS) recommends that you do not sacrifice the cut of the diamond as that is what attributes to the diamond’s brilliance.  Rather they say get the “best cut you can afford, but maybe skimp a bit on clarity and color if you need; slight inclusions (or flaws) and faint coloration will not be visible just by looking at the diamond, and will result in substantial savings.” 

At Padis Jewelry we not only carry a large selection of engagement rings from many of the industry’s top luxury brands but also have an inventory of more than 10,000 loose diamonds on hand at any one time.  Moreover we are committed to only buying and selling conflict free diamonds.  Please visit our website to learn more about Padis Jewelry.     

Padis Jewelry, a family-owned business, has been a trusted source for buying exquisite certified loose diamonds, engagement rings and fine jewelry since 1974.  We are one of the only jewelers in the area that offers such an exclusive selection of top names in the industry as well as such a large inventory.  For the opportunity to view one of area’s most impressive collections, please contact us to schedule at visit.

Sources: 

americangemsociety.org/en/the-history-of-the-diamond-as-an-engagement-ring

theatlantic.com/international/archive/2015/02/how-an-ad-campaign-invented-the-diamond-engagement-ring/385376/

theknot.com/content/how-much-to-spend-on-engagement-ring