10 Ways Jewellery Changed during the 19th and 20th Centuries

7. The Diamond Engagement

Although scholars believe the first diamond engagement ring was given during the early Renaissance in Venice, the practice didn’t catch on until the Victorian era. With the discovery of new diamond mines in Africa during the nineteenth century, diamonds, though expensive, became more accessible for people. This accessibility coupled with the gems’ beauty helped make diamonds the most popular gemstones for betrothal.