CollectionsDec 09, 2024
Ray Griffiths’ First Coffee Table Book Spans 5 Decades of DesignTrendsDec 16, 2024
Marion Fasel’s New Book Delves Into the History of Engagement Rings
“The History of Diamond Engagement Rings: A True Romance” is a 128-page small-format book containing more than 165 images.
The cover of Marion Fasel’s new book on diamond engagement rings showcases ring styles throughout the decades, including a Renaissance design with the Latin inscription “I am a token of love” (blue box), a Tiffany setting from 1920 (pink box), and a contemporary cushion-cut diamond set in a gold ring (green box).
New York—A new book is out by author Marion Fasel that examines how long people have been exchanging engagement rings set with diamonds.
“The History of Diamond Engagement Rings: A True Romance” is a 128-page small-format book (7.5 x 9 inches) containing more than 165 images of engagement rings.
Published by The Adventurine Limited Editions in partnership with Only Natural Diamonds, the book explores the history of one of the most enduring traditions in jewelry and aims to dispel any myths about it, including the idea that De Beers “invented” the diamond engagement ring following World War II.
“A diamond engagement ring has long been a universally understood symbol of love and marriage, yet very little is known about the history of the style,” Fasel explained.
“In fact, there are several misconceptions. Some believe diamond engagement rings only became popular after the ‘A Diamond Is Forever’ De Beers advertising campaign launched in 1947, or that the first diamond engagement ring was given to Mary of Burgundy in 1477.”
Fasel, a jewelry historian and founder of The Adventurine online magazine, said to research the book, she dug through the archives of museums and libraries in New York and Europe, where she found diamond engagement rings depicted in masterpieces from the Renaissance and documented in original manuscripts.
She also consulted experts who showed her historic examples of rings, starting with the first styles featuring point-cut diamonds.
Related stories will be right here …
“The History of Diamond Engagement Rings: A True Romance” is a 128-page small-format book (7.5 x 9 inches) containing more than 165 images of engagement rings.
Published by The Adventurine Limited Editions in partnership with Only Natural Diamonds, the book explores the history of one of the most enduring traditions in jewelry and aims to dispel any myths about it, including the idea that De Beers “invented” the diamond engagement ring following World War II.
“A diamond engagement ring has long been a universally understood symbol of love and marriage, yet very little is known about the history of the style,” Fasel explained.
“In fact, there are several misconceptions. Some believe diamond engagement rings only became popular after the ‘A Diamond Is Forever’ De Beers advertising campaign launched in 1947, or that the first diamond engagement ring was given to Mary of Burgundy in 1477.”
Fasel, a jewelry historian and founder of The Adventurine online magazine, said to research the book, she dug through the archives of museums and libraries in New York and Europe, where she found diamond engagement rings depicted in masterpieces from the Renaissance and documented in original manuscripts.
She also consulted experts who showed her historic examples of rings, starting with the first styles featuring point-cut diamonds.
“It was one of the most fascinating experiences of my career to bring the story to light of just how long and consistently diamond engagement rings have been treasured, how the style has changed and remained the same over the centuries and falling in love with the romantic stories behind the rings from engaged couples,” Fasel said.
In addition to chronicling the history of diamond engagement rings, the book includes style guides sharing diamond vocabulary, and diagrams of the parts of rings.
There are also reviews of celebrity engagement rings, from Britain’s Queen Charlotte (ruled 1761-1818) and 19th-century English poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning to more modern ladies, like Grace Kelly, Beyoncé, Jennifer Lawrence, and Blake Lively.
“The History of Diamond Engagement Rings: A True Romance” comes out today.
It is a hardcover, limited-edition book that retails for $35.
It is available via the Natural Diamond Council’s website, Amazon.com, and at independent bookstores across the country.
More on Trends
The Latest
CollectionsJun 23, 2026
Francesca Villa Goes ‘On the Road’The capsule collection looks to vintage trunk pins that echo the spirit of speed, freedom, and the mythology of the American road trip.
SourcingJun 23, 2026
New Paraíba Tourmaline Source Reportedly Discovered in EthiopiaSSEF issued a notice about the potential new source of the sought-after gemstone, citing “credible reports” from trade sources.
MajorsJun 23, 2026
Etsy Says ‘Shop Other Jeffs’ This Prime DayAs Amazon Prime Day kicks off, Etsy is encouraging shoppers to support small businesses.
Brought to you by
Wedding Band Trends 2026: Personalization Takes Center StageColored gemstones, artisan finishes, mixed metals, and meaningful details are shaping demand in bridal jewelry.
Events & AwardsJun 23, 2026
AGA Announces 2026 Scholarship WinnerCole Winward is the recipient of 2026 AGA Gemological Scholarship.
Weekly QuizJun 17, 2026
This Week’s QuizTest your jewelry news knowledge by answering these questions.
EditorsJun 22, 2026
15 Pieces of Jewelry That Brought Us Joy in Vegas Whether they evoked nostalgia, wonder, or laughter, these jewels put a smile on our faces.
Events & AwardsJun 22, 2026
Plans Announced for New Trade Show in BaselScheduled for April 2027, Basilia will be the first watch and jewelry trade show held in Basel since the collapse of Baselworld in 2020.
Brought to you by
Building the Future of Jewelry Retail: DCA Expands Education, Leadership Development, and Workforce SolutionsDCA is preparing the next generation of professionals by supporting workforce development, leadership growth, and career advancement.
Events & AwardsJun 22, 2026
Gem Awards Opens 2027 Nomination PeriodSubmissions for the milestone 25th annual Gem Awards will be accepted across three categories from now through July 31.
WatchesJun 22, 2026
Snoopy Inspires New ‘Flying Ace’ Ball WatchThe beloved beagle dons his aviator outfit for the new Engineer Master II Snoopy Flying Ace timepiece.
AuctionsJun 18, 2026
Paraíba Tourmalines Sell for $3.4M at Sotheby'sThe recent high jewelry auction, which also featured the sale of a 10-carat blue diamond, was “a celebration of color.”
CollectionsJun 18, 2026
Michelle Obama Wears Almasika Earrings Symbolizing Feminine PowerShe wore the “Le Cauri Endiamanté” earrings, our Piece of the Week, in the Obamas’ first dual portrait for the Obama Presidential Center.
PodcastsJun 17, 2026
Episode 6: Las Vegas 2026-Trends, Traffic, Broken BathroomsCouture’s Michelle Orman joins Amanda Gizzi and Michelle Graff for this special post-Market Week episode of My Next Question.
GradingJun 17, 2026
SSEF Issues Warning on Refilled EmeraldsThe lab is seeing emeralds with filler added post-testing enter the market, accompanied by reports that indicate little to no treatment.
WatchesJun 17, 2026
Patek Philippe’s ‘Visionary’ Leader Philippe Stern Dies at 88 The third generation of the Stern family to head Patek Philippe, he navigated the “quartz crisis” and preserved the brand’s independence.
MajorsJun 17, 2026
James Avery to Revamp In-Store Retail ExperienceThe Texas-based jeweler is gradually rolling out a new experience-forward layout in its stores.
MajorsJun 17, 2026
Seahawks’ Super Bowl Ring Blends Meaningful Design, Technical CraftsmanshipThe Super Bowl LX champions were honored with diamond and blue sapphire rings by Jason of Beverly Hills.
Policies & IssuesJun 17, 2026
Community for Ethical Jewelry Names New Executive DirectorMarianna Smirnova previously spent a decade working with the Responsible Minerals Initiative, in addition to other relevant roles.
MajorsJun 16, 2026
5 Things to Know About the 2026 NBA Championship TrophyThe New York Knicks took home the Larry O'Brien Trophy crafted by Tiffany & Co.
SourcingJun 16, 2026
GemGuide Updates Ruby PricesIts app now reflects increased prices for Mozambique ruby, as well as changes to its Burma ruby charts.
MajorsJun 16, 2026
Sasha Primak Hires New Design DirectorThe manufacturer has tapped Alicia Arnold, the former director of custom design at Tiny Jewel Box.
IndependentsJun 15, 2026
DeBoulle Diamond & Jewelry to Renovate Dallas FlagshipThe revamped, elevated space will feature a two-story Patek Philippe atelier and a rooftop patio for parties.
WatchesJun 15, 2026
G-Shock, Coca-Cola Partner on Bottle-Inspired WatchThe special-edition piece marks the 140th anniversary of the iconic beverage brand.
AuctionsJun 12, 2026
16th-Century ‘Hogback’ Diamond Ring Going Up for Auction in LondonFound by a metal detectorist, the ring likely belonged to a wealthy, possibly royal, owner, said Noonans.
CollectionsJun 12, 2026
Chouette Designs To Launch Collection Celebrating All Types of LoveOur Pride Month Piece of the Week, the “Margaux” ring, is part of the wife-and-wife team’s new “Lovestoned” collection.
Events & AwardsJun 12, 2026
CBG Announces Plans for Phoenix ShowThe group has named the keynote speaker and announced a new pavilion for its next event, which is slated for September.
EditorsJun 11, 2026
This Was the Best Animal Jewelry in Las Vegas From lions and hippos to snails and fish, Senior Editor Lenore Fedow wrangles her picks for cutest jewelry critters in Las Vegas.
