You’ve heard it plenty of times, “Diamonds are a girl’s best friend!” But was that always the case? Not quite. Today we value the gem’s durability and resistance and view it as a symbol of one’s everlasting and eternal love. Some engagement rings today stop people in their tracks, but years ago it was just a simple iron hoop that women wore when they were engaged. Many women received an iron ring as a symbol of their fiance’s love and affection. You most likely would see this during Roman times. It wasn’t until the 15th century that brides-to-be could look forward to a little bling or glam! During this time period brides started to wear gems, especially the diamond, on their ring finger. The discovery of more diamonds in the years to follow, especially during the 18th century, made diamond engagement rings more available. In addition to the engagement a second ring was given at the wedding ceremony; this ring is known today as the wedding band. Today, it’s estimated that about 80% of the engagement rings are diamond engagement rings. A token of one’s love which is everlasting, resistant, and timeless, the diamond today symbolizes much more than a little “sparkle” on one’s ring finger.