In 860 AD Pope Nicholas I decreed that gold rings should be used for marriage and engagement, because they validated the financial commitment being made by the man to the woman. This doctrine was echoed again by Pope Innocent III in the 12th century, but these metals did not become attainable for the masses until much later. In the 14th and 15th centuries, the upper classes occasionally had gold or silver bands set with semi-precious gemstones, and the lower classes still swapped simple copper or iron rings.
Platinum has only been fashioned into jewelry throughout the last two-hundred years, and though its exclusivity has always been highly valued, it is still not an affordable setting for many couples. During World War II, platinum was prohibited for use in jewelry in the United States, even in engagement rings, due to its necessity for manufacturing munitions. During that period, white gold was created to simulate the crisp elegance of platinum and remains a popular choice for brides-to-be looking for a hard-wearing, contemporary engagement ring.
Redefining Engaged ®
Gabriel&Co.
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