Fredric H. Rubel Digital Magazine 2020

Jack Kelege The Imperial Silhouette Collection in 18K White Gold.

Jack Kelege Platinum and 14K Rose Gold Setting.

Jack Kelege’s Grace Collection with 0.65 carats of diamonds.

Others consider Turkish puzzle rings to be the dawn of the practice, though like many Roman betrothal rings, they were not symbols of a loving bond, but were considered more important for counteracting infidelity and illustrating ownership. When more ornate Roman rings were presented, it was as a sign that the woman’s fiancé trusted her with access to his wealth and possessions, as well as a sign of her hierarchical status within his social circle. Engagement was latterly deemed a legal promise, sealed not with a kiss but with a precious ring, which protected her from having her position usurped by a mistress or rival.

In Colonial America, thimbles, gloves, and other gifts were given in place of jewelry to symbolize a betrothal. Quakers believed jewelry to hold no moral value and, as such, considered it worthless and meretricious, even for an engagement. Despite this, when young Puritan women were gifted a thimble by their fiancé to help them sew garments for their dowry, they would often remove the bowl and wear the base as a ring, once they were married. After the ceremony, the thimble was regarded as having served its useful purpose, so refashioning it was an acceptable way of continuing to appreciate the gift.

Jack Kelege Platinum Wide Band with 3.40 carats of diamonds.

Jack Kelege Wide Band with 2.32 carats of diamonds $9,000.

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