Why are genuine antique diamond engagement rings scarce?
Couples were getting engaged long before diamonds were readily available to use in jewelry. People used rubies, emeralds, sapphires, and other gemstones regularly. That changed somewhat after Africa was discovered to have an abundance of diamonds. Jewelers recognized the opportunity, and started creating more diamond pieces. As with anything new and exciting, the demand for diamond engagement rings soon skyrocketed. Along with high demand came high prices. Engagement rings with diamonds cost hundreds of dollars more than the same rings with different gemstones. As a result, only the wealthy could afford diamond engagement rings. So of course, diamonds became a status symbol. Unlike today, back then wearing even a small diamond meant you were wealthy. Seeking to cash in on this trend, jewelers began making more and more diamond jewelry. You could get everything from rings to bracelets. However, the party was over when supply began to outweigh demand. With an abundance of merchandise jus
