Quote Originally Posted by A ke bono kane kotto View Post
Nice theory, but I don't think it's true. My parents or grand-parents, or great-grand-parents never had a diamond ring. Who could afford a diamond ring until the 1960's, except the very rich ?
Many common Western practices originated with the rich. You're right, not everyone could afford these things. Diamond rings were usually purchased by the wealthy as a sort of bride-wealth or proof of financial security.

It is more of an American phenomenon.
I'll give you that point.