Wedding rings costing 3x a man's salary ?

[A ke bono kane kotto]

The whole engagement-ring tradition goes back to the concept of the dowery and the bride-price. Instead of paying a bride-price, Western men during the last two centuries or so would purchase a diamond ring at three-months' salary to prove they can care for theif fiancee to her father. This dates back to an era when the woman didn't work. In my opinion, now that it is not only socially acceptable and encouragable for women to work, but in some areas downright necessary, I think this is an incredibly outdated custom that proves nothing and favors the woman infinitely over the man.

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 ? I don't think it is more common now, because many young couples don't even get married these days. It is more of an American phenomenon. That's why it is also common in Japan or South Korea, but not really in Europe. Consumerism has never worked very well in Europe.

[GodEmperorLeto]

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.

[JimmySeal]

The diamond engagement ring did not become the standard it is considered today until after an extensive marketing campaign by De Beers in the middle of the 20th century, which came to include one of the most famous advertising slogans of the 20th century: “A Diamond is Forever”.

When I do eventually buy an engagement ring, I'm fairly sure it will not be a diamond. Diamonds, in particular, carry a history of human exploitation, and are far overpriced due to artificial scarcity. There are plenty of precious stones that are inherently just as valuable as diamonds, without all the baggage.