Engagement Jewellery Traditions Around the World Part One

You might think an engagement is as simple as slipping a ring onto a finger, but around the world the customs are wonderfully varied. From the hand a ring is worn on to the gifts exchanged between families, engagement jewellery traditions reveal how differently cultures mark the same step. This is part one of our look at some of the most interesting engagement jewellery traditions from across the globe, with a nod to the styles you can find in Hatton Garden, London's diamond quarter in the EC1N postcode.

Engagement Traditions in Egypt

Egyptian couples mirror their Western counterparts by wearing engagement rings after the proposal, but with one notable difference. The ring is worn on the right hand until the marriage takes place.

Once the ceremony is complete, the ring is moved across to the left hand, where it remains for the duration of the marriage. It is a small but meaningful gesture that marks the shift from betrothal to marriage.

The custom is a reminder that the symbolism of a ring lies as much in how it is worn as in the stone itself.

Engagement Traditions in Spain

In Spain, the proposal is broadly similar to the British version, with one charming exception. When a Spanish woman accepts an engagement ring, she is traditionally expected to give her partner an engagement wristwatch in return.

The origins of the custom are uncertain, but it neatly balances the exchange so that both partners receive a treasured piece. It is also, perhaps, one way of making sure the groom arrives on time for the wedding.

The tradition shows how a fine watch can carry the same romantic weight as a ring.

Engagement Traditions in India

Indian weddings are famous for their breathtaking display of colour and jewels, and the proposal has its own customs too. Couples become officially betrothed at an engagement or ring ceremony, witnessed by members of both families.

At the ceremony the couple exchange bands made of gold, after which the families dine together and exchange gifts of sweets, dried fruits and clothes to celebrate the union. The emphasis on family involvement is central to the occasion.

Fun fact: Gold has long been central to Indian celebrations not only as adornment but as a store of family wealth, traditionally given to a bride as a form of financial security.

Continuing the Journey Around the World

These three customs only begin to show how varied engagement jewellery can be. From the hand a ring is worn on to the gifts that pass between families, each tradition reflects its culture's values around love and commitment.

If you would like to explore further, read part two of our engagement traditions, which travels on to China, Ireland and Greece.

Whatever style speaks to you, the jewellers of Hatton Garden can help you find or design an engagement piece that honours your own story.

Read the rest of the series: part one, part two and part three.