3 Weird Ways Engagement Rings Influence Society

It goes way beyond the ring

As a part of the jewelry business, false truths exist—some common ones are stones being swapped and box stores having better prices. But the ways in which jewelry and engagement rings impact society remain under-discussed truths of the trade. We think it’s important to bring these realities to light, and help steer you towards the decision that’s best for you—regardless of where you are on your bridal journey.

HOW ENGAGEMENT RINGS HAVE HAD WEIRD INFLUENCES ON SOCIETY

1. THEY SHAPE RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN MEN & WOMEN
   Before the engagement ring was a cultural norm, men and women communicated wouldn’t hesitate to look at a persons hand before engaging in conversation with them. Women wouldn’t put a fake ring on her finger before going out if she didn’t want to be hit on. Engagement rings impact the way men and women communicate, because it makes some people more closed off, or not approach a person at all. For others, rings can cause conversations to be more casual and natural, because there isn’t the apprehension of being hit on or asked out from a person whose married.
   
   Whether we realize it or not, on a societal level engagement rings shape who we’re conversing with, and can influence the depth of our connection. The engagement ring is a public symbol of commitment and devotion. It shouldn’t be taken lightly—but it’s also helpful to be aware of the lesser-discussed influences these rings have on us in society as a whole.
   

2. INFLUENCE FRIENDSHIPS & FAMILY DYNAMICS
   An engagement between two people can cause true colors to arise, and old family stories to surface. They can trigger unexpressed feelings in friendships, and create space for conversations to be had—or go unspoken. The act of getting engaged can cause relationships between friends and family members to become strained and stressful, or more open and honest.
   

3. TESTAMENT TO PERSONAL TASTE
   Simple, unique, classic? It’s crazy how an individual's style can be symbolized through one piece of jewelry. The ring tells a story about two people—touching the lives of those who came before them and who will come because of them. It also tells a story about the person wearing it—who she is, in her essence. This may carry a message or influence how you show up in society, or how people perceive you. There is no right or wrong way. All that matters is that the ring feels like the truest expression of you.

THE STORY IS WHAT GIVES MEANING TO THE RING
The real value isn’t the monetary value, but what the ring means to you. So the story that it tells has got to be real. Not for your mother, best friend, or grandmother, but for you.

When issues arise because of the ring—in whatever way it may happen—stay true to your story and you can’t go wrong. As a jewelry shop, we understand our responsibility to recognize our place in how our industry shapes culture, and through the awareness we can create the best bridal experience for you possible—guiding you towards whats best for you.