Eternity rings featuring paste gems, white topaz or a mix of stones appeared in the 18th century.[4]
History
[edit]The concept of a diamond eternity ring was created in the 1960s by diamond merchant De Beers.[5][6] American investigative journalist Edward Jay Epstein stated that at the time the company had a secret agreement with the Soviet Union which, in return for the creation of a "single channel" controlling the world's supply of diamonds, required the purchase of 90–95% of the uncut gem diamonds produced by Russia.[6] The prevailing fashion at the time, particularly for engagement rings, was for them to be set with a single, large diamond. The Soviet gems were, however, small, often less than 0.25 carats.[5] To avoid stockpiling, De Beers embarked on a campaign of promotion of jewelry containing a number of small diamonds, culminating in the eternity ring, which was aimed at older, married women.[5] One campaign slogan aimed at husbands was, "She married you for richer or poorer. Let her know how it's going."[7]
References
[edit]- ^ "Awesome guide on infinity rings - What are they used for?". Think Engraved. Retrieved 2021-06-02.
- ^ Primestyle. "Why Eternity Bands Are So Popular – Top 4 Reasons" November 1, 2016
- ^ "The Eternity Ring". mensjewlery.org. Retrieved 2024-01-19.
- ^ Taylor, Gerald; Scarisbrick, Diana (1978). Finger Rings From Ancient Egypt to the Present Day. Ashmolean Museum. p. 88. ISBN 0-900090-54-5.
- ^ ab c Edward Jay Epstein (February 1982). "Have you ever tried to sell a Diamond?". The Atlantic Monthly. Retrieved October 18, 2010.
- ^ ab Kempton, Daniel (1995). "Russia and de beers: Diamond conflict or cartel?". South African Journal of International Affairs. 3 (2): 94–131. doi:10.1080/10220469509545165.
- ^ Joan McAlpine (March 1, 2009). "Maybe diamonds are a girl's best friend". The Times. Archived from the original on December 25, 2014. Retrieved December 26, 2014.