The Leprechauns had it right! Gold is one of the most precious metals known to man, and arguably, the most popular metal out there. It has recently made a strong comeback in the engagement ring industry, but why did gold get so popular and how did this metal become the chosen one for engagement rings?
Well our story begins in ancient Egypt 5000 years ago. Rings were used as a status symbol and Egypt was the first known culture to exchange rings of love. These gold and precious stone rings soon made their way to Greece where they were given to lovers featuring Eros, the god of love of his cherubs. But it is believed that it was the Romans who finally linked the ring to marriage.
But why gold? For ancient Man, gold had unique properties which made it easy to acquire and work with. It is usually found in a relatively pure state, which means it can be formed by hammering without needing to be annealed by heat treating. It was found often enough in pieces large enough to allow fabrication with the most basic tools. It is soft enough to work with relatively soft tools. It is (relatively) incorruptible, so it can be cast and recast without losing its properties, and does not tarnish. Best of all, it can be joined by fusing with simple technology. (Source)
This St. Patrick’s Day, put on your green but also slip on some gold and take a walk back in history.
-LB
