In New Zealand, the average cost of an engagement ring is about 3500 dollars, depending on the metal, lab-grown diamonds or natural, etc. And if you are importing, the import duty is 5 per cent of the ring’s cost. The average GST rate is 15% and can apply to your product.
Now that you know the cost of Engagement Rings in New Zealand, did you know they have a long and fascinating history? The design, meaning, and symbolism have undergone significant changes from ancient times to the modern day. Now to look closely at how they have evolved over time.
Ancient times: The concept of engagement rings can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where the circular shape was believed to represent eternal love. The ancient Greeks also used them, often made of iron, and the Romans used rings made of gold or silver to signify engagement.
During medieval times, they became more elaborate, with designs featuring intricate engravings and precious stones. The use of diamonds was not yet common, and instead, other gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds were used.
Victorian era: During the Victorian era, the use of diamonds began to gain popularity. In 1477, Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave his bride-to-be, Mary of Burgundy, a diamond engagement ring, setting the trend for using diamonds in rings.
The Victorian era was known for its elaborate and romantic designs, featuring ornate settings and detailed engravings. They often included multiple stones, with diamonds being the most popular choice.
Art deco period: The Art Deco movement brought about a new era of engagement ring design in the 1920s and 1930s. Geometric shapes and bold, colourful gemstones characterised such rings. The use of platinum, a strong and durable metal, became popular during this time, and diamonds continued to be the preferred choice for centre stones.
Mid-century modern: Following World War II, the ring designs became simpler and more streamlined. Clean lines and minimalistic designs characterised the mid-century modern era. During this period, they often featured a solitaire diamond in a simple setting, allowing the beauty of the diamond to take centre stage.
Contemporary era: Today, their designs are diverse and reflect various styles and preferences. Many couples create custom-designed ones that are unique to their relationship.
They feature coloured gemstones, such as sapphires, emeralds, and rubies, which have become increasingly popular, as they have non-traditional materials such as rose gold, titanium, and palladium.
Symbolism and meaning: The symbolism and meaning behind engagement rings have also evolved. In ancient times, they were seen as a symbol of ownership, with the man presenting the ring as a sign of intention to marry the woman.
Today, they are seen as a symbol of love and commitment, with both partners often choosing and wearing rings as a sign of their mutual love and dedication. The tradition of the engagement ring has also been influenced by religion and culture. In some cultures, engagement rings are not traditionally exchanged.
Conclusion
You can look for Engagement Rings in New Zealand from various online stores. After all, they have come a long way since their ancient origins. From simple iron bands to ornate Victorian designs, from Art Deco boldness to mid-century minimalism, and from contemporary variety to personalised and unique creations, their evolution reflects changing cultural, social, and technological trends throughout history.
Despite the changing designs and meanings, one thing has remained constant: the engagement ring symbolises love and commitment between two people; whether a simple solitaire diamond or a custom-designed piece featuring unique gemstones and materials, it is a powerful reminder of the unbreakable bond between two individuals.
