The original purpose for an engagement ring was a sign that a woman was purchased and belonged to the groom-to-be. The first people to use rings in a romantic way were the French. In the sixteenth century they used gimmal rings. These rings are intertwined, but had a little slit in the gold so that during the engagement each person wore one of the rings. On the wedding day the groom would take his ring off and give it to his bride and that was her wedding band (the two rings together). Now a days engagement rings have become diamonds and are quite expensive. (guideline to the giver is 3 months gross wages). Remember you don’t have to follow tradition… do what ever feels right for you as a couple. Remember its the love and commitment that counts.