In very early times the engagement ring was given as partial payment for the bride and a symbol of the groom's good intentions. The first engagement rings were made of grass and later from leather, stone and crude metals. Diamonds became a feature in engagement rings in medieval Italy, as they were the strongest gem thereby representing enduring love.

The wedding ring, exchanged during the wedding ceremony, is also a symbol of eternal love. In the past, it was considered lucky if silver rings were exchanged, later rings were often decorative with designs such as clasped hands, twin hearts or a single heart. Gold rings became fashionable during the 19th century and were often engraved with a short message, the couple?s initials and the date of the wedding.

The rings are placed on the 4th finger of the left hand, as the early Egyptians believed this finger contained the vein that led to the heart. The English Prayer Book of 1549 stated that the 4th finger of the left hand was the proper and holy place for all wedding rings.

Diamonds continue to be the most popular choice of gemstone for engagement rings and wedding bands. In determining a diamond's quality look for the 4 Cs.

• Cut - the cut of a diamond is what gives it its sparkle. The brilliant cut is the most popular.
• Colour - the less colour there is in a diamond the more valuable it is.
• Clarity - a diamond's clarity depends on the number of non-crystallised carbon inclusions it contains, diamonds with the least inclusions are the most valuable.
• Carat - this is the diamond's weight.
  

Of course, wedding jewellery is much more than just the rings. There is a large range of exquisite jewellery available to complement your wedding gown. Often in crystal or pearl, you can choose from necklaces, earrings, bracelets, tiaras and brooches. Dress up or dress down, it's up to you.

• Find a jeweller