Van Sipma Jewelers2011 Ridge Rd. Homewood, IL 60430 |
American Gem Society: The Power of Love
| This is a copy of a ring in the Kunsthistorisches Museum in Vienna, believed to be the original gift of love. Hogback diamonds, the forerunner of today's baguette, are arranged in the shape of the Gothic letter 'M' alluding to the Virgin Mary, and the permanent union of Mary and Maximilian's marriage. "At the betrothal, your Grace must have a ring set with a diamond and also a gold ring. Moreover, in the morning your Grace must bestow upon the bride some costly jewels." | |
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| From a letter written from Ghent on July 30, 1477, by Dr. Wilhelm Moroltinger to Archduke (later Emperor) Maximilian just before his betrothal to Mary of Burgundy, daughter of Charles the Bold. This is one of the earliest known examples of a diamond ring given specifically to seal an engagement. |
American Gem Society: The Power of Love
