That is the question…or is it?  I’ve heard it talked about these past few years that Millenials value experiences over materials things, but is that really the case?  They ALL own a smartphone, a tablet, hip and trendy clothes and all walk around with a cup of Starbucks in their hands so we know they’re buying something.  When it comes to getting engaged, a RING is still the thing– although a big diamond may not be what they have in mind or they think they can afford right now.  After all, what is an engagement ring supposed to be anyway?

Circa 1477 when then Archduke Maximillian was thinking about asking Mary of Burgundy to marry him.  As this hopeless romantic strolled through the lush gardens of his estate (he was royalty, after all) what could he possibly give his betrothed that would symbolize his true feelings and remind her everyday of the strength of his commitment to her?  What was the hardest, most enduring symbol of that love that his words alone could not say?  A diamond.  There was nothing else he could give the love of his life that would express their unbreakable love and tell the rest of the world that she was taken–forever.

His diamond was not a 2 carat round brilliant with 58 polished facets in perfect proportion, internally flawless and colorless.  It probably didn’t look anything like the diamonds we’re used to seeing today–but the meaning and tradition behind the giving of the hardest gemstone known to man continues to this day.  Why?  Because it still represents the ultimate symbol of your commitment to the love of your life.

So if the symbol of your commitment isn’t a diamond, that’s ok too.  There’s a rainbow of beautiful gemstones available that may speak directly to your love.  Maybe it’s the fiery red passion of the ruby or the true blue fidelity of the sapphire.  Is it the lush green of the emerald or the mystique of the opal.  Whatever gem speaks directly to you and your love is what you should have; remembering that every time you look down at it sparkling on your hand, that moment when time stood still and your love looked deeply into your eyes and asked one of the most life-altering questions of both your lives…

Now THAT’S an experience — coupled with a permanent symbol of your occasion that you will continue to celebrate year another year, for all time.