[Don Ro]

Originally Posted by RKDinOKC

The engagememt ring.
Will try to be clearer.
Wedding rings were a symbol of being taken.
And date back to Greek/Roman cultures
Engagement rings were a promise to get married. Mostly so the couple could "engage" in pre-marital sex.
In medieval times the engagement ring's value was part of the dowry. The fancier the ring, the more prestigious and valuable the dowry.
Though the dowry is not really done much anymore the engagement ring has stayed.
As a leftover cultural thing women get excited to get a expensive one and show off how much dowry they are worth.

Watched a documentary years ago about how an African tribe (Maasai?) male member tries to catch the interest of the female.
He gathers all of his cattle and parades them in front of her hut.
He even hangs his personal belongings on his body.
What a hoot to see this beautifully muscled and distinguished giant black dude slowly strolling back/forth with pots and pans hanging off him.