[Beverly]

Originally Posted by midgetwaiter

Atlantic Monthly did the only really comprehensive look at the diamond industry I've ever come across (in 1982!) which is available here http://www.theatlantic.com/doc/198202/diamond

Excellent article!

A couple either buys into the social pressure of diamond ring or they don't. I haven't, in either of my two marriages. Gold wedding bands for the first, and a platinum wedding bands for the second. No diamond necklaces, bracelets, earrings, watches or anything else diamond over here.

Money that could have gone for diamond engagement rings or other diamond trinkets instead went to paying mortgages. Those were the first steps to now not having had a mortgage in over ten years