NOWADAYS at least 75 per cent of engaged couples choose a diamond ring.

The best and rarest diamonds are colourless, but those with a strong pure colour are highly prized.

Weight is measured in carats - 100 points per carat. A quality cut gives a brilliant sparkle, as light is reflected through the arrangement of facets to give the diamond its fire.

The Jewish 13th Century engagement ring was shaped like a house with a setting like a claw. A Hebrew inscription on the roof saying "lucky star" symbolised the couple's future.

The origins of the golden wedding ring are lost in the mists of time, but historically the ring signified continuity.

The Egyptians, Phoenicians and Babylonians wore it on the fourth finger of their left hand, or hung it around their necks. In 16th Century Italy, lovers wore a ring on the little toe of their left foot and had their shoes cut to let it show.

Snake rings were common in ancient times. The setting was two snakes' heads on Roman rings. Greek rings were open with a setting depicting two rams' heads facing each other. The Irish cladaugh love ring - featuring two hands holding a heart - is available today.

The moment the husband gives the ring to his wife is important. If it stops at the beginning of the finger without passing the joint, she will dominate the household. If it slips to the base of the finger, the husband will be lord and master.

The wedding cake stems from ancient times. In some parts of England a ring was placed inside the cake and guests were invited to cut a slice. Whoever found the ring would have a year's happiness.

Instead of confetti, brides were showered with small cakes, and in Scotland, where oatcakes were used, they were broken over the bride's head. This is said to have connections with the fertility rituals of many cultures, where grains and fruits were displayed as a blessing on the couple.

Orange blossoms symbolise that the purity of the bride equals her loveliness. Hyacinths signify constancy and rosemary remembrance. Good wishes are represented by lovers' knots on the end of the bouquet ribbons.