A Diamond is Forever: The Creation of a Tradition

Abstract

Why is it important to know how this tradition began? Some criticize the marriage industry and say that it pollutes the ceremony, destroys the authenticity of sentiment and purity of emotional expression. While these opinions may be valid, I am not out to protect the sanctity of marriage or the purity of sentiment. I am unsure as to whether either of those things can exist without some sort of blemish. I wish to explore the creation of societal norms that may intimidate society to abide by claiming some sort of ancient historical credibility. I believe these norms cause a destruction of creativity as well as public disapproval of those who may choose to reject the practice, which in reality, is not rooted in any sort of mythical or ancient ritual as it suggests. I can recall one incident when some coworkers and I gathered around an engagement ring that was just a plain silver Claddagh ring (a traditional Irish ring). When the brideto-be left the room, everyone began to talk about how terrible the ring was and questioned why she didn’t go with a diamond (some thought her fiancé simply couldn’t afford one). There is little tolerance for deviations from this “tradition.”