Two Diamond Engagement Rings, One Couple!

Presenting a diamond ring on bended knee has long been the traditional way to seal the deal when it comes to a proposal of marriage. The man agonizes over how exactly to pop the question (and how big a rock he can afford). The woman feigns surprise (even though she knew this day was long in coming – perhaps a little too long). Tears flow...And scene. But this ritual may soon be recast and revamped by a bevy of gay couples who are rewriting the way a proposal goes down.

According to E! online, Heather Matarazzo, best known for her gawky roles in Welcome to the Dollhouse and The Princess Diaries, proposed to her girlfriend, Caroline Murphy, last week. Because they don’t have the traditional male-female roles, they BOTH popped the question. “It was really cute,” says Matarazzo’s publicist, Lisa Jammal. “First Heather proposed to Caroline, then Caroline proposed to her!” Good for them, and good for the jewelry industry, no?

And the bling? There will always be fans of the tried-and-true diamond solitaire. But The Jewelry Insider looks forward to seeing some new designs on the ring finger as more and more couples (gay and straight) put their own stamp on the ritual. Diamond right hand rings, with their multitude of stylings, are starting their migration left. Gemstones such as rubies, emeralds, and sapphires can offset a diamond or replace it altogether, if you so desire. And guys are getting in on the act by creating unique interpretations of the (snore) traditional gold band.

No matter who you are or who you love, the good news is the engagement ring is opening its doors to more looks and now more and more fingers. Lindsay and Sam - -are you taking notes?