Is anything more special than walking into a jewelry store with your spouse-to-be on the hunt for the perfect set of wedding rings? There is a wedding ring for everyone’s style, taste, and budget, big or small, sparkly or simple, gold or silver. However, have you ever stopped to think about why we wear these little symbols of commitment? Let me share with you what I learned about these beautiful little symbols of love a promise.
When Did the Wedding Band Tradition Begin
According to Vogue, 80% of brides in the U.S. expect a diamond engagement ring before saying, “I do.” But this hasn’t always been the case. Wedding bands have undergone an evolution of sorts. The first-ever recorded evidence of wedding ring ceremonies took place in ancient Egypt. These were created by weaving hemp and reeds into braids. The rings would then be worn on the fourth finger of the left hand – the same as today. The reasoning is it was thought that the heart was connected to this hand through a vein in that particular finger. Amazingly, this tradition has carried on throughout the ages.
Archaeologists have also discovered wedding rings dating back to ancient Greek and Roman times (though, unlike their Egyptian counterparts, these were made of leather, bone, and later iron, silver, or gold). Next, beautifully designed rings with tiny engravings popped up during the Middle Ages. Finally, the ring began to assume a profoundly religious meaning when Christianity reigned in Europe. It often featured a miniature cross carved into the surface during this period. Or sometimes, even a carving of Jesus.
When Did Diamonds Become Popular?
This is where history gets fascinating. While diamond rings have always been around, the standard was set in the 1940s. This is when De Beers Jewelers officially launched their mastermind marketing campaign. Do you know it? Even today, we hear their slogan on the radio all the time. It goes, “A diamond is forever.” These brilliant four words propelled diamond engagement and wedding rings into stardom! Suddenly, a romantic man wouldn’t be caught dead proposing to his girl without a sparkly diamond ring. It’s now a multi-billion-dollar industry. All thanks to a smart move by a genius salesman.
The Meaning Behind the Ring
Today, wedding rings are a symbol of love. Different cultures use rings to express their lifelong commitment to a partner. For some, the ring is a visual reminder that a person has chosen to become a husband or wife.
Many believe that the circle shape of the wedding band also represents the sanctity of marriage, and as a result, people take great care never to lose or misplace their precious jewelry. But, of course, no one must wear a ring to prove their dedication. Millions of couples choose to do it, but by no means is it a requirement to get married (or engaged, even.)
Ultimately, the Choice is Yours
Couples now have a wide selection of rings to choose from. Everything from eco-friendly wood rings, tattooed rings, and antique silver heirlooms to non-traditional gemstones such as amethyst, ruby, opal, etc., are utilized in this meaningful symbol of love. You can even design your custom ring and make it, especially for you. Having the ring redesigned using family heirlooms is also possible to repurpose a family treasurer.
However, a couple deciding to express their commitment through their chosen ring style is entirely up to them. But the tradition of the wedding ring has been around for centuries, and it is not showing any signs of changing any time soon.
