Why People Wear Wedding Rings Differently Across the World

A wedding ring can indicate whether someone is married and provides clues about their place of residence and cultural heritage. The finger on which the ring is worn, the material from which it is made, and the shape of the wedding ring itself play an important role.

The origins of the wedding rings

It’s unclear when the tradition of exchanging wedding rings started, but it is believed to have appeared in Ancient Egypt and Greece. Initially, rings were made from plant stems, leather, and ivory, but later metal, particularly iron, replaced these materials. Men occasionally gave gold or silver rings to their brides as a sign of trust. In the second century BCE, Roman brides received 2 rings: a gold one for public occasions and an iron one for household tasks. This custom continued for several centuries.

In the Middle Ages, giving a wedding ring became part of the marriage ceremony. In the Renaissance, wealthy individuals began giving diamond rings for engagements after Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented one to Mary of Burgundy.

The mining of diamonds increased in the late nineteenth century, making them more affordable for people with lower incomes. Although the tradition diminished in the early twentieth century, De Beers’ 1938 marketing campaign re-established the tradition of giving a diamond engagement ring. Wedding rings have come a long way in terms of materials and appearance, as demonstrated in this article. You can learn how to understand the difference between types of gold and identify gemstones to be prepared for anything.

The appearance of wedding rings

While traditional wedding rings are plain, modern options now include inlay and engravings. Knowing how to take care of your wedding ring regardless of appearance is important. Those who prefer unique and sophisticated styles may appreciate Gimmal or Claddagh rings.

Gimmal, meaning “twin” in Old French, is a puzzle ring that consists of two or three identical bands. During the 16th and 17th centuries, these rings were popular in England, Germany, and other parts of Europe. The rings were separated into sections and given to the fiancé, bride, and witness as a symbol of their commitment.

Claddagh rings are named after a small fishing village in Ireland where they were first crafted. The rings feature two hands holding a heart topped with a crown. These rings are often given as gifts to future brides or close friends as a symbol of loyalty.

Wearing a Claddagh ring also has symbolic significance. If the ring is worn on the left hand with the heart facing out, it signifies engagement. When worn on the left hand with the heart facing the wrist, it means the wearer is married. Wearing the ring on the right hand with the heart facing in indicates the wearer is in a relationship or in love and wearing it with the heart facing out shows they are single.