For centuries, couples around the world have been symbolising their unconditional love for one another with a beautiful diamond engagement ring. Discover the fascinating history of the wedding ring and why it has become a customary way to showcase your love and commitment.
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Discover the fascinating history of the wedding ring
THE HISTORY & FIRST EXCHANGE OF A WEDDING RING
Did you know the first wedding ring dates back to 3000 years ago? The first recorded evidence of a formal exchange of rings between two people was found in ancient Egyptian. Writings, better known as papyrus scrolls featured couples exchanging rings made of hemp or reeds. These rings generally didn’t last long and were replaced by either leather or ivory. The more expensive the material, the more love was shown to the person receiving the ring. In addition, the type of material also represented the net worth of the giver. Documented evidence showed that these rings symbolised everlasting love and commitment between two people – the circle of the ring represented no beginning and no end. The inside of the ring symbolised the future, which still applies to the symbol of rings today.
The history of wedding rings date back to 3000 years
THE HISTORY OF THE WEDDING RING IN ANCIENT ROME
In Ancient Rome, the groom would represent his future bride with an iron ring. This gesture started the trend of using precious metals in our wedding bands today. The durable metal represents permanence and strength, representing the bond of the couple. Evidence dates back that Romans were the first to engrave their metal rings. The Romans, as well as the Greeks, wore the symbolic ring on the fourth finger on the left, as we wear it today. The ring finger, as we know it today was believed to contain the vena amoris, a vein that leads straight to the heart. When the ring was placed on the ‘vein of love’ it represented the sacred union formed between two people. Up until today, a beautiful engagement ring symbolises the unconditional love between couples. Explore the fascinating history of a diamond engagement ring and how the design progressed through the years here.
- FUN FACT – Even though South Africans wear their diamond engagement ring on their left-hand ring finger, most European couples wear their rings on their right hand. Why? The theory has it the ring will get less damaged due to most people being right-handed.
Iron rings were given to brides to symbolise unity between the wife and the husband
WEDDING RING DURING THE RENAISSANCE PERIOD
Gimmel ring Gimmel rings known as a ring consisting of two interlocking parts, were extremely popular during the 16th and 17th century. After a couple got married, each one would take one part of the ring to wear. The ceremony included the groom taking the ring and placing it on the bride’s finger, reuniting the matched set. During the Renaissance period, highly ornate sterling silver poesy rings made their introduction to the market. Many other cultures during this time period encouraged the exchange of wedding rings to symbolise the unity between two people; the Hindu bichiya introduced the toe ring while people from West Bengal exchanged iron bangle.
- FUN FACT – Before the rise of diamond jewellery, husbands from Puritan Colonial America gave their brides thimble to symbolise their love.
During the Renaissance period, highly ornate sterling silver poesy rings made their introduction to the market
THE HISTORY OF THE WEDDING RING & THE IMPACT IT HAD ON MODERN PROPOSALS
Today, a diamond engagement ring is a perfect way to represent your commitment and unconditional love to one another. A diamond is one of the hardest substances known to man, symbolising the unity of forever. In addition, the precious diamond can be carried on from one generation to the next – the perfect way for loved ones to remember the sacred bond their parents and great grandparents shared back in the day.
- FUN FACT – Did you know in many cultures only the woman was expected to wear a wedding ring? It was only during World War II that men started wearing wedding rings in a way to remember their wives back at home.
A diamond is one of the hardest substances known to man
Are you planning a trip to Cape Town? Make sure to visit the Cape Town Diamond Museum for more fascinating facts about engagement rings and the remarkable beauty of a diamond. The 45-minute tour through the Cape Town Diamond Museum will take you back 3.3 billion years ago, to when the journey all began. This personally guided tour should not be missed when visiting the Mother City.
FAQs
Blake Lively's
Just a casual 12-carat oval diamond ring from Ryan Reynolds is what Blake Lively sports on her ring finger each and every day. Designed by Lorraine Schwartz, this pink diamond is estimated just over $2 million.
What is the history of the diamond ring? ›
In 1477, Archduke Maximillian of Austria commissioned the very first diamond engagement ring on record for his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy. This sparked a trend for diamond rings among European aristocracy and nobility.
What is the history of the wedding ring? ›
The tradition of exchanging wedding rings can be traced back to ancient Rome. However, unlike the exchange of rings in today's marriage ceremonies, rings were not exchanged between partners as they get married. Instead Roman men would present a ring to the bride's father as a symbol of purchase.
What is the symbolism of the wedding ring? ›
Wedding rings represent the unbreakable bond of lifelong love and commitment between two married people. They are exchanged as part of the marriage ceremony in the United States and many other countries, and are often—but not always—made with a relatively simple design.
How much did Blake Shelton pay for the engagement ring? ›
The real jaw-dropper, though, is the calculated price tag—an estimated value of $500,000! Her one-of-a-kind sparkler is flanked with two trapezoid side diamonds, adding to its unique and opulent style.
How many carats is Gwen Stefani's engagement ring from Blake Shelton? ›
Gwen's engagement ring from Blake Shelton is estimated to be valued at around $500,000. The gorgeous eight-carat diamond engagement ring from The Voice star got some close-up photos while appearing on Home & Family.
How much should an engagement ring cost? ›
While engagement rings are a pricy investment, the usual cost tends to be below $10,000, with a national average of $6,000, according to The Knot's 2022 Jewelry and Engagement Study.
Which finger should engagement ring be worn? ›
In most western countries, tradition dictates that the engagement ring be worn on the fourth finger (known commonly as the ring finger) of the left hand. The left ring finger is the fourth finger (next to your pinky or little finger).
How much should you spend on an engagement ring traditionally? ›
According to the classic engagement ring cost rule, you should spend three months' salary on an engagement ring for your loved one – after all, they'll be wearing that ring for the rest of their life.
What does the Bible say about wearing wedding rings? ›
Rings represent commitment, as in the Prodigal Son parable when the father gave his son a ring representing his full acceptance back into the family. However, nowhere in Scripture are believers commanded to wear wedding rings. The Bible emphasizes inner qualities like love and faithfulness far above outward symbols.
This two-ring tradition may be traced back to ancient Rome. In the Roman era, brides were given two rings: an iron ring for everyday wear and a golden one as a sign of wealth and status. Many couples today opt for the more traditional version with an engagement ring and a wedding band.
What finger does a man wear his wedding ring? ›
Traditionally wedding rings, at least in America, go on the left ring finger (the second finger from the left) for both women and men, although you will find many exceptions based on cultural and personal preferences.
What does a ring represent in the Bible? ›
Rings were used as a signet ( Genesis 38:18 ). They were given as a token of investment with authority ( Genesis 41:42 ; Esther 3:8-10 ; 8:2 ), and of favour and dignity ( Luke 15:22 ). They were generally worn by rich men ( James 2:2 ). They are mentioned by Isiah ( 3:21 ) among the adornments of Hebrew women.
Can I wear my wedding ring after divorce? ›
Usually in divorce, a wedding ring is considered the property of the spouse to whom it was given. But if your wedding ring or the diamond in it was your ex-spouse's family heirloom, you might want to consider giving it back, even if you're under no legal obligation to do so.
What does a ring mean spiritually? ›
The spiritual meanings associated with rings encompass a wide spectrum, embracing concepts of eternity, unity, and devotion through their circular form. Rings can symbolise profound commitments to spiritual paths, serving as reminders of faith and beliefs.
How big is Mila Kunis engagement ring? ›
Mila Kunis has a round-cut five-carat diamond in her Tiffany solitaire engagement ring.
What is Blake Lively's engagement ring? ›
Perhaps the most notable feature is that it is a very light blush-colored diamond. Pink diamonds, such as the one used in her setting, are among the rarest colored diamonds in the world, making her ring even more unique. The Blake Lively engagement ring is a 14k rose, gold pave band.
How big is Meghan Markle's engagement ring? ›
The center stone is a cushion cut diamond weighing around 3 carats. It was sourced from Botswana, a country where the couple spent significant time building their relationship. The two round side diamonds are about 1 carat each, and come from Princess Diana's personal jewelry collection.
What kind of engagement ring does Blake Lively have? ›
Blake Lively's ring features a stunning 12 carat, flawless, pink oval-cut diamond in a rose gold setting. The rose gold band is encrusted with pavé diamonds for extra sparkle. And if you look just below the center stone, you will find a pretty hidden halo shining back at you.