Wedding Rings and Wedding Bands - A Short History
The original wedding rings are usually credited to the ancient Egyptians. Who, 4,800 years ago are said to have exchanged bands, woven from fibrous plants link hemp for example. The Romans exchanged rings made of iron. These bands signified "ownership" of the wife by the husband and constituted a binding agreement between the two. The reason both the Romans and Egyptians prior to them, wore the wedding band on the forth finger of the left hand, was rooted in their belief that the "love vein", the vena amoris, ran directly to the heart and thereby connected the two. Even today the wedding band is always worn first, closest to the heart.
More than 2000 years ago puzzle rings first showed up in Asia. It was not uncommon for these types of rings to be worn as wedding bands. Sheiks and Sultans would require each of their many wives to wear such a ring, symbolizing the eternal devotion.
Europeans throughout the 17th century exchanged bands engraved with phrases that frequently cited phrases found in one of Shakespeare's plays. These rings were known as poesy rings. This custom of personalizing a band is still carried on today. Brides and grooms exchanging bands with words of love, commitment, and dedication permanently etched within the wedding band.
Today, wedding bands can be found or custom made in a variety of precious medals like gold, platinum and silver. As well as a variety of alternative metals like titanium and stainless steel. Take care when considering the purchase of an alternative medal band as the option to resize your wedding band at a future time is greatly diminished or eliminated entirely.
Something Old, Something New, Something borrowed, Something Blue
This wonderful custom is definitely English in origin, and is likely from the Victorian era. You see, the last line of the verse is often left out... "And a Silver Sixpence in her Shoe".
Each line of the verse is a wish for, and a symbol of good luck for the bride. The "sixpence" was a symbol for wealth and financial stability. Some believe this custom came from the Scottish tradition of the groom placing a silver coin under his shoe for luck.
"Something Old" is to signify the strength and unity of bride, her family and the past. "Something New" is to signify hope and optimism for the brides new life ahead of her. "Something borrowed" is to signify the bride being able to depend upon her friends and family in the future.
"Something Blue" is to symbolize modesty, fidelity and love. Ever wonder why Christians always dressed the Virgin Mary in blue? Because blue was a symbol of purity and an exceptionally popular color for wedding gowns prior to the late 19th century. Modern brides will often wear jewelry of blue topaz or blue sapphires to hold true to tradition.
Weddings and Jewelry - What's a Bride to Do?
It's unlikely that brides are getting a shortage of advice. Parents, in-laws, friends and family. Deciding on the right wedding band or bridal gown can be, and should be, an exciting an pleasurable adventure.
A wonderful place to get terrific advice and ideas is from a forum online. Wedding - Jewelry forums attract, consumers and experts alike willing to share personal thoughts and expert opinions on everything from buying the perfect wedding ring to having your jewelry custom designed. From the best wedding planning tips to that romantic honeymoon. Share your thoughts and ideas on your perfect wedding to the diamond wedding band you're looking for and get feedback and advice from "brides-to-be" like yourself to industry experts all in place.
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