Franklin Dean
Wedding rings are steeped in tradition and personal meaning, with the custom of wearing a ring on the fourth finger of the left hand dating back to ancient Roman and Egyptian times. Today, there are no steadfast rules about how to wear wedding rings, and couples are making their own traditions. However, if you're curious about the history of your wedding ring or a family heirloom, a reputable antique jeweller can help with dating and appraising. This guide will take you through the process of dating a wedding ring and offer some tips on choosing and wearing your ring.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Metal | Platinum, gold, rose gold, white gold, cobalt, palladium, rhodium |
| Gemstones | Diamonds, moissanite |
| Style | Art Deco, Georgian, vintage, antique, cubism, eternity |
| Finger | Fourth finger of the left hand, third finger of the left hand, right hand |
| Culture | Roman, Egyptian, Latin American, Eastern European, Jewish |
| Practicality | Lifestyle, job requirements, durability |
| Budget | Spend what you feel is right |
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What You'll Learn
The history of wedding rings
The tradition of exchanging wedding rings is an ancient one, dating back 3,000 years. The first diamond wedding ring was recorded in the will of a widow who died in 1417, although some sources state the late 1300s or early 1400s. The first famous diamond engagement ring was given in 1477 by Archduke Maximillian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy.
The ancient Egyptians and Greeks exchanged rings in betrothal and marriage ceremonies. The Romans also exchanged rings to mark engagements, and Roman wedding rings became popular during the third century AD. Roman women were given two rings: one iron ring to be worn while at home and one gold ring to be worn in public. The Romans also adopted the Egyptian belief that the ring finger, or the fourth finger of the left hand, contained a "vena amoris" or "vein of love" that led directly to the heart. This belief was not limited to the Romans, as it was also shared by the Greeks and other ancient civilisations.
During the Middle Ages, wedding rings began to be set with precious gems. Medieval Europeans used rubies to symbolise passion, sapphires to symbolise heaven, and diamonds to symbolise steadfast strength. The Byzantines adopted the Roman tradition of wearing rings with clasped hands, but once Christianity became the Empire's official religion, the couple was often depicted with Jesus or a cross between them, blessing their marriage.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, gimmel rings, consisting of two or three interlocking bands, became popular in Europe. The bride and groom each wore one of these bands after their engagement, and the two bands were reunited during the wedding ceremony. Subsequently, the wife wore the combined ring.
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How to choose a wedding ring
Choosing a wedding ring is a big decision and there are many factors to consider. Firstly, decide whether you want a matching set or non-matching rings. This is a matter of personal preference, and there is no right or wrong answer. If one partner already has an engagement ring, it may be a good idea to choose a wedding ring that complements the engagement ring. For example, you could opt for a ring made from the same metal, or a shaped wedding ring that fits around the engagement ring.
Next, consider the ring design. Choose a style that suits your lifestyle and budget. Think about the type of work you do and how active you are. If you work with your hands or play sports, for example, you may want to opt for a simple solid gold design or a low-profile ring. If you want a ring with gemstones, consider a channel-set design, which will keep the stones secure. You should also consider the profile, width, and metal of the ring.
If you are choosing a ring for your partner, it is important to consider their style and preferences. You could look at their existing jewellery to get a sense of their taste, or ask their friends or family members for advice. If your partner has a Pinterest account, they may have saved wedding-related posts or be following wedding topics, which could give you an idea of the type of ring they might like.
Some people prefer to choose their wedding rings together, seeing it as an opportunity to strengthen their bond. Others prefer the surprise element of one partner choosing the ring. Ultimately, the decision of who chooses the ring varies from couple to couple and there is no one-size-fits-all approach.
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How to wear a wedding ring
There is no definitive "right way" to wear a wedding ring. Traditions and personal preferences vary across different cultures and individuals. Here are some common ways people choose to wear their wedding rings:
Placement on the Ring Finger
In many Western cultures, the wedding ring is traditionally worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, known as the "ring finger." This tradition stems from the belief in ancient Rome that this finger contained the "'vena amoris' or 'vein of love' that ran directly to the heart, symbolizing a connection between the couple's hearts. However, in some Western cultures and many Eastern European, Northern European, and Asian countries, the wedding ring is commonly worn on the fourth finger of the right hand.
Stacking with an Engagement Ring
When wearing both a wedding ring and an engagement ring, there are a few common approaches:
- Wedding Band First: The most common approach is to place the wedding band first, closest to the heart, followed by the engagement ring on top. This arrangement symbolizes the wedding band's representation of marriage vows closer to the heart, while the engagement ring acts as a protective guard.
- Engagement Ring First: Some people prefer to wear the engagement ring first, closer to the palm, followed by the wedding band. This may be due to personal comfort, the design of the rings, or the order in which they were received.
- Soldering Rings Together: Some couples choose to solder their engagement and wedding rings together, creating a unified piece that symbolizes their bond.
Everyday Wear and Special Occasions
Some individuals opt to wear only their wedding band daily, especially if they have an active lifestyle or a job that involves hands-on work, and reserve their engagement ring for special occasions. This practice helps protect the engagement ring from damage or loss.
Ultimately, how you choose to wear your wedding ring is a personal decision that may be influenced by cultural traditions, comfort, and your unique style.
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Matching wedding bands
Many couples also choose to personalise their matching wedding bands with meaningful engravings, such as initials, special dates, or handwritten messages, making their rings truly one-of-a-kind. Unique gemstones, such as sapphires or moss agate, can also be incorporated to add a personal touch and a hint of magic. These special touches ensure that the love and commitment between the couple are reflected in every detail of their forever rings.
When choosing matching wedding bands, it's important to consider practical factors such as lifestyle and job requirements. For example, if one partner frequently works with their hands or needs to remove their jewellery, they might opt for a more durable and practical ring. Discussing preferences and browsing different sets or combinations can help both individuals feel happy and comfortable with their choice. Ultimately, the most important thing is that the couple loves the rings they choose, whether they opt for traditional or non-traditional designs.
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Practical considerations
When it comes to wedding rings, there are several practical considerations to keep in mind. Firstly, it is essential to choose a ring that is comfortable and aesthetically pleasing to the wearer. This may involve considering the size, shape, and style of the ring to ensure it fits well and complements the wearer's style and personality.
Another practical aspect is the order in which the wedding ring and engagement ring are worn. While tradition dictates that the wedding band be worn closest to the heart, with the engagement ring stacked on top, ultimately, the decision is a personal preference. Some people may choose to wear their engagement ring on their right hand during the wedding ceremony and move it to the left hand after the vows, while others may opt for a combined engagement and wedding ring or an enhancer-style wedding ring that frames the engagement ring.
In addition, practical considerations may include the timing of purchasing the wedding band. It is recommended to choose the wedding band at least three months before the wedding date to allow for any customisation or sizing adjustments. Additionally, the cost of the ring is a practical factor, as it is no longer expected to spend three months' worth of salary on an engagement ring. The average cost of an engagement ring is currently $5,500, according to The Knot's 2020 study.
For those who prefer minimalism or don't wear jewellery often, an all-in-one ring may be a more practical option. This combined ring can be designed using stones and gold from sentimental jewellery, creating a unique and meaningful piece. Additionally, for individuals with jobs or hobbies that are tough on the hands, it may be more practical to reserve the engagement ring for special occasions and wear only the wedding band daily.
Lastly, it is essential to consider the practicality of ring care and maintenance. This may include insuring the ring and storing it in a safe place when not being worn. Regular cleaning and polishing may also be necessary to maintain the ring's condition.
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Frequently asked questions
The design of a wedding ring can give clues as to its age. For example, if the ring is made of platinum and features diamonds, it may be an Art Deco ring from the 1920s, as diamonds were not widely used in jewellery until the late Victorian period (1890-1901). Platinum also fell out of use after 1935 due to World War II, so a platinum ring could indicate it is from before this period or a later replica.
Wedding ring traditions vary across the world. In Latin America, rings are worn on the right hand before marriage and then moved to the left hand. In Eastern European cultures, rings are often worn on the right hand. In Jewish weddings, the ring is placed on the bride's index finger and then moved to the ring finger. In some cultures, it is customary to wear the engagement and wedding ring on separate hands.
It is recommended that you buy your wedding ring a few weeks before the wedding day to ensure it fits correctly and looks good alongside your engagement ring.
