Wedding Bands: Traditions And Meanings

Wedding bands are a centuries-old tradition, with the first rings being crafted from iron in Ancient Egypt. The exchange of rings is one of the most traditional exercises in marriage and can be traced back to ancient Rome and Greece, where they were associated with the marital dowry and later with a promise of fidelity. In Western culture, a wedding ring is typically worn on the base of the left ring finger, symbolising lifelong love and fidelity.

Traditionally, the groom buys the wedding band for the bride, and the bride buys the wedding band for the groom. However, modern couples often choose to do things differently, with some purchasing their own rings, and others deciding to split the costs equally.

The history of wedding rings

The tradition of exchanging wedding rings has been around for a long time, dating back to ancient civilisations such as the Egyptians, Greeks and Romans. However, the specific origin story varies across different cultures.

Ancient Egyptians are said to have invented the engagement ring, using materials such as braided hemp, reed or hair. The ancient Greeks adopted this tradition, using materials like bone or ivory. However, the Romans are credited with using the ring as a symbol of a business contract, representing the handing over of control of household goods. Wealthier Roman brides would be given two rings: an iron band for wearing at home, and a gold one for displaying in public.

During the Middle Ages in Europe, the exchange of rings became associated with a promise of fidelity. The custom of wearing the ring on the fourth finger of the left hand also originated at this time, due to the belief that a vein in this finger, the 'vena amoris', ran directly to the heart. In the 16th and 17th centuries, husbands bestowed a gimmel ring, consisting of two interlocking bands, upon their wives.

The first evidence of diamonds in engagement rings appeared in the 15th century, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a ring encrusted with diamonds. However, it wasn't until the late 1940s, when De Beers began their "a diamond is forever" marketing campaign, that diamonds became the standard for engagement rings.

In the 12th century, the Christian church established the wedding ceremony, which may have led to the tradition of having both an engagement ring and a separate wedding band. It was during World War II that men began commonly wearing wedding bands, as reminders of their wives at home while they were away at war.

Who buys the wedding bands

Wedding ring traditions have evolved over the years, and while there are no set rules about who buys the wedding bands, there are some conventions that many couples follow.

Traditionally, the groom or his family buys the bride's wedding band, and the bride or her family buys the groom's. This is often seen as a romantic gesture and a gift exchanged as a symbol of love and commitment on the wedding day.

However, modern couples often approach this process differently, especially if they share finances or have a combined pool of money for the wedding. In these cases, it is common for couples to buy the wedding bands together, or for one person to buy both bands, especially if they also bought the engagement ring, which is usually more expensive.

Some couples also choose to split the cost evenly or start a shared wedding bank account that both can contribute to. Ultimately, the decision about who buys the wedding bands is a personal one and should be based on open communication between the couple.

The stone in an engagement ring

While diamonds are captivating, they are not as rare as they once were. Huge diamond mines were discovered in South Africa in the 1870s, and today, there are many other options to choose from. Many coloured gemstones, including coloured diamonds, are much rarer than white diamonds. Their meanings date back thousands of years.

When selecting a coloured engagement ring, the stone is the most exciting part to pick out, as it determines the whole look. It is important to keep an open mind when it comes to the shape of the stone, as the perfect colour may come in a slightly different shape. The colour or the shape of the stone may be prioritised depending on the rarity of the coloured gemstone or diamond chosen.

Some of the most affordable gemstones include aquamarine, morganite, peridot, topaz, garnet, amethyst, citrine, and rose quartz. Rubies and sapphires are the hardest coloured stones and the most durable for everyday wear. On the other hand, pearls and opals are very soft and the most prone to damage and abrasion. Special care should also be taken with emerald rings as they are softer gems, and exposure to abrasion and chemicals can remove the oiling that aids their beauty and luster.

Wedding ring styles

Wedding rings have been exchanged as part of marriage ceremonies for thousands of years, and today there are many styles to choose from.

Classic Wedding Bands

Classic wedding bands are typically unadorned and crafted from precious metals. Gold is a popular choice for its rich glow, hypoallergenic properties, and resistance to rust, tarnishing, and corrosion. Platinum is another option, known for its ability to withstand corrosion and oxidation. It develops a lovely patina over time that can be buffed back to a shine.

Gemstone Wedding Bands

Gemstone wedding bands add a bold pop of colour or a unique twist. Sapphires, for example, come in a rainbow of colours, including pink and blue. Rubies are identical to sapphires in every way but colour. Emeralds, long prized for their lush green hue, are another option.

Diamond Wedding Bands

Diamond wedding bands can be simple or ornate. Micropavé and channel-set diamonds are popular styles, as are eternity bands, which feature an endless row of perfectly matched diamonds or coloured gemstones.

Vintage-Inspired Wedding Bands

Vintage-inspired wedding bands are perfect for those who love intricate details. These rings often feature engravings, milgrain detailing, and fancy-shaped diamonds. Rose gold is a popular choice for its romantic pink hue, created by using a copper alloy.

Curved Wedding Bands

Curved wedding bands, also known as guards, are designed to contour around an engagement ring. They often feature sparkling diamond pavé.

Infinity Wedding Bands

Infinity wedding bands incorporate the infinity sign, symbolising everlasting love and an infinite relationship.

Stackable Wedding Bands

Stackable wedding bands allow couples to create their own personal wedding ring stack. This could include a third band that bookends the engagement ring, multiple skinny bands, or a ring guard to create a stacked look.

Wedding ring materials

Wedding rings have been made from a variety of materials over the years, with traditions varying across different cultures. In ancient times, wedding rings were made from materials such as hemp or leather, and later, precious metals like silver and gold. In modern times, wedding rings are often made from gold, palladium, platinum, argentium silver, titanium, tungsten, or silicone.

Gold has traditionally been the most popular choice for wedding bands, with a history of use dating back to ancient Greece and Rome. Pure gold is soft, so it is usually mixed with other metals to create an alloy. Common types of gold used in jewellery include yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. Yellow gold is made using a combination of pure gold, copper, and zinc, and is the most traditional choice for a women's or men's wedding band metal. White gold is made from a combination of pure gold and metals such as nickel, silver, and palladium, and has become increasingly popular over the last decade. Rose gold, which is made from pure gold combined with copper and silver, has a unique pink, red, and rose colour that is considered to be romantic.

Platinum is another popular choice for wedding bands due to its durability, hypoallergenic properties, and luxurious appearance. Palladium is similar to platinum in appearance but is less durable and costly. Titanium is a lightweight, durable, and affordable alternative to conventional metals like gold and platinum. Tungsten carbide is a very durable metal that resists scratches and wear, making it a good option for those with an active lifestyle. Tantalum is another durable and hypoallergenic metal that is slightly darker in colour than platinum. Cobalt is a popular alternative to white gold, platinum, and palladium, offering improved durability and malleability.

When choosing a wedding band, it is important to consider factors such as durability, appearance, skin tone, and budget. Some metals are more durable and resistant to scratches than others, while some may be more likely to cause skin issues. The colour of the metal can also complement different skin tones, and the price of the ring will depend on the type of metal chosen. Additionally, it is important to ensure that the wedding band matches the wearer's lifestyle, especially if they work with their hands or have an active lifestyle.

Frequently asked questions