Why the heck do we wear wedding rings? A history lesson
Picture this: in the ancient lands of Egypt, couples exchanged rings crafted from braided reeds and hemp, symbolising a love that was meant to withstand the test of time. As civilizations flourished, the tradition continued, with Greeks and Romans upgrading to rings of iron and gold, as if shouting to the world, "Our love is as strong as these precious metals!".
Just like the Greeks and Romans, we favour enduring metals like Damascus and Stainless steel. Highly durable and resilient, these metals will last many lifetimes and wearing them will leave you feeling as powerful as the Vikings who perfected the Damascus craft all those centuries ago.
The trend of personalising wedding rings emerged swiftly. In the glorious days of the Byzantine Empire, rings started to bear engravings of the happy couple themselves. As the 15th century rolled in, the rise of 'Posie rings' took hold, these rings featured a concise message and captivated many with their witty verses. The messages became more intimate as time went on, and couples were clever enough to hide them on the inside of the ring, a secret code of love known only to the wearer.
Even today, nearlyweds can't resist the charm of adding an engraving to their precious rings. So, if you're ready to sprinkle some whimsy on your special day, why not let your ring do all the talking? It's a delightful way to express your love in a unique and personal way, and a timeless tradition that continues to captivate couples who want to make their love story even more extraordinary.
In all corners of the world, wedding rings have been an essential token of love and commitment. From intricate Celtic knot designs that tie the knot of everlasting love to Indian rings bedazzled with gemstones that scream, "We're rolling in love and prosperity!" Every culture adds its own touch of flair and sparkle to the ring-wearing extravaganza. Now, there's a style for every taste and a love story behind each shimmering masterpiece. Love and fashion unite to create a dazzling display! With changing trends and personal preferences, couples now have the freedom to select rings that reflect their unique love story and showcase their individuality.
In LGBTQIA+ marriages, wedding rings can transcend traditional gender roles and expectations. Couples now have the freedom to redefine the symbolism of wedding rings based on their own identities and preferences. For example, a couple may choose matching rings to signify their equal partnership, or choose to wear their rings on their right hand as a way to distance themselves from the heteronormative societal expectations. Interestingly, before the legalization of same-sex marriage, wearing a ring on the right hand's ring finger served as a subtle indicator of love among LGBTQIA+ couples.
Breaking free from gender norms allows LGBTQIA+ couples to create their own traditions and expressions of love through the exchange of wedding rings. In a world where LGBTQIA+ relationships have faced constant challenges, wearing wedding rings becomes a powerful testament to enduring love. The rings serve as a visual representation of commitment, resilience, and the strength of LGBTQIA+ relationships despite the challenging history many have faced.
Legend has it that ancient Romans and Egyptians believed in a vein, aptly named the "vein of love," which ran directly from that finger to the heart. This notion captured the imagination of lovers through the ages, adding a touch of romance and intrigue to the choice of wearing wedding rings on the fourth finger. It's like a hidden love highway that fuels the flames of eternal romance.
The shape of wedding rings, a never-ending loop, represents the eternal nature of love and the everlasting devotion of marriage. It's like a mesmerising carousel ride that reminds us that true love knows no boundaries and no breaks!
The glittering saga of wedding rings takes us on a captivating journey through time, love, and human connection. From ancient civilisations to modern expressions of love, these radiant symbols continue to weave tales of commitment, unity, and everlasting romance.
So, as you slip that ring on your finger, remember the centuries of love and tradition it represents. Don't forget to consider the durability, colour, and unique qualities of a ring to find the perfect symbol of your love and commitment. May your wedding ring be a constant reminder of the enduring power of love, uniting you in a timeless and everlasting embrace!
