Many believe that the custom of exchanging wedding rings is an ancient practice spanning centuries. As you are aware, these rings symbolize an unending bond between partners. But when did wedding rings come into existence? What was the reason behind their creation?
This article delves into the history of wedding rings, examining their origins, significance, and development. We will provide a detailed exploration of the presence of wedding rings from ancient civilizations to modern times.
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When Were Wedding Rings Invented?
To understand the essence of wedding rings, we must first investigate what was used before their modern form. A look into the rich history of jewelry reveals that wedding rings originated about 5000 years ago in Ancient Egypt.
The Egyptians made rings from braided reeds and hemp, worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, believing it contained the ‘vein of love’ directly linked to the heart. This Egyptian practice highlighted the ring‘s symbolism as an endless circle, representing an unbreakable promise of love and commitment.
The Greeks adopted and adapted this Egyptian tradition, creating rings from materials like leather, bone, and ivory. These rings symbolized mutual love and obedience, often depicting Eros (the god of love). Such rings laid the foundation for future innovations in wedding jewelry.
This tradition of wedding rings also spread to the Roman Empire. After conquering Greece, the Romans adopted the exchange of rings and introduced metal bands.
Romans also popularized the engraving of their rings, embedding the concept of personalized matrimonial jewelry. These early ring forms established the groundwork for future wedding jewelry innovations.
How did wedding rings evolve?
Wedding rings have seen significant changes since their inception. The Medieval period introduced the incorporation of precious gems into ring designs.
In Medieval Europe, different gems held specific meanings: diamonds symbolized enduring strength, rubies represented passion, and sapphires signified the heavens.
The early Middle Ages saw the rise of personalized wedding rings. Portrait rings and fede rings became increasingly popular. Rings from this period often featured engraved faces or full figures of the couple.
The introduction of Christianity as Europe’s official religion brought changes to these rings, adding crosses or Jesus’s image between the couple’s engraved faces to signify the church’s blessing of their marriage.
Fede motifs were also popular in the Roman Empire. By the 1600s, fede rings had evolved into what we now know as the Claddagh ring, which, beyond the interlocking hands, included a heart, crown, or gem at the center.
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Renaissance and Enlightenment period
During the Renaissance and Elizabethan periods, poesy rings engraved with romantic poetry became popular. These rings first appeared in the 15th century.
The earliest poesy ring designs were bold, with the words etched on the outside rather than hidden on the inside. Over time, poesy rings evolved to feature simpler designs.
The Renaissance period also witnessed the rise of gimmel rings. Contrary to poesy rings, gimmel rings transitioned from simple forms to more elaborate designs as goldsmithing techniques advanced. Featuring two to three interlocking bands, they elegantly demonstrate how separate elements can be independent yet form a whole when combined.
Traditionally, both the bride and groom would wear a part of the ring before their wedding, signifying their union by bringing them together on the big day. These rings often showcased exquisite gemstones and detailed engravings accentuated by vibrant enamel. Those who favor simplistic engraved rings with a rugged charm may appreciate our Raw Balinese ring.
History of Diamond Wedding Rings
Diamonds became an integral part of wedding ring traditions as symbols of lasting strength and love. The first recorded diamond ring dates back to the late 100s AD in Rome and belonged to a girl. However, it is unclear if it was a romantic gift or a status symbol.
This ambiguity is the reason why many historians assert that the 15th century marks the true rise of diamond engagement rings. The trend began with European aristocracy, pioneered by Archduke Maximilian of Austria in 1477.
According to the account of the first documented diamond engagement, Archduke Maximilian of Austria commissioned a diamond ring for his fiancée, Mary of Burgundy, leading by example among the European elite.
Although these claims are supported by the American Gem Society, other sources suggest that the first documented diamond betrothal ring was in Europe at the wedding of the Italian couple Costanzo Sforza and Camilla D’Aragona in 1475.
The Tradition of Diamond Engagement Rings
While diamond rings were used as engagement rings throughout the 17th century, the tradition became most widespread in the 20th century, largely due to De Beers’ “A Diamond is Forever” campaign.
In 1947, De Beers introduced its iconic slogan, “A Diamond is Forever,” embedding the idea in the American consciousness that marriage, like a diamond, is eternal. This shifted the norm towards diamond rings for engagements, with modern couples seeking unique styles to express their individuality.
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When Did Women Start Wearing Diamond Wedding Rings?
As previously mentioned, records indicate that women began wearing diamond rings in the 15th century. The trend began among noble figures, with the first diamond ring belonging to Duchess Mary of Burgundy. The ring commissioned by Archduke Maximilian featured small flat diamonds and an engraved ‘M’.
Other notable women who received diamond wedding rings during the following period include Elizabeth I and Mary, Queen of Scots. Although both were given diamond rings as marriage proposals, neither engagement succeeded.
When Did Men Start Wearing Diamond Wedding Rings?
Up until the last century, wedding rings were predominantly worn by women. The practice of both partners wearing rings gained popularity during World War II.
American and European soldiers wore wedding bands as reminders of their spouses and loved ones waiting back home. This tradition continued through the Korean War, after which the concept of men wearing wedding rings became widely accepted in civilian life.
Conclusion
Examining the origins of wedding rings unveils a fascinating history of human culture, reflecting how customs and traditions have evolved over millennia. So, when were wedding rings first invented?
As discussed, the Egyptians were the pioneers, exchanging simple reed bands. This practice was adopted and transformed by the Greeks and Romans. Although our insight is limited, we can trace the evolution through the customs of each period.
During Medieval times, intricate gold designs were exchanged between couples, symbolizing the love and commitment that binds them. The trend underwent another significant transformation in the 20th century with the popularity of diamond rings.
