Wedding Rings: History and Tradition
An essential part of a civil and/or religious ceremony, wedding rings have now become true fashion accessories and are increasingly adorned with precious stones. A closer look at this essential piece of jewelry.
History and traditions
If the exchange of wedding rings is a very deep-rooted wedding custom , it is because this pagan practice already existed in Ancient Rome. In Antiquity, the two rings already had their present-day meaning, namely the commitment of the two people. They were also similar to a real marriage contract between the future spouses. At that time, the ring was not yet a diamond wedding ring , as we find today. Indeed, they were simple rings and this geometric shape was mainly chosen because, without beginning or end, the circle represents eternity.
According to every belief and civilization, rings symbolized eternity, life, fidelity, or even passion. Initially, these rings were worn on the left hand, since it is the part of the body closest to the heart. Moreover, in the third century, Greek physicians demonstrated that certain nerves in this fourth finger were directly connected to the heart. Compressed, these nerve endings would thus ensure eternal love between spouses. And even though this theory has been contradicted by scientists today, many people continue to believe this myth.
The Evolution of Wedding Rings
Among the ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans, wedding rings were made from natural materials most commonly found in antiquity, such as rushes, reeds, and papyrus. Unfortunately, twisted or braided, the rings were not very strong and broke very quickly. This is why these materials were replaced by ivory, bone, or leather. Later, bronze, iron, and brass were the most commonly used.
It was not until the thirteenth century that the first gold wedding rings appeared in Christian religious ceremonies. The ring was then a simple band. Today, many couples still opt for this simple shape. And it was during the eighteenth century that rings decorated with precious stones made their appearance. Preferences went to the diamond, which symbolized eternity and purity, the ruby for passionate love, and the emerald for hope.
Finally, concerning the inscriptions inlaid inside the rings, the Romans would be at the origin of this practice to signify to their wives that from now on they belonged to them body and soul.
Reference: www.secretdemariage.com
