A wedding ring is a symbol of love and commitment, worn by married couples as a token of their eternal bond. It is an extremely personal piece of jewellery, often engraved with meaningful dates, symbols, initials or poems. It can also include gemstones or diamonds, or a combination of precious metals. A well-chosen and designed ring can become an heirloom, passed down from generation to generation.
The wedding ring is an ancient tradition and has been cherished by many cultures for its symbolic significance. The circle is a universal symbol that represents infinity and eternity, and it was believed by early ancient cultures to signify wholeness and perfection.
It’s no surprise that the wedding ring holds such a special place in the hearts of many people, as it’s a physical representation of a lifetime commitment to one person. It is also a sign of devotion, loyalty and trust. And it’s no wonder that there are so many different traditions associated with the wearing and exchange of wedding rings.
The earliest known wedding rings date back to the same part of the world that’s credited with the birth of human civilisation. Relics found in Egypt show that men offered their brides simple bands made of woven reeds or hemp, as a symbol of their vows to be faithful. The wedding ring has continued to be a beloved tradition, with both modern and traditional styles available for every couple.
Today’s wedding rings can be made of a variety of materials, with gold remaining the most popular option. It’s a very durable metal and comes in a number of beautiful shades, including yellow, white and rose gold. For those with a more contemporary taste, platinum is also becoming an increasingly popular choice for its durability and strength. Another great advantage of platinum is that it is hypoallergenic and won’t react with certain skin conditions.
While a plain gold or silver wedding band is the most common form, many couples choose to add a personal touch. This can be done through engraving, which has been a popular tradition since the Renaissance. It’s also possible to have the ring personalised with gemstones, or even a song lyric, poem or quote.
Some people wear their wedding ring alongside their engagement ring on the left hand, while others prefer to keep them separate and only wear their wedding ring for special occasions. But no matter how you choose to wear your ring, it’s important to take care of it and treat it with the love and respect that it deserves.
In a time where so many marriages end in divorce, it’s important for us to remember that the wedding ring is a constant reminder of your commitment to your partner, and to honour their commitment to you. If you are struggling in your relationship, don’t be afraid to seek help. There are a number of professionals who are trained in marriage counselling and can offer you professional advice to get your relationship back on track.