Origins of the wedding ring and jewelry related information

This site was built to search out and explain the history of the wedding ring. You will find information on the evolution of the wedding ring and its history through the Christian faith.

"With this ring, I thee wed" - The words that unite two people in love. The wedding ring is a symbol tied to romantic traditions that have run through the course of time. The circular band, as far back to a time when Pharaohs used to rule the land, was seen as a representation of eternity and a love that has neither a beginning nor an end. As time passed the bands became decorated with gems which too were symbolic with the red ruby symbolizing the heart, the blue sapphire reflecting the heavens and the diamond representing indestructible love.

Blessing the bands was believed to give it power to rid disease and guard the wearer from devils
If the ring falls to the floor during the ceremony it is an omen of future disaster.
During the service the wedding ring is placed on the fourth finger of the left hand. Why this particular finger? There are a number of possible reasons for this. In early Christian marriages, the priest would touch three fingers on the left hand while reciting "In the Name of the Father, the Son and Holy Spirit" and then close with "Amen" on the ring finger. Most people prefer to subscribe to the more romantic option of the vena amoris, or vein of love, running from this finger to the heart. It was during the reign of King Edward IV that it was decreed that the fourth finger be formally known as the "ring finger," shortly following this The Book of Common Prayer termed the left hand as the "marriage hand."

As a side note it is interesting to note why in today's culture it is necessary to give the pride two pieces of jewelry. This came about because Pope Innocent III instituted a waiting period between engagement and marriage in the 13th century.

Another side note: A recent jewelry item brought over after WWII was the italian charm bracelet. They can be expensive or inexpensive italian charms. The cost depends on what type and style you buy.

It is indeed inspiring to know that this noble and touching tradition has managed to transcend history and hold its place in our modern times despite all the changes that have passed over the world. The simple band concept though has been expanded upon and a whole diversity of designs and styles now exist.

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