The Significance of Ring Wearing:
Exploring the Different Types of Rings and Their Meanings
Engagement Rings
The engagement ring is the first symbol of a couple’s lifelong commitment to each other and it’s a tradition that has been around since the 15th century. Back then, engagement rings were only given to brides-to-be of the wealthy. Over time – thanks to the discovery new diamond mines – diamond engagement rings became synonymous with marriage proposals. Variations on engagement rings have also been popular over time.
Although the metals used for engagement rings have generally been gold and platinum, diamonds haven’t always been the only stones of choice. Colored gemstones have spiked in popularity during different eras as either the main engagement ring stone or as accent stones to the diamond. With so many varieties available, the engagement ring has become a reflection of a bride-to-be’s personal style.
Wedding Bands
Wedding bands have seen an extraordinary revolution from their first recorded history to the elaborate designs of today. The symbolism of the wedding ring has remained true throughout the centuries, however. The wedding ring itself was chosen as the shape to represent marriage because of its endlessness. For Women's wedding rings, it usually have a roll of diamonds on the top, men's wedding bands will normally have less stones on them. A circle has no beginning and no end, just like the promise of marriage. This ideal goes all the way back to the days of cavemen.
Putting the ring on the fourth finger of the left hand came from the belief that there was a vein that ran from that finger straight to the heart. Weddings rings these days come in a variety of metals; from precious to non-precious. However, the most common are gold, platinum and titanium. Even though some couples opt for the simplicity of gold bands, the possibilities for couples wanting unique or uncommon styles are endless; whether it’s through combinations of metals or with diamonds and other gemstones.
Anniversary Rings
Anniversary rings are perfect for marking special milestones in a couple’s
relationship. These rings are generally reserved for women, although men can also update their wedding bands for the occasion. Women’s anniversary rings come in various styles, but the most popular is the three-stone ring that represents the past, present and future. Some come with a more prominent stone in the middle, while others feature three diamonds of the same size. Right-hand rings like those with solitaires or cocktail rings are also popular options for anniversary bands.
Fashion Rings
Fashion rings go beyond basic styles and give a man or woman something truly special for their fingers. Fashion rings feature gemstones that aren’t as common as white diamonds such as rubies, emeralds, sapphires, aquamarines and topazes. Pearls and chalcedonies like onyx and quartz are also found in fashion rings. Fashion rings typically have more intricate designs. Men’s fashion rings go beyond regular bands and make a bold statement with combinations of metals, different metal finishes, diamonds and even angular shapes to the bands.
Eternity Bands
Eternity bands are comprised of identical stones set side-by-side to give the appearance of a continuous line that symbolizes eternal love. The stones can be channel set or they can be set to show minimal gold around the band. They also don’t have to be solely made up of diamonds. Although diamonds are most often used for eternity bands, semi-precious stones such as sapphires or rubies can be used alone or in combinations with diamonds. Eternity rings are the ultimate symbol of continuous, never-ending love.
Tungsten Rings
Tungsten rings are durable rings that offer a unique look. Tungsten carbide is made through a process that forges the powders together in 2,400-degree Fahrenheit to make a metal that is indestructible, hypoallergenic and scratch proof. The rings are polished to create a bright shine and they are 10xs harder than 18 KT gold. Their durability makes them perfect for active men who don’t want to compromise the appearance of their rings with scratches and dents. The rings are laser engraved and can be inlaid with platinum, gold or silver to create intricate patterns, and diamonds can be set to add some extra sparkle.