Have you ever wondered why couples exchange wedding rings? Well, this important custom is one of the oldest wedding traditions that we have. For thousands of years, couples have exchanged rings to demonstrate their lifelong dedication to one another. Learn how this important tradition came to symbolize the ultimate commitment between two people.
Prehistoric Times
There is evidence that wedding rings were first exchanged during prehistoric times. During those times, marriage was mainly used to decrease tribal tensions. Men would choose a bride and tie a band of grass or rope around her finger to symbolize their union.
Ancient Egyptians
The Ancient Egyptians exchanged rings that were made of ivory, bones or woven reeds. They were twisted and braided into wedding bands. Rings were placed on the third finger of the left hand because the Egyptians believed that the “Vein of Love” ran directly from that particular finger to the heart. The Egyptians also believed that the hole in the center of the ring was a gateway that signifies immortal love.
Ancient Romans
Metal wedding bands began to be exchanged during Roman times. In Roman times, the value of the ring was a symbol of the wealth of the giver. Wealthier men gave their brides gold bands, while less affluent men usually gave iron or other less expensive metals. Engrained in the belief that the more expensive the ring, the stronger the love, Roman men would give the most expensive ring that they could afford.
Georgian Era
During the Georgian era, it was customary for the groom to place a ring on his bride’s finger during the wedding. Georgian wedding bands were usually gold. They often were adorned with embellishments and had intricate designs. It is during this era that precious gemstones such as diamonds, rubies and sapphires made their first appearance on wedding rings.
Victorian Era
Wedding rings became more lavish during the 1800s, at least in the United States and Europe. Advancement in technology lead to a increase in the mining of precious gemstones and metals, making it more affordable than in years past. Victorian wedding rings were typically gold. They often featured colored gemstones, including topaz, rubies, sapphires and pearls. The rings were sometimes embellished with intricate engraving. Wedding rings that resembled snakes were common during Victorian times as snakes were considered to be symbols of eternity.
The 20th Century Through Today
Before the 20th Century, it was not commonplace for many men to wear wedding bands, and it wasn’t until the 1940’s when customs changed. During World War II it became customary for soldiers to wear them to remind them of their wives back home. Since that time, the custom has been for both men and women to exchange them during the ceremony.
Throughout the years, the actual exchange of wedding bands has shifted somewhat. But, the tradition of exchanging bands still symbolizes the same thing, a couple’s eternal commitment to one another.