Nearly every wedding fashion piece had a history and was borrowed from somewhere a long time ago. Bridesmaid dresses, the veil and wedding gown – each had their own origin story, and some are hilarious. Have you ever wondered how and where the tradition of wearing wedding rings started from?
What were the early wedding rings like? Why are wedding rings shaped the way they are, and why are they worn on the middle of the left finger? How and when did diamond wedding rings become popular? Scroll or swipe down for the answers and other interesting history and facts about the wedding ring you probably didn’t know.
Photo Credit: @mynameisobi | Nigerian-UK Photographer, Obi Nwokedi
Why Is the Wedding Ring Worn On the Left Middle Finger?
It’s because the third left finger, aka the ring finger, is the only finger with a vein that connects straight to the heart – and you know what they say that love is a matter of the heart. By the way, some people call that vein the ‘vein of love’. It’s funny, but I’ve received some questions asking me “what finger should I wear my wedding ring?” The wedding ring should be worn on the third finger of the left hand, and now you know why.
Where & How Did the Tradition Of Wedding Rings Start From?
Wedding rings symbolize unity and eternity. It was said that the tradition of wearing wedding rings dates back to over three thousand years ago, and started in Egypt (oh yes, Egypt in Africa). At the time rings became part of weddings, it was a symbol for parents to know that the groom has the resources could support his wife. Then rings were made from the iron metal and only the royals wore wedding rings made from gold. For occasions, some rich people wore gold rings.
Why is the Wedding Ring Shape Circular?
It was said that at the time wedding rings evolved, the circle was a symbol of eternity, and weddings are the first step to marriage which was regarded as a thing of forever/ eternity.
When did Diamonds Become Popular as a Ring Stone?
Diamonds became popular as bridal jewelry when America was discovered, at about the time that South African mines were found. Before then, ruby was a very popular ring stone.
Why You Should Not Choose Your Wedding Ring In a Hurry
Your wedding day will come and go, but the wedding ring is the one thing that will forever (hopefully) stare you in the face every day as a reminder of your commitment to each other.
You’ll have to wear your wedding ring every day, while working, in the kitchen, sleeping or taking a bath – so it’s important to find a ring that will not go out of fashion, and that you’ll like forever just like your marriage.
So, you should buy a wedding ring that you’ll never get tired of wearing, one that will not go out of style and design. The beautiful wedding ring photos (in the post I linked above) will inspire you to make an un-regrettable decision about what wedding ring to buy.
We, at NaijaGlamWedding HQ, believe that it’s best to have a clear picture of any wedding thing before heading to the shops, and that includes wedding rings. So, take a look at the picture slides in the video below, to start gathering your thoughts about the type and design of the wedding you should buy.
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Conclusion: Wedding Ring History and Questions
Isn’t it interesting that you’ve now discovered how the whole World conforms to wearing circle-shaped rings as wedding rings, and why the left, middle finger is specially reserved for “the wedding ring”? Now, you also know when diamonds were discovered and that before then, ruby was the ‘ultimate’. By the way, ruby is still one of the best wedding and engagement ring stones to date.
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That’s it from me on interesting facts you need to know about wedding rings history. I’d love to hear from you – comments or feedback. What other interesting wedding ring history did I miss? Tell me in the comments box down below.
I found article interesting n educative.
Thanks, Ado. I’m glad you like that bit about wedding ring history.