Wedding rings – a ubiquitous symbol of love, faithfulness, and trust. While almost all cultures have some form of exchange during wedding ceremonies, the wedding ring has served as the official token of marriage for most Western, Catholic, or orthodox practicing countries. It is believed that they were started as a type of present for those betrothed for marriage. As the tradition stuck through time, they eventually were adapted for both betrothed (or engaged) and married couples. Gentlemen traditionally ask for a lady’s hand in marriage and, if she accepts, she is presented with an engagement ring to wear until the time of marriage, where she is presented with a second ring, known as the wedding ring.
Wedding rings are generally made of a precious metal such as gold or platinum; however, a large percentage of people, specifically males, are choosing different metals like tungsten or palladium. The new materials being chosen for wedding bands can cause problems from time to time. For instance, tungsten rings are not recommended for diabetics or those with circulation or swelling problems. In the event of a medical emergency, traditional rings can be cut from a patient’s hand. A metal like tungsten is far too strong to be cut, but can be broken in a vise. No one wants to put his or her finger in a vise though!
It is considered a rite of passage in some places for a male to find the perfect wedding band for his future wife. For most grooms, this can be a very daunting task. While most women would rather not pick out their own engagement ring, they are usually willing to give some strong suggestions as to their favorite cut of stone, metal, and setting. It is important to choose a beautiful ring as most brides will wear their engagement ring along with their wedding band. As an added convenience, some rings can even be bought in sets, as a matching engagement ring and wedding band.
Choosing a ring for one’s wedding can be an especially difficult task. While yellow gold bands were seen as the standard for many years in the United States, most people find it to be old or outdated. The sight of a gold band on the left hand has always been the universal symbol for a married man or woman. Many brides tend to forgo the yellow gold in lieu of white gold these days. White gold is seen as a timeless material that they can continue to wear for years and years. The decision is usually not taken lightly and can take several weeks or months. A big emphasis is placed on finding the right ring as the wearer may very well wear it for the rest of his or her life. There is no stigma against choosing a new ring, but the cost of such exchanges is certainly not taken lightly.
Overall, wedding rings are a storied and customary necessity for all brides and grooms today. For both parties, they serve as a symbol of their commitment, fidelity, and bond. For those outside the marriage, they serve as a flag, letting potential suitors know that the wearer is taken and in a committed relationship. Wedding rings have been used since before the time of the Ancient Romans and surely, they will be used for centuries to come.
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