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The exact origin of wedding rings is unclear. It is believed that the ancient Egyptians were the first to exchange rings during marriage ceremonies. To them, the circle represented eternity. This symbol of eternal commitment was not always made of metal. It was common for the rings to be of braided grass, ivory, bone and leather. As metals became more popular, the rings evolved, yet maintained their significance of eternal love. Ancient Egyptians placed this ring on the third finger of the left hand because they believed the vein that ran through this finger led straight to the heart. 

Since the ancient Egyptians, nearly every culture has used the ring as a symbol of marriage. Some cultures even used rings to indicate ownership and the intention to marry, nowadays known as an engagement ring. Many years ago, a man had to purchase his bride and show that she belonged to him. The rings was a legal display to seal the engagement. Other cultures allowed the woman to accept or decline his offer. During this time, a man, especially one in competition for a woman’s hand, tried to offer a stronger promise and more security than his competition, thus rings developed from a plain band into more elaborate designs with precious stones. The ring showed that the woman had accepted his offer and was unavailable to others. During these early years, many cultures viewed the engagement ring as sufficient and did not use wedding rings. This changed in the 13^th century when Pope Innocent III required that a waiting period be placed between the engagement and marriage ceremony, and that an additional ring be incorporated into the marriage ceremony. Hence, the set of two rings. The French also used rings to symbolize both engagement and marriage, yet they chose to present them in a more romantic manner. Both the bride and groom-to-be wore rings during their engagement, and upon marrying, the groom removed his ring and gave it to his new wife. To this day, many brides continue the tradition of wearing a set of rings, one the engagement ring and the other the wedding band.

While the ring bears similar significance around the world, its importance and usage varies. Many Europeans continue to follow the traditions of the 18^th century Roman Catholics, whose rings were worn on the right hand. The wealthy Elizabethans wore their ornate rings on their thumbs. As did the Egyptians, the Christians also wore the ring on the 3^rd finger of the left hand, but for different purposes. Before placing the ring of the bride’s hand, a Christian Priest counts the thumb and the next two fingers as he refers to the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost. The sacredness of marriage follows, thus placing the ring on the 4^th finger (if counting the thumb). In Ireland, Claddagh ring can symbolize engagement, marriage or simply friendship. It features clasped hands that surround a heart and topped by a crown, appropriate for all relationship levels. The Russian ring is actually comprised of three different colored rings that are linked together, representing the Holy Trinity. Diamonds have been desired by Italian brides as far back as the 15^th century. They believed that the Flames of Love created diamonds and other precious stones. Likewise, the Victorians highly valued precious stones, especially turquoise and diamonds. They used different stones of various colors to send particular messages to the ones they pursued.

The rich traditions across the world have been somewhat forgotten over the years. Instead of looking to the past, many modern brides let trends influence their purchasing decisions. In fact, brides living in cultures in which rings are worn on the left hand may think this is due simply to functionality – most people are right-handed, so the ring is less likely to be a nuisance and get damaged if worn on the left hand. Regardless of what drives a bride and groom to purchase and wear a particular ring, the most important thing is not to forget the ring’s symbolic meaning: a couple’s commitment and ever-lasting devotion to one another.