Why do we wear rings? Why is the ring finger so called? Find out here.
In all ancient cultures the circle was considered to be the symbol of perfection; it is perfect unity, without beginning or end. It is the symbol of the sun, earth and universe, and represents holiness, perfection and peace.
Why do we wear rings?
Rings are worn for many reasons: simple adornment, those given as a reward, to represent commitment as in engagements and marriages. They can be plain and simple or they can be adorned with jewels or gemstones, as in the case of birthstone rings. Whatever the reason you have for owning and wearing a ring, it should always make you feel special. It is a decorative item after all!
What are rings made from?
Rings can be made of almost any material now. They can be made from plastic, silver, gold, glass or copper, sometimes even wood. They can also be made of ceramics. There are thousands of design styles, from classic designs to intricate filigrees, glass and love hearts.
The early years.
"Look how my ring encompasseth thy finger, Even so thy breast encloseth my poor heart; Wear both of them, for both of them are thine."
Richard the Second: William Shakespeare, 1593
It's generally accepted that rings became popular during the medieval period (c. 475-1450AD). Many people wore rings – the type of ring you owned was, as usual, linked to your wealth! Rings were typically made of iron, copper, silver, and gold. It wasn't until around the 14th century that rings containing faceted jewels appeared.
The hand of marriage and the ring finger.
The ancient peoples believed that the third finger (on the left hand), had a special vein; the vein of "love" running directly to the heart. Considering this has no basis in scientific anatomy, it's all the more impressive that the romantic custom still stands. King Edward VI of England designated the third finger of the left hand as the ring finger. In 1549 the Book of Common Prayer designated the left hand as the marriage hand.
The cultures of rings.
Many cultures typically have rings associated with them, for example early Christians used the Greek "fish" symbol, the Ichtus. The Irish Claddagh is another symbol which most people are aware of. You may not know that Native American tribes often use silver and turquoise in their rings.
View the Kooqi collection of rings.