Here we explain what you may or may not know about wedding rings.
With the influence of corona, wedding ceremonies, photo weddings, and other wedding preparation methods diversifying, more and more couples are considering the purchase of wedding rings as a milestone.
Wedding rings are so ingrained in our lives that a ring on the ring finger of the left hand is considered a sign of a partner. Because it is something you will share your life with, you may wonder, "What kind of ring should I choose that I won't regret?" It's a question that makes you wonder, "What kind of ring will I not regret?
Why do we wear wedding rings in the first place? Is it really necessary? By understanding the "meaning of wedding rings," you will be able to understand the true significance of wearing a wedding ring and find the wedding ring that is right for you.
Unraveling the History of Wedding Rings
The culture of wearing wedding rings is so well established that many people take it for granted that they should wear them after marriage. By the way, do you know when the custom of exchanging rings between a man and a woman or between partners began? Let's begin by unraveling the history of wedding rings.
Origin of the wedding ring
There are various theories about the origin of wedding rings, but it is said that they existed in ancient Greece, and that Pope Nicholas I exchanged rings as a sign of marriage in the 9th century during the Roman era.
In Europe in the 13th century, the custom of exchanging rings between a man and a woman at the time of marriage seems to have already taken root.
With modernization, to Japan
Wedding rings were introduced to Japan around the time of the opening of the country to the outside world during the Meiji Era. It did not take root immediately, and it seems that the custom of wearing wedding rings took root in Japan in the 1960s, around the time when Western-style weddings became popular amidst the lifestyle that had been greatly westernized after World War II.
What is the meaning of wedding rings?
In ancient Greece, wedding rings were associated with the concept of a contract and were considered to be a sign of such a contract. According to a popular belief of the time, the conduit (blood vessel) that runs from the heart to the ring finger on the left hand was thought to be the conduit of love, and the wedding ring worn on the ring finger of the left hand is said to have been a symbol of love.
Meaning of the wedding ring in modern times
As mentioned above, the wedding ring has long been considered a "symbol of love," and in modern times, the wedding ring remains a "token of the promise of eternal love. Wearing a ring on the ring finger of the left hand suggests the presence of one's partner and serves as a sign to those around one that "I am married.
The Meaning of Exchanging Wedding Rings
Historically, the exchange of wedding rings has been a customary part of Christian weddings. More recently, the exchange of rings has also taken place in public ceremonies and Shinto ceremonies at shrines, indicating that the exchange of wedding rings is now considered an important part of the marriage ceremony.
Once a token of contract, wedding rings have passed through the role of a gift and are now exchanged with one another. This indicates that marriage has gradually changed from a public event to something private for each individual. With the beginning of the exchange of rings came the view that the wedding ring itself was a symbol of two people's married life. Even today, many brides and grooms say that exchanging rings to pledge their love for each other makes them feel a true sense of marriage.
Why Rings are the Mark of Marriage
By the way, there are various types of jewelry and ornaments worn on the body, such as necklaces, bracelets, earrings, etc. Why did the ring come to symbolize marriage? The reason is said to be related to its shape.
The ring is an unbroken "ring" and the never-ending "circle" gives a sense of permanence, and the cycles of nature, such as the four seasons and the phases of the moon, which repeat over and over again, are also connected to the concept of a ring. The ring is also connected to the concept of a circle, which is a part of the body. The hand is also a part of the body that expresses one's inner feelings and self-assertion through gestures, making it the perfect place to wear jewelry that expresses one's intention to get married.
What are the different names for wedding rings?
By the way, do you know what is called a wedding ring and what does it stand for? Some people may not know the difference between a wedding ring and an engagement ring, and some may be new to the term "wedding ring.
Let's take a look at the various and often confusing names for rings related to marriage.
What is a wedding ring?
The "marriage" in "wedding ring" means "marriage, matrimony, married life, or matrimonial relationship," and indicates a pair of rings worn together with one's partner.
The word "marriage" is often used because of its fashionable and cute sounding image, but it is actually a Japanese word that is not used in other countries.
The English translation of the word "wedding ring" is "wedding band" in the United States and "wedding ring" in Europe. The word "wedding" means "wedding ceremony" or "wedding ring" in the U.S. and "wedding band" in Europe. "wedding ceremony", "wedding reception", "wedding dress", and "wedding cake The word "wedding" is used for words related to weddings such as "wedding ceremony," "wedding reception," "wedding dress," and "wedding cake.
Although they are called differently, wedding rings, wedding bands, and wedding rings all mean wedding rings. In jewelry stores, you can say "wedding ring" and be assured that it will be understood.
What is an engagement ring?
An engagement ring is a so-called "engagement ring," and is usually given by a man to a woman as a token of their engagement when he proposes marriage. Compared to wedding rings, engagement rings are usually more glamorous, with diamonds and other designs.
In fact, "engagement ring" is also a Japanese word, and the English word "engage" is a verb meaning "to engage in.
The correct English translation is "engagement ring. The noun "engagement" has the meaning of "engagement" in addition to "promise or contract. Although not so familiar in Japan, the term "engagement ring" can be found in some foreign brands.
What is a bridal ring?
Bridal ring" is a generic term for engagement rings, wedding rings, and other rings related to marriage. The word "bridal" means "bride's, bridegroom's, wedding" and is derived from the noun "bride. It is widely used to describe things related to marriage and weddings.
If you remember that "bridal ring = engagement ring or wedding ring," you will not be confused when you see them in jewelry stores or wedding information magazines.
Is there a specific finger to wear the wedding and engagement rings?
Many people may think that the wedding ring must be worn on the ring finger of the left hand, but in fact, there is no clear rule on which finger it should be worn. So why has it become common practice to wear it on the ring finger of the left hand?
Reasons for Wearing the Wedding Ring on the Ring Finger of the Left Hand
Earlier, we mentioned that in ancient Greece, the ring finger of the left hand was thought to be connected to the heart by a single blood vessel. It is also believed that the heart resides in the heart, which may be one reason for wearing the wedding ring on the ring finger of the left hand, which is closer to the heart, to deepen the bond with the loved one.
It is also called the "red index finger" where medicine and lipstick are applied, and it is said that the ring finger was thought to have magical powers and the ability to heal wounds and illnesses. There is an episode that people pledged their eternal love to each other by wearing wedding rings on the ring finger, which has strong power, as a proof of their love.
Another practical reason is that the ring finger, which moves softly in daily life, does not get in the way of wearing the rings. Another reason is that since most people are right-handed, there is less danger of damaging or dropping the ring on the left hand.
There are many regions and countries around the world where wedding rings are worn on the ring finger of the left hand, but there are also countries such as Germany and Austria where the ring is worn on the ring finger of the right hand or the ring is changed at the time of engagement or marriage. The fact that it varies according to culture and religion suggests that there are no clear rules regarding the finger on which the wedding or engagement ring should be worn.
What is the meaning of the rings depending on where they are worn?
Did you know that recently it has become a topic of conversation that the effect and meaning of the ring changes depending on which finger of the left or right hand it is worn on? Although there is a strong spell element, we would like to introduce this as an example of how you can enjoy wearing it.
Right hand: has a spiritual meaning, such as "to improve concentration".
Right hand thumb (thumb ring): Demonstrate leadership, stand firm in your beliefs
Right index finger (index ring): enhances concentration and energy
Middle finger of right hand (middle finger ring): dispels evil spirits (means to ward off evil spirits) and increases inspiration
Right hand ring finger (anniversary ring): stabilizes the heart and brings fulfillment in love
Pinky ring (pinky ring) on the right hand: increases attractiveness; allows you to show your true self
Left hand: has a practical meaning such as "to seize opportunities
Left thumb (thumb ring): to keep one's faith, to make one's thoughts come true
Left index finger (index ring): Increases positivity; mental stability
Left hand middle finger (middle finger ring): Increases cooperation and improves relationships
Left hand ring finger (anniversary ring): strengthens love and bonds; wishes come true
Pinky ring (pinky ring) on left hand: attracts opportunities for love
How to choose a wedding ring
You will love your wedding ring for a lifetime, but it is the first time to choose one. Here are some points to consider when choosing a wedding ring, such as whether it is to be worn every day, and how to decide on the material and design.
Should you wear it all the time? Episodes in History
Wedding rings are generally worn on a daily basis after marriage, and in many cases, even at events and business occasions where people refrain from adorning themselves with jewelry, it is acceptable to wear a wedding ring separately from other jewelry. The custom of wearing wedding rings in everyday life has been around since the Middle Ages, when it was considered a symbol of the marriage bond between two people and was not to be taken off.
In medieval Germany, there was also a belief that rings could be compared to the love between two people. It is said that if a woman removes her wedding ring, her love for her husband will cool down and the family will become discordant, and if the wedding ring spontaneously breaks, it is said to be a sign that the partner has been unfaithful to her. Thinking about the old stories about wedding rings makes them seem even more special.
Points to keep in mind when wearing it on a daily basis
Many people feel a sense of marriage and motivation when they wear their wedding rings on a daily basis. Others feel the benefit of the social trust that comes with wearing a wedding ring. However, if the rings are worn all the time, sweat and sebum from the hands will adhere to the rings, causing them to become even more dirty and dulling their luster. In such cases, wipe the ring gently with a soft cloth. When caring for the ring, also check for distortion and loose gemstones.
The jewelry store where you purchased the ring may also offer a service to polish the ring. It is recommended to check this at the time of purchase.
Regarding the choice of material for the ring.
Platinum and gold, which are precious metals, are often chosen as materials for wedding rings. In addition to being resistant to discoloration, deformation, and tarnishing, the high value of these metals makes them suitable as rings to be worn for a lifetime. Platinum, in particular, is close to the image of pure white and does not interfere with the transparent brilliance of diamonds, which is also why it has been used heavily for bridal rings in Japan. In recent years, gold has become increasingly popular, partly due to the influence of fashion.
In addition to quality as a material, color is a factor that greatly influences the design. As gold is the predominant material in some countries around the world, there is no set rule for material selection. Please choose according to your preference, assuming that you will use the ring for a long time.
About the Design
Many people choose a simple design for their wedding rings for everyday wear, with diamonds and other gorgeous gemstones on the engagement ring and a wedding band that is easy to wear and never gets old.
There are also many stores that offer engraving of initials or anniversaries. If you want a ring design that is uniquely yours, you may choose to have it custom-made. Since it will always be in your sight, try to find a wedding band that will bring you cheer and happiness when you wear it.
The more you know about wedding rings, the more you will love them
Some people may have unconsciously thought that if they got married, they would have to buy a ring, since many people wear them for reasons that they are not quite sure of. By learning more about the history of wedding rings and the meaning behind them, you can choose wedding and engagement rings more clearly.
Wedding rings are always close to you as a proof of your eternal love. Therefore, we hope that you will find something that you will be satisfied with and cherish.
