Wedding rings - their symbolism

The blessing and exchanging of wedding rings is a key part of most wedding ceremonies across all religions. The giving and receiving of rings is a physical symbol of the words spoken at the ceremony and a way to show your married status to the world.
 

Wedding rings – the never-ending circle

The exact origins of the wedding ring is unknown, although jewellery has always played a key part in the way we express ourselves and the way we distinguish ourselves from others. The symbolism of the ring is largely to do with the fact that a circle is never-ending, making it the perfect way to show the uncompromising nature of true love, and rings are exchanged by lovers and partners at different times during their relationship to show both to each other and to the wider world how important each partner is to the other. Wedding rings are a natural extension of this and, although when they are given and where they are worn may vary between cultures, the underlying symbolism remains the same.
 

Wedding rings and where to wear them

The correct finger to wear wedding rings changes depending on your religion and the country you live in. In the UK, for example, along with the USA and some other western societies, you will place your wedding ring on the third finger of your left hand. The Romans thought that this finger contained a vein that ran straight to your heart – the vena amoris – which is why it’s the perfect finger to display your wedding ring. Many other cultures and countries, however, choose to wear their wedding rings on the third finger of the right hand instead. Women often wear their wedding rings and engagement rings on the same finger, although some may choose to wear their engagement ring on a different finger in order to prevent scratching, or only to wear it on special occasions. Whether you choose to wear your engagement ring on your right hand during your wedding ceremony, or you wear it on your left hand so that you can symbolically change it for your wedding ring is largely up to you.
 

Wedding rings and the ceremony

The wedding rings are considered to be one of the most important elements of the wedding ceremony – often borne on a special cushion and the subject of much concern to those who are in charge of them during the ceremony. In most instances, the rings are blessed or prayed over before being given to each partner and although the Christian ceremony usually requires each partner to put the wedding ring on the finger of the other, some ceremonies are more involved, with the priest, other officiator or best man involved in the exchange.

The Jewellery Company has a wide range of wedding rings to suit all tastes and budgets. From plain gold bands to contemporary diamond rings, you can find your perfect wedding rings and order online. Set in tasteful ring boxes and with free UK delivery, The Jewellery Company is the perfect place to find wedding rings for your big day. For more information, browse our website, or call us on 0800 023 2283.