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The tradition of exchanging engagement rings and wedding rings is so much a part of our culture that it can make you wonder where it all started.

The earliest recorded evidence of a wedding ring was in Egypt nearly 5000 years ago, and was probably made of braided grasses or hay.  In many ancient cultures, a circle represented the continuity of love, life, family and commitment.  The tradition was adopted by the Romans, who made the wedding ring part of the binding legal contract of a marriage.

The tradition of wearing the wedding ring on the fourth finger also began with the ancient Egyptians and Romans.  They believed that there was a vein that led directly from the heart to the fourth finger.  By placing the wedding ring on this finger, there was believed to be a direct connection to the wearer’s heart.

In 860 AD, Pope Nicholas I decreed that gold must be included in the band of the ring in order to signify the groom’s ability to financially care for his wife.

During the middle ages, diamond engagement rings began to be enhanced by including sapphires or rubies in the design of the ring.  Jewelers also began to design intricate bands, incorporating designs such as hearts, hands and flowers.

It is interesting to note that although the wearing of wedding rings by women has been a tradition for thousands of years, it has only been in the last 100 years that this tradition has been adopted by men.  The widespread wearing of wedding rings by men began during World War II, when husbands began to wear wedding rings to symbolize their devotion to the wives who were waiting at home for them.  This new tradition continued during the Korean War and quickly became part of the modern culture of marriage.  In modern times, most men exchange rings with their wives during the marriage ceremony.

Today, the tradition is for couples to shop for their wedding rings together, choosing a  style that each of them love. The possibilities are truly endless today. Brides-to-be can choose from vintage engagement rings, pre-set engagement rings, solitaire diamond rings or even diamond right hand rings. For the special day of the wedding, the bride may also choose to wear pearl necklaces, diamond earrings or diamond bracelets. Even the men are getting more into accessorizing for their big wedding day. In addition to their new wedding ring, men’s watches are also becoming a popular gift from the bride to the groom

The exchange of wedding rings and jewelry in general to symbolize your mutual love and devotion is a beautiful tradition that has evolved over many thousands of years, and will continue to evolve over future generations of happy couples.