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The ring is one of the classic and best-known forms of jewelry. In almost all cultures in the world it is used as a jewel for fingers, Hand or foot used. The well-known nose rings and earrings, however, belong to the category of needle jewelry.

Ring and rings

The ring is the ultimate classic piece of jewelry. It is known as a finger ring, but also as a toe ring. The ring is also common in the form of an earring and nose ring. Rings are almost as old as humanity itself. A ring made from the ivory of a mammoth was found in the Czech Republic. The meaning of the ring is very different. The circular shape symbolizes infinity, therefore rings are also used as wedding rings. They stand for the promise of the newly wedded couple, to remain forever connected and loyal. According to tradition, the wedding ring is worn on the right hand on the ring finger. People also show their togetherness by wearing friendship rings. However, there does not have to be a love relationship, but it is sufficient, that a deep and firm friendship is symbolized. Engagement rings represent the promise, to marry each other soon. Traditionally, engagement rings are worn on the ring finger on the left hand, usually for a whole year until the wedding itself. But rings are also popular simply as simple fashion accessories and without symbolic meaning. In doing so, they do not send out any signals about the relationship status. Traditionally, rings were mostly worn by women, but they are also becoming increasingly important for men.

The history of the rings

Already over before 21.000 Rings were worn for years. Finger rings made from the ivory of the mammoth were found in the Czech town of Pavlov. Even back then, rings were not just about jewelry, but often also about valuables. They were sometimes used as payment- or used as a medium of exchange. The so-called ring money is one of the premier means of payment and is widely known. Other jewelry currencies have also come down to us.

The originally most common materials used are stone, Wood, bone, Edelstein (mainly amber), but also iron, Bronze, many precious metals and glass. Over time, the various meanings of the rings emerged, some of which have survived in cultural history to this day.

Rings were already one of those pieces of jewelry in ancient times and in the Middle Ages, which were particularly popular with the respective upper class. Signet rings were established as a sign of dignity and power. As symbols of love and trust, they were given away at marriages in antiquity and the high Middle Ages. At the beginning of modern times got grief- and memorial rings are of increasing importance. protection- and healing rings are known from the Middle Ages. They often contained a toad stone. Many of these customs endured through the Renaissance.

The meaning as a symbol of rule is manifold. For example, they showed the hierarchy of their bearers in religious communities. We know the papal ring to this day. They were also used for ritual purposes and indicated conditions, such as mourning or a redeemed marriage vows. Furthermore, they were always a sign of individuality and self-expression.

The meaning of the respective ring is based on its artistic design, his iconography, its material and its value. The individual symbolism of the individual object is already defined with the choice of material and refined through the corresponding design.

Storytelling

In many stories, rings are used as symbols for bonds and relationships. At Magelone lovers are robbed by birds. Because of the missing rings, they lose their love. In Grimm's fairy tales, innocents are suspected of stealing. The ring of polycrates is also well known. In many stories, rings or their halves serve as symbols of recognition, for example in “The husband's return home”. Magic rings play a role in a striking number of stories: The noble Moringer, Fastrada, Grimm's German legends, Friedrich of Swabia, and many more. The most famous story is certainly J. R. R. Tolkien “Lord of the Rings”. In several fairy tales by the Brothers Grimm, the ring repeatedly plays a key role in the action. In Lessing's work “Nathan the wise” everything revolves around the ring parabola.

Rings symbolize the religious status

Consecrated virgins, who enter the monastery, wear the ring as a sign and insignia. Sisters and nuns of some orders also wear a ring after their solemn profession. This ring also symbolizes the bride, in that case the bride of Christ, who wed him.

The most famous Christian jewelry symbol is the Pope's fishing ring. Cardinals too, Abbots and bishops wear stand rings. These rings are very often provided with an amethyst, who is considered a symbol of wisdom and grace.

Artistic achievements are awarded with rings

In art- and cultural scene, many awards are given in the form of rings. The award-winning artists can, They always wear the honors so they can be seen and identify themselves with it. The Iffland Ring is very well known in this context, which was donated by the Austrian federal government. It is awarded for life. Its bearer bequeaths it in a will to what, in his opinion, is currently the most important and worthy stage artist within the German theater scene. The female counterpart to the Iffland ring is the Alma Seidler ring, which is awarded exclusively to female stage artists. The Association for the Promotion of Modern Art Goslar e.V. awards the Goslarer Kaiserring to visual artists every year in cooperation with the city of Goslar. The award is not endowed.

Rings show the profession

The archer's thumb ring had a very practical use: It protected the thumb from injury. It was worn over the second phalanx and was common practice in many armies of foot or mounted archers.

The graduate ring

In the year 1835 the first graduate rings were issued at the American Military Academy. They went to officer cadets from West Point Academy. There are now graduate rings at colleges, Widely used in high schools and universities in the United States and Canada. They are a sign of the cohesion of a year and show the solidarity of students with their university, the Alma Mater. At the same time, they serve as a visible sign of successful completion.

Rings by material

Silver rings

Many pieces of jewelry are made of silver, including bangles, Earrings and necklaces. However, rings are a very special category, which are made of silver. Most of the time, however, the silver is not used in its pure form, because it is too soft and too sensitive. Such a ring would not keep its shape for long, but scratch quickly. Due to the light inherent color of silver, it can be combined and alloyed very well with other precious metals. In this way, the material properties can be changed, that the softness is softened. A ring made of an alloyed silver material is then more resistant and also suitable for everyday use.

Rings were very popular with people as early as the Stone Age, evidencing many archaeological finds. Among other things, rings were made from mammoth bones. Among the Greeks and Egyptians, both women and men wore many rings. Even in this early period, great importance was attached to the elaborate design of the jewelry. Very unusual designs have been preserved from this period.

Silver rings often serve as friendship- or wedding rings. Women often prefer the unusual and creative designs and decorations and love playful effects and glowing stones. Men, on the other hand, tend to prefer the more massive ones, but a simpler design.

Christening rings are less well known. According to tradition, they are given away by the godparents to the person to be baptized and are intended to serve as a reminder of the baptism. In the Christian faith they are symbolic of the connection between the person being baptized and God, which should never end either. It is very popular, To decorate baptismal rings with small religious symbols and guardian angels. These are supposed to avert harm from the child. A silver ring exudes timeless elegance and can be worn on any occasion. It's neither too pompous nor too flashy. Nickel-free models for allergy sufferers are also available.

Gold rings

The traditional wedding rings are mostly rings made of gold. But other rings can also be made of gold. They have been given away and worn as jewelry for thousands of years. The oldest ring ever found is made of mammoth ivory. It is estimated that he is over 21.000 year old. In the early days, rings were made exclusively from natural materials, which could be edited well. Above all, this included bones, Wood and the relatively soft amber. With the increasing technical skill of mankind, the production of the rings was refined. For a long time, rings made of glass were fashionable, before moving on to the metal variants.

In earlier times rituals and superstition played a big role in the choice of material. The reputation clung to silver, ward off evil. Gold stood for immortality and life, which is made possible by the sun of the same color. Because gold is also very resistant to external influences, it was particularly popular. Gold rings forged from one piece were seen as the symbol of infinity.

Center of legends and stories

Especially in the Germanic world of legends, the content revolves around magical gold rings. There are also many enchanted rings in the fairy tales of the Brothers Grimm. With the Ring des Gyges, the well-known Greek philosopher Plato created a very famous piece, that is about morality and honesty. The magic ring has remained an element in many books until the modern age, Films and stories. The Ring Parable in “Nathan the wise” or the trilogy “Lord of the Ring” are well known.

There are also many stories, in which certain rings give their wearer magical powers. The insignia of power include bishop rings and gold signet rings. The forcible loss of such a ring inevitably led to it, that the official dignity was also lost. It was automatically transferred to the new wearer of the ring, or could be awarded by this to a person of his choice. Golden wedding rings, on the other hand, have been the symbol of a lasting and happy marriage since the early days.

Traditional and modern shape

The gold ring was already used in Roman antiquity, to symbolize the union of two people. At that time, however, only women wore the ring. Often this ring was forged from iron. This pawn ring indicated, that the bride had received her dowry before her wedding. Both she and her dowry were henceforth the property of the husband. The ancient rings from Roman times also already point

special engravings. They are a perfect pledge of love. Even in the early days, the names of the spouses and the date of the marriage were engraved. The tradition also comes from Roman times, to wear the gold wedding ring exclusively on the ring finger. According to the ancient Romans, a vein ran through the ring finger, that connected the finger directly to the heart. It has been referred to as a love vein.

The wedding ring also has a long tradition in the Christian and Catholic faith. The first Christian wedding, where wedding rings were used, was in the year 850 performed by Pope Nicholas the First. However, the golden wedding rings only became an integral part of Catholic customs and rites in the 13. century. Nowadays the exchange of rings and the promise of loyalty have a different meaning. Marriage is now seen as an equal relationship on an equal footing. Wedding rings are no longer just made of gold. Materials like palladium, Platinum and other precious metals are very popular. In conservative circles, however, it is still common, Trau- and to use wedding rings made exclusively of gold.

Ring according to shape and use

Alliance-Ring

A ring, its three, five or seven stones are set across the finger.

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The band ring is the classic shape of every ring. It has an evenly wide ring band. Mostly he holds a set colored gemstone, which is worked in a cabochon cut and which is lined with two brilliant-cut diamonds. The gemstones are integrated directly into the ring or are held by a rubbed-in setting.

Colored gemstones such as rubies are most commonly used to make band rings, Sapphires or emeralds used. The accompanying gemstones are mostly brilliant cut diamonds. The main feature of the band ring, however, is a wide and uniform ring band. Variants with laterally tapering ring rails are also available. Often the ring band is surrounded by a uniform and circumferential pattern.

The cabochon cut of the middle gemstone is domed at the top and flat at the bottom. However, there are also many center stones, which are faceted, and not worked in cabochon cut. The stones are attached directly in exactly matching recesses in the ring. The so-called rubbed-in version is very stable and suitable for everyday use. It also enables optimal incidence of light, which has a positive effect on the sparkle of the stone.

Band ring as a wedding ring

Very often wedding rings are chosen in the form of band rings, because there is enough space inside for the engraving and because they are easy to carry. The integrated gemstones are sparkling eye-catchers. The band rings are also very comfortable to wear. This ensures that the band ring is suitable for everyday use, that the gemstones are firmly integrated and therefore insensitive.

Cocktailring

Ladies rings are called cocktail rings, which are very conspicuous and opulent. Usually they contain a very large gemstone. They achieved great fame and popularity in the twenties of the last century, den Roaring Twenties. At the time of prohibition in the United States, many things were regulated by law, and so the pomp was demonstrated elsewhere. To defy the alcohol ban, private and illegal cocktail parties were celebrated everywhere. The ladies were always there and didn't just show off with fancy clothes, but also their penchant for luxury through the extravagant cocktail rings, to the forbidden and to waste.

Cocktail rings quickly became an outward symbol of luxury and extravagance and were used as statements. Because they are still modern today, they are now available in many different designs. The price segments also vary. Cocktail rings exist with real gemstones, with cheap glass stones or with Murano glass.

The design options for cocktail rings are almost unlimited, and the jewelry designers really let off steam with them. Some rings have animal motifs, others are decorated with flowers. Most of them shimmer in all colors. As different as they are, all cocktail rings are united in their opulence. The conspicuity is the top criterion and a clear characteristic. It is usually achieved with an oversized gemstone.

Every imaginable outfit can be upgraded with a cocktail ring, because it is a real all-rounder with an undeniable effect. So it can also be worn for any occasion. To overlook him, that is simply impossible, and also no sense of the matter. The cocktail ring is the ultimate eye-catcher and can be combined with an evening dress as well as with casual clothing. Today it is no longer a standard symbol of luxury living, since inexpensive materials are also used. Synthetic crystals and the high-priced Swarovski crystals are very popular.

Thumb ring

Jewelry rings, worn on the thumb, are both larger and wider than other rings. In most cases, they are made of stainless steel, but other materials such as silver and gold are also very popular. Thumb rings are nothing special in themselves and differ only slightly from other rings. However, rings are rarely worn on the thumb. On the one hand, this is due to the traditions, on the other hand, also simply in it, that the thumb is not so well suited as a finger for a ring. Unlike the other fingers, the thumb only has two instead of three phalanges and is significantly shorter, wider and stronger. The muscles are much more pronounced, and as soon as it becomes tense, the thumb changes its circumference considerably. This quickly makes wearing a ring uncomfortable, especially when doing physical work.

Thumb rings need to be bigger, be wider and more stable than traditional rings, so that they fit over your finger once and then sit well there. High-standing decorations are extremely impractical and therefore hardly ever appear on thumb rings. Overall, thumb rings are still one of the most exclusive and very individual pieces of jewelry and are often worn by men. Their simple look is very masculine, and the wearer emphasizes his very own masculine individuality.

Wedding rings

The wedding ring is the visible symbol of the marriage of two partners. In the year 850 after Christ he was from Pope Nicholas I.. firmly established as a sign of fidelity and permanence of marriage. In contrast to that time, an engraving is usually made on the inside of the wedding ring today. The most common engraved texts are the marriage date and the first name of the spouse. Very modern wedding rings can also have engraved memos on the outside.

Because the wedding rings have to last a lifetime, at least in theory, only the best materials are used for them. Sterling silver and high quality gold alloys are the most common materials, occasionally platinum is also used. Recently, materials such as titanium have also appeared, Ceramics, Stainless steel or even tungsten for use.

The couple's life together from the day of marriage is to be symbolized by the rings. Even in ancient times, the wedding ring was considered a sign of the marriage alliance. Egyptians and Romans wore it on the ring finger of their left hand. For them, the left side was considered the side of the heart, on which the so-called love artery should also run. In the meantime, however, the wedding ring is worn on the right hand in many Western cultures.

The ring with no beginning and no end shows the classic imagery of infinity. No other sign expresses this so clearly. Like the ring, so there should be no end to love either. The wedding ring as a piece of jewelry should ideally be worn for life and never be taken off. However, there are a number of professions, for example craft professions, in which the wearing of rings is not allowed for safety reasons. A carpenter could get stuck with the ring in a machine and lose his finger. For reasons of hygiene, a ring may not be worn in some professions, for example in hospitals and in nursing.

Eternity-Ring

Ring of infinity

The infinity ring or eternity ring is also a symbolic ring. It should capture and symbolize the eternity and infinity of a very special moment. Because the eternity ring is also a memory ring, it is also called an eternity ring (memory = memory) designated.

The eternity ring can be recognized visually, that he has a very ornate and decorated ring band. Most of the time it is set with decorative stones all around. Eternity rings are very often given on the occasion of engagement. You can find many beautiful pieces of jewelry with the theme of infinity in the JUWELLE online shop.

The stones used in eternity rings are very often diamonds. The diamond stands like no other stone for infinity and eternity. This reinforces the symbolism of the already closed ring. The beginning and the end are not recognizable, this symbol represents the eternal and infinite love of the couple.

The eternity ring is also very often used as a collecting ring. When presented as a gift, it is usually only decorated with one or three stones. Other stones are added as gifts and in turn represent special occasions and memories. That was the way it used to be, that a woman was given a new stone in the ring at the birth of each child. In times of smaller families, this tradition has been weakened somewhat, and stone offerings also take place on other occasions. Stones can be used for round birthdays, be given on wedding days and other public holidays. For these reasons, the eternity ring is often referred to as an eternity ring.

It is considered an emotionally charged piece of jewelry with a very individual character and is very memorable for its owners. The eternity ring is given as an engagement ring, after the wedding it is also very suitable as a side ring on the ring finger next to the wedding ring. The order of the rings is not fixed and is usually defined by their size.

Friendship rings

Friendship rings do not only have a material value and a decorative character, but are much more. High ideal values ​​are bound to them. By giving away or exchanging friendship rings, the importance and depth of friendship is emphasized. The rings are worn as a sign of solidarity that is visible to all people. Only a very special person wears my friendship ring. Very often there are also engraved messages or a date in the friendship rings, that is of particular importance for the two friends. This makes the friendship ring individual and unmistakable.

Here, too, the symbolism of the circle plays a very important role, because again the shape of the circle stands as a symbol for infinity, in that case for those of friendship. Wearing the friendship ring expresses an unconditional and endless bond and familiarity with the other.

The engraved rings are available in many different materials and therefore in almost every price segment. Stainless steel is used very often, a very clear visual distinction to the engagement- or to create a wedding ring. But also silver and gold, Wolfram, Titanium and even ceramics are widely used for friendship rings. They can also be set with precious stones, then mostly with stones, which also stand for the values ​​of solidarity and trust.

The symbolism of the rings

Engagement- and wedding rings stand for affection and togetherness and for the bond for life. The shape symbolizes infinity and eternity. Friendship rings, on the other hand, have a different meaning and a different symbolism. They stand entirely for themselves and for a different imagery. By wearing a friendship ring, both wearers show their special bond with the other person and demonstrate the indisputability and persistence of their friendship. Friendship is emphasized as a very high and precious good. So friendship rings are the symbol par excellence, to indicate a friendship for a lifetime. Unmarried couples can also wear friendship rings, to emphasize their connectedness.

Design of friendship rings

The friendship rings are worn on the same finger as the engagement ring. Visually, however, both forms can easily be distinguished from one another, because the friendship ring usually contains an engraving. The names of the friends are engraved, an important date in friendship, or an individually fitting saying. For women, friendship rings are usually chosen in a more elaborate design and with a decor, they are often even extravagant and glamorous. The men's rings, on the other hand, are usually kept very simple.

Giftring

The poison ring is also known from ancient times. It's a ring, in which a small container is incorporated. Usually it can be opened with a lid or a flap. A portion of poison or medicine can be stored in this container. Depending on the situation, this poison was discreetly emptied into the victim's glass. Due to its bizarre and unusual nature, the poison ring inspires people's fantasies to this day. In the age of the Renaissance it served in a very practical way to maintain power and was indispensable for many intriguers.

In ancient times, the poison ring was highly valued for its practical advantages, but not only worn by men. Nevertheless, it primarily belongs to the category of men's rings. It was also very popular during the Renaissance. Small amounts of poison could be stored inside the poison rings. At an unobserved and opportune moment, the carrier could mix the poison into the victim's drink or food.

Belonging to a certain religious community was also expressed through men's rings. In modern times, men's rings were used as mourning rings. By wearing it, memories of a deceased person were preserved.

Men's ring

Even in early human history, not only women wore jewelry and rings, but also men. Over time, men's rings have come into being with very different meanings.

Men's rings today

The symbolic meaning of the men's rings has now completely receded into the background. Today, most men's rings are used exclusively for decoration and are selected according to taste criteria. Would you like to buy a men's ring? Then you will find a very large range in the JUWELLE online shop. We carry rings made of palladium, Platinum and other precious metals. Search and find the ring, that suits you best.

Wedding rings

They are still considered to be the most important and indispensable symbol of marriage. They express, that the newly wed couple would like to do everything together from now on. Already in antiquity, the rings were firmly attached to the visual expression. Romans and Egyptians wore the ring on the ring finger of their left hand. Today most wedding rings are made of very high quality precious metals, these ensure good skin compatibility and a high level of protection against corrosion. Only the most durable materials like platinum, Silver and gold are used, because the ring should be worn for the rest of life and must be particularly robust. However, it is also allowed, To use wedding rings made of unconventional materials such as tungsten or ceramic. Since the introduction by Pope Nicholas I. around the year 850 for the infinity of love and trust.

Multiple ring

The multiple ring is also known as a triple ring or a trinity ring. Its name already makes it clear, that it consists of three individual ring bands. These are connected to each other, often also processed into one another. The triple ring traditionally bears the symbolism of love, of loyalty and friendship. This can be seen in its classic coloring. One of the rings is made of rose gold, that stands for love. Another is made of yellow gold, the symbol of loyalty, and another made of white gold, the material for friendship. Due to the high symbolism, such a multiple ring is ideal as an engagement- or wedding ring.

By the way, the first model for a triple ring was intended for a man. The draft is almost 100 Years old and was made by Louis Cartier, who designed it especially for a French writer. Here, too, the ring consisted of three movable individual rings, that are intertwined. Over time, the triple ring also became popular with women. Many variants have emerged, with and without stones. The multiple ring is always an eye-catcher and unmistakable. It is considered timeless and serves the joy of male and female wearers.

Memory-Ring

At first glance, the eternity ring hardly differs from a conventional ring, however, it has a very important meaning. It is usually made of silver or gold and decorated with a precious stone. The special thing about the eternity ring, however, is, that it can be supplemented with other gemstones on special occasions, until it is finally set with diamonds around the ring band. Memoire rings are very popular as engagement rings or as wedding rings. Each of the newly added diamonds represents an important life event. The memory ring is also known as an alliance ring or a memory ring.

Things to know about the eternity ring

In production, eternity rings are based on different techniques for setting the gemstones. Each of these techniques has its own charm and shapes the appearance of the eternity ring.

Memory-Ring – das channel setting

In the so-called channel setting, the gemstones are placed on two parallel rails. The diamonds are positioned at the same height in the row and directly behind one another.

Memory-Ring – das bar setting

With the bar setting, the diamonds are placed directly on other gemstones. These carrier gemstones sit sideways to each other. Elements made of precious metal are installed between the supporting gemstones.

Multisizer

The functionality of the multisizer can be compared to a belt. It is put around the finger, and then pulled so far, until the ring fits perfectly on the finger. The ring size can then be read on the small viewing window. The optimal fit is then achieved, if the band doesn't constrict, and if the ring can still be pushed over the knuckle of the finger without any effort. With the help of the multisizer, ring sizes can be determined perfectly

Partnerringe

With partner rings, two closely connected people show their love. The partner rings are more non-binding than engagement- or wedding rings and not with any further liabilities – such as a promise of marriage – coupled. They are a symbol of mutual affection and belonging, which does not require any church or civil blessing. In terms of their appearance, the partner rings are not subject to any conventional specifications and can be freely selected according to taste. Only the taste of the owner determines the design.

Partner rings are also often provided with individual engravings. This way they become even more unique and personal. The day to get to know each other is very often chosen for the engraving, the name of the partner is also often found. For decorative reasons, many partner rings are even engraved on the outside or decorated with personal symbols. Modern variants are made of titanium, Tungsten or ceramic and therefore appear very exclusive. Classic materials like silver, Gold and platinum are also commonly found. Many couples use the symbolism of the rings, to underline the infinity of their love and to show it clearly to the environment.

Rosary ring

The rosary ring is a finger ring, which mostly replaced the traditional rosary for practical reasons. Mostly are found in him 10 Surveys, which are used as a counting aid for prayer. It is also marked with a small cross. It is also known as a finger rosary or a soldier's rosary. The prayer form of the so-called law was prayed and counted with the rosary ring. These are ten Ave Maria and one Our Father. The classic rosary includes for laws.

Key ring

It is not used as jewelry, but as a holder for keys. One version was used in ancient times, in which various keys were forged very tightly to a finger ring.

Solitaire ring

The solitaire ring is the symbol of uniqueness among jewelry pieces. Its ring band is adorned with a single precious stone. Usually it is a larger brilliant cut diamond. The jeweler Tiffany designed a year 1886 the first solitaire ring ever. This new ring quickly replaced the engagement ring that had been common up until then, who traditionally wore a blue sapphire. The blue sapphire symbolized loyalty. Now it has been replaced by the diamond, which should represent the irreplaceability and the uniqueness of the courted. The version of this draft was also new, in which the stone was fixed with six prongs. In the meantime, many variations of this design have emerged. The setting is known today as a claw setting, because the shape of the prongs is often reminiscent of claws. But there were also numerous changes in the cut. Initially only the brilliant cut was offered, so meanwhile the baguette, the heart- and the princess cut common and widespread.

A very special ring is called a solitaire. It is the epitome of the classic engagement ring. A single gem – very often a diamond – is the most eye-catching feature of the design. It is usually emphasized by a special type of frame. The rest of the ring, on the other hand, looks very simple. This brings the diamond even more to the fore. The solitaire was also in the year 1886 from Tiffany & Co designed. The solitaire quickly became so popular, that it became the ring par excellence for marriage proposals.

The name of the solitaire ring comes from the French. “Solitaire” doesn't just mean loners, but also the only one or the only one. So the name of the ring already shows, that with him the single stone is in the foreground. The symbolism of uniqueness and irreplaceability is associated with the diamond used. The traditional prong setting with six prongs rounds off the design. In hardly any other variant is the individual stone staged so much. Its sparkle and glow can be admired from all sides.

Signet ring

Signet rings have also been known since ancient times. The signet ring contains a stamp. This can be attached to the top as a decorative ornament. With other variants, the ring itself becomes a round one (and empty) Coat of arms stamped with a meaningful contour. In Egypt, models with cylinder seals were used. Cut layer agate stones are very often used for the sealing plate.

Signet rings were among the first men's rings. They were reserved for the rulers and served a practical purpose. Documents and records were sealed with the signet ring, before they were shipped. Seals were used as security against counterfeiting. Was the signet ring kept by the hand?, so the wearer could also prevent misuse of his ring. Most of the signet rings were provided with the coat of arms of their wearer, so that the seal was clearly identifiable.

First the letter was sealed, then the signet ring was pressed into red wax, to seal the letter securely. The ancient Egyptians used similar signet rings. These mostly bore the motif of lotus blossoms or scarabs. In the Middle Ages, men's rings were very common. Its wearers believed in its protective and healing properties, especially in combat.

In addition to its decorative function, the signet ring also has a very practical one. As with a seal stamp, coats of arms and other motifs can be embossed in wax with the signet ring. This is how the sender of a letter identifies himself. Similar to a signature, seals were also used under some documents. This protected the authenticity of the document and prevented forgery. Seal coats of arms are in the possession of some institutions or dignitaries. For example, the possession of a signet ring showed its wearer to be a person of higher rank. To own a signet ring, was a great privilege.

Already with the ancient Egyptians 4.000 The signet ring was valued for years. Scarabs and other symbols typical of the country were found on the seal plates. The materials were made of copper, silver, Gold and bronze.

Two variants of the signet ring are common: It can be cast in one piece, or can be assembled from two individual parts, the plate and the bracket. A characteristic feature of the signet ring is its flat surface, which is provided with a special symbol. So that the symbol appears correctly when it is printed, it is mirrored on the plate. The so-called fishing ring of the Pope is the most valuable and famous signet ring in the world. It is made as an individual piece for each new Pope.

Taufring

The award of the baptismal ring is a very old Christian custom, which is still practiced today. The godfather gives it to the person to be baptized, so that he brings him luck. But parents and grandparents can also send baptismal rings to the new congregation- and give away to family members. In most cases, baptismal rings are made of 925 silver or 333 gold. Crosses and images of angels are very common. Sometimes they are attached to the ring in the form of small figurines via an eyelet. Is the person to be baptized still young, so is the baptismal ring on a chain, the so-called baptismal chain, presented and used during the ceremony. This creates a lasting testimony and a memory of the special experience of the baptism. Many baptismal rings are lifelong companions. It is not a coincidence, that the choice fell on a ring for the baptismal jewelry. He is the symbol of the infinity of faith and also of the received sacrament. The material value of the gift is also not to be despised.

Mourning ring or widow ring

A mourning ring or widow's ring is made of one material, which gradually dissolves through wearing. This can take place through abrasion or also through decomposition through environmental influences and sweat. Often the material also contains parts of the ashes of the dead person or other materials, to remember him, like hair. Is the ring dissolved and no longer wearable, he accompanied a significant part of the grief work.

Engagement rings and wedding rings

The wedding ring as a symbol of permanence and infinity already played a role in early antiquity. With the Romans and Egyptians, the wedding ring was worn on the left hand on the ring finger. They assumed so, that the love vein, also called vena amois, from right there to the heart. Even earlier, in ancient Rome, were engagement- and wedding rings worn only by women. The engagement ring at that time was mostly made of iron and was worn as a visible sign of commitment. At the same time, it was only handed over after the dowry had been assured and was, so to speak, a visible confirmation of receipt. In different social classes and cultures it was well into 20. Century common, that only women received a ring.

It is still common today, to wear the wedding ring on the ring finger. In most European countries it is worn on the left, in Austria and Germany, on the other hand, it has established itself, to stick the wedding ring on the right ring finger.

The wedding rings are very often engraved with symbols or inscriptions on their inside, In Germany, the name of the spouse and the date of the wedding are usually found. The inscription is from Roman rings of antiquity “You have a pledge of my love” handed down, Latin “You have no guarantee of love”.

Golden rings with the symbol of two clasped hands have been around since 2. Century before Christ known. According to Livinius has been handed down, that many gold rings were found on the battlefields in southern Italy. The only explanation for this was, that these rings must have been wedding rings.

The wedding ring attained sacred significance within the Catholic Church with the work of Pope Nicholas I at the latest. Around the year 850 around was first reported about the wedding ring, at the latest from 13. In the 19th century it was firmly established in the church ritual.

The wedding ring symbolizes the marital fidelity of the person wearing it. This is how the words belong “Wear this ring as a token of your loyalty” firmly to the wedding ritual. The wording too “Wear this ring as a token of my loyalty” and “Wear this ring as a token of our love and loyalty” at the ring handover have firmly established themselves. The mutual attachment of optically identical rings reflects the concept of marriage.

The wedding ring also plays an important role in the Jewish faith. However, it is used here in the wedding ritual and placed on the forefinger of the right hand of the bride during the wedding ceremony.

The pair of rings is the most famous symbol of marriage in the world. In representations, the rings are often plugged into one another or intertwined with one another. This gives them an additional symbolic meaning. The endless circle and two intertwined rings cannot be separated. The symbol of infinity symbolizes a long-lasting relationship. The most durable and durable materials are used to make the rings. They also symbolize durability, Connectedness and eternity of marriage. Other ring shapes symbolize other Christian symbols. The three-part ring, for example, represents the Christian Trinity.

Traditional and modern

Traditionally, two types of engagement rings are preferred. For one thing, both fiancés wear an identical ring on their left hand. In the meantime, however, the variant is preferred, where the lady receives an engagement ring as a present. Usually it is a ring, which is decorated with a precious stone. It is selected by the groom especially for the bride and then presented to her when proposing marriage. The tradition of the engagement ring comes from the USA. In Europe she was best known through movies and literature. The classic engagement ring is made of a white material, that brings out the sparkle of the diamond in a particularly beautiful way. The most popular materials are platinum, White gold and palladium. In western countries the engagement ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand. The right hand remains free for the subsequent wedding ring.

The engagement ring is the classic symbol, that makes visible, that the wedding is imminent. He testifies to the promise, that the betrothed gave themselves, to marry each other. The engagement ring is worn on the left ring finger. At the wedding, which is planned within the next year, it can be changed to the right hand as a wedding ring. The selection of the engagement ring or rings is traditionally made by the groom. They can be worn by both fiancés or just the woman. Pope Stefan I is considered to be the inventor of the engagement ring., who became known as an advocate of the indissolubility of marriage.

The ring strengthens the mutual trust promise of the two future spouses and ensures a commitment. The symbolism of infinity, which is expressed with the ring, is very suitable for this. Engagement rings are very often decorated with sapphires, whose color blue also symbolizes loyalty and reliability. The first known ring, which was set with diamonds, comes from Maximilian I.. of Habsburg, of him in the year 1477 handed over to Mary of Burgundy for engagement. Engagement rings are usually made of platinum, gold and silver. But also materials like stainless steel, Titanium and tungsten carbide are fashionable.