Sunday, August 9, 2009

Traditional And Classic Wedding Rings

By George C.Baycan

There are many different styles of wedding rings that have, through history, become known as the traditional styles. Some of these wedding rings are from different regions of the world, while others are more universally used in all different areas. Choosing traditional gold wedding rings is common in many cultures, and this tradition can trace its roots back to early Roman times.

One culture that traditionally has embraced the very simple gold band style of wedding rings is the Jewish religion. Traditionally the rings are seen as an item that is exchanged between the couple as a sign of their commitment to each other and to the union. The rings are intentionally plain gold bands that symbolize purity and innocence as opposed to something of a very high commercial amount.

In some cultures, such as the Irish culture, special wedding rings became symbols of both friendship and marriage. The Irish claddagh ring is one example where three interlocking symbols, a heart, crown and hands are used to symbolize love, friendship and loyalty. A couple engaged wears the rings so the crown points towards the body, while a married couple has the pointed end of the heart towards the wearer's body.

Many cultures used different types of gold or even different metals in their wedding rings. This typically occurred because of the prevalence of different metals, or to signify specific religious theme. The traditional Russian wedding ring is actually three separate yet connected bands, often in the metals of white, yellow and rose gold. The three gold colors represent the Holy Trinity and the rings symbolize their love and commitment to each other.

Throughout the world the most common metals used in wedding rings include sterling silver, platinum and white and yellow gold. Typically most yellow gold rings will be 14K to 24K gold, although there are some alternatives.

For a slight different to the traditional gold bands found in almost every culture for wedding rings and sets, Milgrain design on the band is also common. This is a small, fine bead looking pattern that runs on the upper and lower edges or the band, providing a very delicate pattern.

In newer classic designs for wedding rings, the solitaire ring has really come to the forefront. This style of ring features a large central stone, typically with an elevated setting that is both breathtaking and hard to miss. Since the ring design is simple and understated, it can match with a wide variety of both ornate and simple wedding bands.

One of the outstanding features of the solitaire ring styles is that it is so easy to match with the anniversary and eternity rings that are often added to wedding rings. With this option for matching all the different wedding rings in the bridal set, solitaire rings really have become a new classic and tradition.

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