Tips & Traditions The Tradition of the Wedding Ring History seems to suggest that the earliest tradition of the giving of wedding rings in marriage, lies with the ancient Egyptians approximately 4000 years ago. It is most likely that the rings were made from hemp or a similar such substance, although due to rapid wear and tear, substitute materials such as bone and ivory eventually became common place. The outer circle of the wedding ring was a symbol of eternity in ancient Egypt, the circle being endless in it's form, and therefore reflective of the unity of marriage. The hole in the centre of the ring was a symbol of life's 'doorway', suggesting that in marriage we step through a sort-of 'portal' into a new life. Why is a Wedding Ring worn on the third finger? This stems from an ancient Egyptian belief that the vein that runs directly to the heart, is attached to the third finger. The ancient Greeks adopted this tradition, and so did the ancient Romans, calling the vein the 'vena amoris’ or 'vein of love'. Early European wedding rings were made from copper or brass, but the Romans were the first known culture to make wedding rings from iron. The rings were usually badly cast, with sharp jagged edges, whilst various types of precious stones would be set into these rings to signify wealth. Whilst the Romans believed that 'iron' was a symbol of strength, the problem with iron wedding rings, was that they were prone to rust, clearly not a message that they wanted to become synonymous with marriage. Gold, Silver & Gemstones It wasn't until mediaeval Europe, that wedding rings made from gold became common place. In addition, rings were decorated with gemstones of varying colours, such as rubies and sapphires. Renaissance Italy saw an increase in the popularity of highly ornate silver wedding rings, whilst the silver wedding ring also achieved acclaim amongst the French and the English in the 1600's. Wedding Ring Superstitions It was widely believed in Irish folklore, that a wedding ring had to be made of gold, otherwise bad luck would be bestowed upon the bride and groom. There is no historical basis for this myth, nor does it appear that any culture adopted the use of the giving of 'only gold' wedding rings. Another documented superstition was the belief that the wedding ring should fit perfectly. A ring 'too tight' would indicate dominance by one partner over the other, whereas a ring too loose would cause a 'parting of the ways'. Modern Western Tradition It has become tradition for wedding rings to be exchanged at the marriage ceremony as a symbol of eternity, much the same as the ancient Egyptians. The ring is traditionally worn on the third finger of the left hand. Why the third finger? There is actually no know reason why the left hand is the 'hand of choice' in modern ceremonies, although there is a theory that suggests it is to do with the hand that the groom reaches first when facing a bride at the altar.