Jewellery and watches have been sold in the Rivoli building at 41/43 King Street since 1874 however, the history of wedding rings dates back thousands of years, with evidence of ring exchanges being used in ancient civilizations as symbols of love, commitment, and union.
In ancient Egypt, rings were made of hemp, reeds, or leather and were worn on the third finger of the left hand, as it was believed to contain the “vein of love” that ran directly to the heart. This tradition was later adopted by the Romans, who also used rings made of iron, gold, or other precious metals to symbolize their unions.
In the Middle Ages, the practice of wearing wedding rings became widespread throughout Europe, and the tradition of exchanging rings during the wedding ceremony became an integral part of the marriage rite. During this time, rings were often intricately designed with religious symbols or inscriptions to symbolize the couple’s devotion to each other and their faith.
In the 21st century, wedding rings have evolved to include a variety of styles and materials, including diamonds, gold, platinum, and other precious metals. Despite these changes, the basic meaning and symbolism of wedding rings have remained the same, representing the love and commitment between partners and serving as a symbol of their union.
Overall, the history of wedding rings is rich and diverse, reflecting the changing cultural, social, and technological developments of different societies throughout the centuries.
Rivoli Jewellers specialises in engagement and wedding rings including bespoke pieces made to your specifications and budget. For further information or to arrange a consultation, please call 01534 601930 or email shop@rivolijewellers.com.