The Symbolism of an Engagement Ring

It’s a common sense fact that engagement rings are meant to symbolize the love and commitment between two people who are in love, but even something as innocuous-seeming as the shape or overall design of the ring can be symbolic.

Choosing an engagement ring is a very personal and special moment, so the overall symbolism of the design can definitely be a factor when choosing the perfect engagement ring to seal the deal.

The Overall Symbolism of an Engagement Ring

Engagement rings can be traced back to the ancient Romans and Egyptians. In fact, the Romans were the first culture thought to use the practice of placing an engagement or wedding band on the fourth finger of the left hand, where it would be closest to the heart. This tradition still carries on to this day, just as the double wedding ring ceremony.

For example, brides were usually the only party to be given wedding rings on their big day, but World War II changed all that and began the tradition of presenting a ring to both the bride and groom. Today, nearly all marriages are commemorated with a double ring ceremony.

Believe it or not, the circle is actually heavy with symbolism as well. The circle (which is essentially your engagement ring; a circle of metal) actually symbolizes eternity and wholeness because they have no beginning or end. This symbolism is a beautiful way to think of an impending marriage; a beautiful union that will see no end, and will be held together through eternity and beyond.

What About Personal Symbolism?

An engagement ring is rife with symbolism overall, but how does personal symbolism fit into the equation?

If you use an heirloom engagement ring, you are choosing a ring that has likely been passed down through the generations until it gets to you. This is very symbolic, and is a beautiful tradition to continue. Celtic engagement rings or other rings designed for a specific culture or group are also heavily symbolic, especially if they are the group or culture you and your partner identify with.

Adding a special word, phrase or date to the band of an engagement ring via engraving is also a great way to personalize the ring and make it special and unique to you. Incorporating birthstones into the design is also a beautiful sentiment, and is a unique alternative to traditional diamonds.

Choosing a three stone engagement ring, which represents the past, present and future of a relationship, is an obvious symbolic choice as well.

Engagement rings have been symbolic of love and fidelity since ancient times, but they can easily take on a more personal meaning as well. Whether you incorporate your birthstones, use an heirloom or antique ring or engrave a special sentiment on the band, engagement rings can be as meaningful as you choose.

No matter what type of symbolism you incorporate into the design of your engagement ring, it will undoubtedly be a cherished possession and all the more special because it is personal to you and the person you will spend the rest of your life with.

This entry was posted on Thursday, June 18th, 2009 at 6:29 am and is filed under Ring Musings. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Both comments and pings are currently closed.