Rings, knots and tokens of promise

Why a ring

Rings are circles, with no end, which people read as the image of a promise that does not stop. The Roman habit of giving a ring at betrothal and the medieval church's blessing of rings, spread through Europe and then the world with Christianity and trade. Rings are now exchanged in most countries, in civil and religious ceremonies, often on the left hand in much of Europe and on the right in Orthodox countries, Germany, India and elsewhere.

Other tokens that bind

Many cultures use something other than rings. The Hindu mangalsutra is a necklace tied round the bride's neck, and the toe rings (bichiya) mark a married woman. The Scottish and Irish handfasting ties the couple's hands with a cord. In Georgia, Orthodox couples wear crowns; in the Philippines the arras coins are handed over; in Sikh weddings the couple are linked by a scarf during the lavan. In several African and Pacific cultures, bracelets, beads or cloth are exchanged.

Metals, stones and meaning

Gold is preferred across much of Asia and the Middle East for its value and purity, and in some Islamic communities men are advised not to wear gold, so a silver or platinum ring is used. The diamond engagement ring became standard in the twentieth century partly through advertising. Other couples choose a plain band, a family ring, a sapphire or a ring made from a grandparent's gold, and some wear tattoos or bands of silicone.

How it is changing

Same-sex couples, many couples who marry later, and people who do not wish to wear jewellery have made the choice more personal. Ethical sourcing, lab-grown diamonds and recycled gold are growing choices. Many people exchange rings at the engagement and again at the wedding, or have a ring blessed at a faith service.

Rings, knots and tokens of promise around the world

Compare all 17 places

Traditions to start with

Wedding ringThe exchange and meaning of the ring.Engagement ringThe ring of promise.Claddagh ringThe Irish ring of love, loyalty and friendship.HandfastingBinding the couple's hands.Las arrasThirteen coins given by the groom.Toe ringA married woman's ring in India.Wedding cordThe wedding lasso of Mexico and Spain.

Also part of it, and being written: Mangalsutra (The Hindu marriage necklace.).

Questions people ask