Every year, approximately 17 tons of gold is turned into wedding rings in the U.S. To move that much gold, it would take 17 pickup trucks carrying about 72 gold bars each. At $1,300 per oz., that much gold would be worth $710.5 million. That represents a lot of Wedding Rings in Sturbridge MA and the rest of the country.
Rings – Symbols of Eternity and Love
The Egyptians were the first to exchange wedding rings, almost 5,000 years ago. Those first rings weren’t gold but simply reeds twisted into rings and worn as decorations during ceremonies. More durable materials, including gold, became popular over time as lovers bought the best that they could afford. The circular shape symbolized eternity, with no beginning or end. The space in the center was considered a gateway, leading to the future. Giving a woman a ring was a vow of immortal and never-ending love, just as is true today.
Christians didn’t adopt the custom of using rings in marriage ceremonies until the 9th century. Those rings were engraved and very decorative. Eventually, the fancy rings fell out of favor with the Church and simple wedding bands were used, symbolizing the “union of hearts.”
Fourth Finger – Left Hand
Today’s left-hand ring finger was not always the case. Throughout history, people wore their rings on their thumb or any finger they chose. Even today, some cultures wear wedding rings on a finger other than the fourth finger, left hand.
* The Romans may have started the tradition of wearing a wedding band on the fourth finger of their left hand because it was believed that a vein in this finger led directly to the heart.
* Another theory is derived from early Christian marriages when the priest would ceremoniously take the ring and touch the thumb, index, and middle fingers before placing the ring on the ring finger, sanctifying the marriage.
* A practical theory proposes that the ring finger is used because gold is soft and most people are right-handed. Thus, the expensive gold ring would be safest on a seldom-used finger on the left hand.
Cormier Jewelers is proud to offer the finest wedding rings to lovers. Immortalize your love with splendid Engagement Rings that will leave her breathless, symbolic and meaningful Forever Two Rings or men’s and women’s Wedding Rings in Sturbridge MA. Nothing you buy will ever mean more to both of you.
