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The idea of exchanging rings has been around for years. It's a beautiful way of showing your love and devotion to someone and of showing that your partner is "off the market."
One way of making the couple rings that you exchange extra special is to choose matching rings. Matching rings for couples allow you and your partner to remember the special connection you have, whether you're near or far.
If you're on the fence about buying matching couple rings, we're here to help you out. Keep reading to learn why matching rings are the best jewelry for couples!
The History of Exchanging Couple Rings
Exchanging couple rings is not a new idea. The idea of exchanging rings as a way to symbolize the commitment between a couple dates back 5,000 years!
Ancient Egypt
Way back in ancient Egypt, rings were used to symbolize the eternal union and love between a couple. The rings were made out of ivory, bone, leather, and braided hemp.
The ancient Egyptians were also the ones who initiated the trend of wearing wedding bands on the 4th finger. This is because they believed that the 'vein of love' was found in this finger and ran directly to the heart.
Ancient Rome
Of course, the ancient Egyptians weren't the only ones to use rings as a symbol of love. Ancient Romans also adopted this tradition, with the groom giving his bride an iron ring.
The tradition then developed and starting in the 3rd century grooms began gifting their brides a gold ring. This was to signify worth, perpetuity, and the strength of the couple's bond.
However, unlike ancient Egyptians who saw a couple's union as a romantic affair, Romans viewed it as a more political affair. The ring was used to symbolize that a man owned a woman, rather than the love he had for her.
15th and 17th Century
During the Middle Ages, the idea that rings were used to symbolize ownership shifted. Instead, people began to view rings as a celebratory commitment.
As the tradition changed, so did the style of rings. During this time couples began to engrave their rings with photos of the happy couple.
Once Christianity became the favored religion, couples began to engrave their ring with either a cross or Jesus Christ in between the couple. This was meant to symbolize that God was blessing their union.
The tradition later changed to feature poems or verses along the outside of the band, rather than images of the couple. Today, most engravings are hidden on the inside of the band.
World War II
The tradition of exchanging wedding rings continued well into the modern era, becoming a commonplace practice in many cultures around the world. However, the tradition took off during World War II.
Because many young men either enlisted or were drafted into the military during the war, they would give their young brides a wedding ring as a symbol of their love. This was a way that they could remain connected to their lover even when they were miles away.
Types of Couple Rings
When it comes to couple rings, there are several different types. Let's take a look at the different kinds of couples' rings that can be exchanged.
Promise Rings
Promise rings are a ring that is meant to signify a commitment between a couple, but not necessarily a commitment of marriage. In essence, promise rings tell the world that the couple plans on getting married but is not quite ready to do so.
Promise rings don't have any set guidelines around them, so they can be just about anything the couple wants. As long as the ring symbolizes the couple's love and commitment it's perfect.
Additionally, promise rings do not have to be worn on a specific finger. And, the giver doesn't need to get down on one knee to offer it to his or her partner.
Promise rings typically are less expensive than engagement rings, too. Most couples choose to spend more money on the engagement ring to make it a more special moment.
Engagement Rings
Engagement rings are most often given when asking to marry someone. They are worn on the left hand on the fourth finger, thanks to the tradition instated by the ancient Egyptians.
There are countless styles of engagement rings, although they typically feature a gold or platinum band that is set with a diamond. Some people choose to feature other natural stones and gemstones on their engagement rings to make them more special.
Since diamonds and platinum can be quite expensive, some couples opt for more affordable materials. For instance, they can choose to gift a lower carat gold ring or a silver ring instead of a pure gold ring.
On top of that, gemstones like moissanite are becoming popular alternatives to diamonds. They still look gorgeous, but they're a lot more affordable.
Wedding Rings
The next type of couple rings on the list are wedding rings. Wedding rings are also called wedding bands and are exchanged between partners during a wedding ceremony.
Wedding bands tend to be much simpler than engagement rings and do not feature gemstones or diamonds. However, they're worn on the same finger as the engagement ring and have a stacked appearance.
Wedding bands can be as simple or extravagant as a couple likes. However, they're typically styled to match the engagement ring since they will be worn together.
When choosing the wedding band, couples should remember what the ring's shape will look like. The profile of the band will change the appearance of the ring and can be a way to personalize this type of ring.
Eternity Rings
Another special type of ring that couples can exchange is an eternity ring. An eternity ring is used to mark a special moment in a couple's relationship, such as the birth of a child, an anniversary, or another big milestone.
Eternity rings symbolize ongoing love and commitment. As such, they are often given after a couple is already married as a way of renewing their vows. However, eternity rings can also be given before a couple is married.
Eternity rings are made out of a band of precious metal, usually either gold or platinum. Gemstones or diamonds are then set into the band. They can either wrap the entire distance of the band or can wrap around half of the band.
It's important to note that full eternity rings are difficult to resize. If you're unsure of your partner's ring size, you may have to pull some sneaky tricks to make sure the eternity band will fit them. Otherwise, you could run into problems if the ring doesn't fit.
If you're not able to obtain your partner's ring size through stealth, you can always opt to get a ring that's a bit small. It's easier to make diamond-encrusted rings bigger than it is to make them smaller.
Benefits of Matching Couple Rings
Whether you're ready to pop the question and want to match your partner or you simply want to show a commitment to your partner, couple rings offer plenty of benefits.
For one, these bands have a sentimental and symbolic meaning. They symbolize how two people can become one, with two separate rings being united through their matching appearance.
In addition, matching couples rings are much simpler to purchase. Rather than trying to decide on the design for two rings, you only need to pick one type of ring. This makes the purchasing decision much easier!
Finally, matching bands are very budget-friendly. Simple matching rings can cost a lot less than more extravagant bands would.
What's more, if you're purchasing matching rings for a wedding, that means you'll have extra funds for the honeymoon or wedding details. You might enjoy spending that extra money elsewhere, rather than on the rings.
How to Style Matching Rings for Couples
Now that you know what kinds of couples rings you can purchase, let's talk about how to style these rings. That way you can create matching couples rings that showcase your relationship and stand out from the crowd!
Complimentary Designs
Matching couple rings can be styled using complementary designs that come together to create a beautiful matching set.
For example, one partner may have a rose gold band while the other opts for a yellow gold band. The details and designs on the band should be similar, but do not need to be exactly the same.
One partner may have larger stones than the other or the rings may use birthstones to create complementary designs. That way, the rings match but are not identical.
Complementary designs are a great way of putting the individuality of the couple front and center. They're a great way to create unity while retaining individuality.
Matching Patterns
Another way to create matching rings is to get them engraved with matching patterns. These could be rings that feature the same engraving or that come together to form a pattern when paired.
Matching patterns are another fun way of creating unity while retaining individuality. Talk to your jeweler to see what matching patterns you could incorporate into your ring design.
Contrasting Designs
Let's not forget that opposites attract! Another way to create matching rings is to create two rings that are opposite.
For example, one ring could be white platinum with black diamonds while the other is a black ceramic infused with white diamonds. These can create nods to the similarity of the couple while also highlighting what makes each partner unique.
Identical Rings
If you want classic matching couple rings you can choose to have them designed to be the same. This means having the same bandwidth, color metal, and gemstones.
Identical rings are the most affordable type of matching couple rings. They're a great option for couples who are wanting to save a bit of money on the design and execution of their rings.
How to Choose the Perfect Couple Rings
So, you've decided to purchase couple rings. Good choice! To make your shopping trip a success, here are a few tips to help you choose the best couple rings.
Decide on the Ring Band
The first step to shopping for matching rings is to select the band. You can choose the band in several different metals, such as:
- Silver
- Titanium
- Wood
- Gold
- Platinum
- Rose gold
- White gold
Think about what type of matching rings you are going for when choosing the metal for your band. You will want to choose materials that make sense for the type of rings you and your partner select.
Select a Style
There are many different settings that you can choose for rings. These include bezel setting, solitaire setting, and eternity settings. The style you choose will depend on your preferences and the type of ring you are exchanging.
Evaluate the Gemstone
When shopping for matching rings, you'll want to evaluate the gemstone based on four C's:
- Cut: The cut of the gemstone influences how light bounces off of it and how it sparkles
- Color: The color of a gemstone should complement the band that you and your partner select
- Clarity: The clarity of the stone refers to how many imperfections are present in the gem
- Carat: The carat of the stone is the weight of the gem
Make sure that the gemstone fits both your and your partner's requirements.
Shop as a Team
While you might want to make a surprise proposal or presentation of your ring, shopping together can be a great way to select a ring, you both love. That way, you know that both you and your partner will love the couple's rings.
It's also a great way to ensure that the rings match. If only one of you selects them, you may not be able to create matching rings that capture both your personalities.
Choose the Perfect Matching Couple Rings
Whether you're selecting matching couple rings for a wedding ceremony or you're wanting a romantic anniversary present, these are a great way to show your love and affection for your partner. And, they make for a unique and personalized gift for the one you love!
Are you wanting to buy matching couple rings for your special someone? Get in touch and we'll help you find the perfect matching jewelry.