Exchanging Rings Do You Have an Engagement Ring Too
Exchanging Rings Do You Have an Engagement Ring Too
Last autumn, I attended my cousin Jenn’s wedding. As she and her soon-to-be-husband Rick exchanged vows under the ancient oak tree in her parents’ backyard, the time came for them to exchange rings. Seeing Rick slide a delicate gold band onto Jenn’s finger, I remembered the conversation my friend Molly and I had about engagement rings just the previous week.
Molly was in the midst of planning her own wedding and was fretting about whether a second ring was necessary. Her engagement ring was a classic solitaire diamond on a platinum band, beautiful in its simplicity. But she was torn about adding a traditional wedding band. It’s a discussion that seems to crop up in many circles these days.
Historically, the tradition of wearing both an engagement ring and a wedding band can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where a ring symbolized eternity and was often worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. Why? Because the belief was in a vein, the "vena amoris," that ran directly from this finger to the heart. It’s a romantic concept, but not based in any medical fact. Still, the tradition persists, subtly evolving through the centuries.
In today’s world, the choice of whether to wear two rings, or even one, often reflects personal style and values rather than just tradition. For some, a single ring suffices, encapsulating both engagement and marriage in one elegant piece. This minimalist approach can emphasize the sentiment behind the ring rather than its monetary value or adherence to tradition.
During our chat, Molly mused that a single ring might be a more practical option. As a hands-on kindergarten teacher, she worried about damaging an expensive piece of jewelry during finger-painting sessions or playground duty. Yet, she still desired something meaningful and symbolic. We jokingly suggested she could opt for a tattoo ring—painful, perhaps, but definitely durable!
Currently, another compelling trend is to opt for stacking rings. They offer versatile style and the opportunity to create a unique look. Couples can start with a simple band and later add more rings to mark anniversaries or life milestones, like the birth of a child.
Ultimately, the decision centers around what feels right for you as a couple. Should the rings match, complement, or contrast? Should they hold a glimmer of tradition or break new ground? As I watched Jenn’s face light up with happiness as she admired her two rings now adorning her finger, I realized that, for her, every part of the day was meaningful because the choices were truly her own.
So, whether you go for one, two, or even no rings at all, the essence remains the same: a symbol of love, commitment, and the personal journey shared with someone you cherish deeply. And who knows, maybe next time you spot a wedding ceremony under an old oak tree, you might be inspired on what rings true for you.
