- The Egyptians are credited with the first wedding rings. The Pharaohs saw them as symbols of eternity as the circle has no beginning nor end. Romans continued this tradition, but viewed the rings as a public pledge. As many marriages meant land for families, the public use of rings meant security of the bride's dowry for the husband's family. However, as courtly love grew into fashion, the rings symbolized love between the couple. Many cultures throughout the world today use rings to join a newly wedded couple.
- Women traditionally wear two rings, the engagement ring and the wedding band. During the engagement, the ring is worn on the third finger of the left hand. The vein of third finger is said to lead straight to the heart.
- After the wedding, the wedding band is worn below the engagement ring on the left hand. The wedding band is said to go on the bottom as it is closer to the heart. During the wedding, however, the engagement ring can be worn on the right hand so that the left ring finger is empty.
- Men also wear a wedding ring on the ring finger of the left hand. If a man uses a ring he already owns and wears on another finger or hand--such as the Irish Claddagh ring, it should be switched to the traditional spot during the wedding.
- Wedding rings are a symbol of marriage, but if the marriage ends some people--particularly women--continue to wear their rings. Whether out of sentimentality or love of the stone setting, if a person is divorced or widowed, they can continue to wear their rings on their right hand. Another option would be to wear the rings on a necklace.
