Where Did Toe Rings Originate?
Early usage of toe rings has been traced to the country of India. As early as the 4th century B.C., the poet Valmiki wrote the "Ramayana," a Sanskrit epic that mentions the use of a toe ring. Since at least that time, people have worn rings on their toes for both ornamental and symbolic purposes. Does this Spark an idea?
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Toe Rings in India
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Ancient records reveal toe rings to have a symbolic use in Indian culture. Women wore--and still wear them--as a symbol of marriage. At a special ceremony, the groom puts the ring on his bride's toe, and toe rings worn for this purpose are called "bichiya." Though toe rings are becoming a fashion accessory even in India, some girls continue to uphold the tradition and do not wear them outside wedlock.
Toe Rings in Western Culture
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Toe rings were introduced in the United States for no other reason than fashion. Toe rings are purely ornamental in nature when worn in the states. Young girls and women adorn their feet with all sorts of toe rings for the purpose of beauty.
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What They Are Made Of
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Toe rings are commonly made from silver, gold, beads, elastic or any other material jewelry makers can conceive. In the Hindu religion gold can only be worn above the waste as a symbol of respect, and therefore the first toe rings worn in India were made from other materials, most commonly silver.
How They Are Worn
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In India, toe rings are often sold in pairs and worn on the second toe of each foot. Men sometimes wear rings on their big toe for healing purposes and to evoke masculinity. In Western civilization, toe rings are worn wherever comfortable, though the second toe remains a common choice.
Where They Are Available
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Toe rings are worn in many cultures among all age groups throughout the world. They can be bought from jewelry providers, and the widespread use of the internet has allowed for the sale and purchase of toe rings to reach a global level.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit Image by Flickr.com, courtesy of tracey r
