In most of the Western world, weddings and engagements are celebrated with diamond rings – a simple, sparkling gem that represents the longevity and loyalty of love and marriage. Other conventional rings are made of precious metals, such as solid gold or platinum. But elsewhere in the world, other traditions are commemorated by unique wedding rings that hold cultural and personal significance.
A Russian wedding band has three interconnected rings that combine to form one intricate piece, each ring representing one face of the trinity. This religious jewelry is typically worn by devout Catholics who consider faith to be a central element of marriage. The three rings may all be the same color, or may be made from different precious metals for added texture and depth.
Hawaiian wedding rings will often bear the name of the wearer’s spouse engraved in an old-fashioned or elaborate font, adding a highly personal touch.
Irish weddings and betrothals often feature the traditional Claddagh ring (pronounced “clad-daw”), named after the village where it was popularized. The ring features a crown, heart, and clasped hands, symbolizing loyalty, love, and friendship, and is worn in different directions to indicate friendship, betrothal, or marriage.
Puzzle rings, also known as Turkish wedding bands, may be worn to show loyalty to an absent partner. These Asian rings have many small pieces – 4, 5, 6, or 24 odd-shaped rings – that fit together into one solid ring, but crumble apart when the ring is removed from the finger. The design looks very similar to Celtic knotwork when the ring is assembled.
In India, women traditionally wear a bichiya, or a toe ring, to show their married status. Although bichiya can be worn on any toe, married women will usually wear a large, ornate ring on the big toe of either foot (or both feet). The rings are not supposed to be made with gold, which is normally worn only above the waist by Hindus, but gold and diamond bichiya are not uncommon today.
Although most couples choose to exchange similar or identical wedding rings during the ceremony, Eastern Orthodox Christian tradition calls for the bride and groom to only exchange wedding rings earlier, upon betrothal. The groom’s ring is made of plain gold and the bride’s is made of silver, and both are blessed with holy water.
In most of the world, wedding rings are worn on the third finger of the left hand. The “ring finger” was so designated because it was believed by the Romans and Egyptians that there was a nerve or vein that passed down it and ran straight to the heart. The vena amoris, or “vein of love”, was the closest jewelry could come to putting a mark of love and devotion around the heart. In some parts of the world, the ring is worn on the right hand because it is considered more righteous.
Categories: Education, Jewelry
Widely known as “a girl’s best friend,” the diamond is among the most valuable and classically elegant gemstones on the fine jewelry market. The birthstone for those born in the month of April, the diamond’s unique sparkle can be found gracing everything from engagement rings to fashion jewelry to timeless tennis bracelets. One of the hardest and most durable materials found in nature, the diamond’s permanence makes it a fitting symbol of lifelong loyalty and devotion.
The diamond is deeply rooted in gemstone history, with a long reputation as the ultimate token of love and affection. The first diamond engagement ring was given to Mary of Burgundy by Archduke of Austria, Maximiliam I, in 1477, sparking a tradition that is upheld by most couples to this day. Diamonds are also a favorite for anniversary presents; the gemstone is the traditional symbol of the 10th, 60th, and 75th wedding anniversaries.
Diamonds were first found around 800 B.C. in India, where the gems were used to decorate devotional statues and other religious items. The gems were prized in ancient Greece and were said to embody the fire of constant love. The ability of some diamonds to glow in the dark was considered proof of their magical powers.
Ancient cultures believed that diamonds could heal the mentally ill, ward off evil, bring good luck, and inspire such virtues as courage and generosity in the wearer. Until the 15th century, only kings and rulers wore diamonds as a symbol of strength and bravery in battle. Later stories claimed that Cupid’s arrows were tipped with diamonds, and the gemstone’s link with love and romance was born. Throughout history, diamonds have served a symbol of power, love, and excellence: the French Emperor Napoleon presented his wife with a diamond necklace after the birth of their son.
The quality of a diamond is determined by grading the “four Cs” – clarity, color, cut and carat:
Clarity: The most valuable diamonds are those with perfect clarity, devoid of inclusions and blemishes.
Color: Even the slightest variations in color can account for a significant difference in the quality and value of diamonds.
Cut: Every gemstone’s appearance and brilliance can be improved or impaired based on the virtues of its cut.
Carat: The market value of diamonds is measured in carats based on their weight. One carat is equivalent to 0.2 grams.
In addition to the prized colorless variety, diamonds are also found in a wide spectrum of vibrant colors. Known as “fancy colored diamonds,” these are popular among those who value the strength and durability of a diamond but prefer a more unconventional look.
Diamonds have been mined in India, Brazil, and in South Africa since the end of the 19th century. In the 1950s, a new source of diamonds was found buried in the permafrost of Siberia, and yet another lode has been discovered in Western Canada.
At Brilliance, we offer some of the most premier gem-quality diamonds in the world. Each of our diamonds is carefully appraised and certified by master gemologists to ensure the value and longevity of your investment.
Categories: Brilliance, Diamonds, Education, Gems
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