Rings

A Brief History

Although the adornment of the finger began prior to the medieval period, this is when the popularity of rings began to be most notable. Even the lower classes begin to wear rings made from cheaper metals such as copper. For officials, the wearing of rings had an executive purpose -- their signet rings were used to seal and officiate documents. Government officials, religious leaders, and even artisans and craftsmen owned insignia rings to mark their identification or goods.

Engagement rings had their beginnings in ancient Rome, when lovers would pronounce their impending engagement with betrothal finger spheres made from iron ore. The earliest known offering of diamond engagement rings occurred during the late 1400's among royalty. Today engagement rings are among the most popular types of rings, from tradational diamond styles to yellow diamonds and other modern looks.

Types of Finger Rings

Collection of rings.

There are a tremendous number of styles and types of finger rings. The majority are made from some type of metal for strength, durability, and beauty. These may be inlaid with gem stones, pearls, beads, crystals, charms, and more. The metal is often detailed to create patterns, shapes, or unique embellishments. Engraving in metal is also a common practice to show ownership or commemorate love relationships.

Other materials include glass, beads, wood, and organic materials such as bone.

Common types of rings include:

• Promise: A pre-engagement piece illustrating commitment.
• Engagement: Shows impending commitment to marriage.
• Wedding: Bands worn by both partners to signify the marital union.
• Anniversary: Given to illustrate the time a marriage or relationship has been together.
• Mother's: Given to show the love and sacrifice of a mother, often given by her children.
• Graduation/School: High school and college graduations are often sealed into memory through use of rings as memorabilia.
• Birthstone: Bands inlaid with gemstones corresponding to the person's birth month.
• Personalized: Name, initial, or monograms offer an individual statement.
• Organizations and affiliations: Sports, fraternities, sororities, clubs, and other organizations may have rings that identify members.
• Irish Claddaugh: Signifies love, loyalty, and friendship. Can be worn in different ways to signify impending marriage or marital union.
• Celebrity Rings: Inspired by the often extravagant looks of celebrities, these rings are usually imitations of highly expensive haute couture finger jewels.
• Mood Rings: Highly popularized in the 1970's and 80's, these are said to convey the mood of the wearer depending on the color of the stone or crystal.
• Spinners: Consists of two parts, a stationary outer band and a moveable inner band.
• Right Hand: Usually worn in opposition to the left-handed wedding or engagement rings to make a bold statement of individual identity.
• Puzzle: Worn by ancient royalty, these unique pieces consist of between 3 and 12 bands.

Other Types

In addition to finger rings worn traditionally on the third finger of the left hand, people now wear them on both hands and on many fingers. Pinkie rings and thumb rings are often worn as fun fashion trends. Stacked or numerous rings on one finger, or many pieces on one hand are also worn. Contemporary fashion rules encourage wearing them in different ways and expressing personal style.

Accompanying the trend of personal expression and waning away from classic jewelry standards, body jewelry has exploded onto today's contemporary jewelry scene. Nose, toe, navel, and tongue rings are all widely available in many styles.

Sizing

For fingers, jewelry is usually sized according to a set of standard millimeter measurements. These sizes range from a 5, which is 15.77 millimeters, to a size 13, which is 22.2 millimeters. Most jewelers will gladly assist you in sizing, or you can find sizing tools online.

If your sizing changes or needs adjusted, your rings can usually be altered in 2 sizes either larger or smaller by a professional jeweler.

Care and Cleaning

Always treat your rings gently. Avoid exposing them to chemicals, cleaning products, alcohol, or other solvents. Some stones and materials are also extremely porous and should avoid exposure to water as well. A good precaution is to remove your rings when working with any kind of chemical, completing heavy chores, or doing household cleaning.

Many types can be cleaned for by gently wiping or polishing with a soft cloth. It's best to always check and follow the manufacturer's or designer's instructions for care and cleaning.