The Appeal Of Wedding Rings

By Author: Fred Robinson
Total Articles: 26
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Although the ring has a long history as a symbol, it’s not very likely that the symbolism of rings is the main reason for the appeal that engagement- and wedding rings seem to have. Rings aren’t exactly nice to have on your finger, although you do get used to it. Why are we so fond of rings and why do we spend so much money on them?

Ornaments

Wearing ornamental jewelry is a human habit that has been around for thousands of years. People still distinguish themselves from others by wearing beautiful, conspicuous or expensive ornaments. These are meant to emphasize your attractiveness or status. Some ornaments are only worn by people who belong to a certain group of people and thus confirm that the person wearing them belongs to that group.

The (wedding) ring as a symbol of commitment between lovers is also a sign to others: this woman or man is taken. Nowadays this meaning of the ring is largely ignored.

A symbol of possession or a status symbol?

In spite of the fact there are still men who adhere to the thought that their wife is theirs i.e. their possession, most men ...
... are probably more aware of the fact that the investment in wedding rings expresses their commitment to invest in their relationship. A substantial offering, for which they secretly do expect something in return. There’s an obvious link between the kind of life they can offer their partner, the role expected of the partner and the price of the ring.

Forever

A wedding ring expresses your confidence in the everlasting quality of your relationship. Maybe the ring is the most widespread spiritual symbol in our western world. The infinity of a circle is a logical choice in this respect, and one with a strong religious background. In non-western religions the circle also symbolizes rebirth (reincarnation). Days, months and seasons also move forward in circles.

Price

Wedding rings are expensive. Not only because they are made out of precious metals, but also because they come in endless custom variations. Last but not least: jewellers are very aware of the fact that people go to extremes to express their love and they gratefully convert this knowledge into cash. Call it what you want, or ‘supply and demand’, wedding rings are here to stay.

In this article the wedding ring “trouwring” is placed in a broader perpective. The author provides a plausible background for the popularity of wedding rings “trouwringen”. People who buy rings are willing to pay big sums,; that keeps the jewellers in business.