Engagement Rings: A Brief and Shiny Historical Detour!
To understand the bling-route better, let’s take a little detour down history lane, shall we? The concept of engagement rings isn’t uniquely British. Oh no, dear reader! Our ancestors, the Romans, kindled this tradition, where a ring was given as a public pledge that a contract of marriage would be honoured. Fast forward to 1477, and the first diamond engagement ring was commissioned by the Archduke Maximillian of Austria for his betrothed, Mary of Burgundy. Talk about setting high standards, eh?
Back in Blighty, the British Royals haven’t been strangers to flaunting some serious ice. The engagement ring is often a sparkling centrepiece before marriage, illustrating promises, and, let’s be candid – offering some fabulous finger candy! One cannot easily forget Lady Diana’s sapphire stunner, can they? Or more recently, the beautiful, minimalist design chosen by Meghan Markle (More Royal Bling Here).
Back in Blighty, the British Royals haven’t been strangers to flaunting some serious ice. The engagement ring is often a sparkling centrepiece before marriage, illustrating promises, and, let’s be candid – offering some fabulous finger candy! One cannot easily forget Lady Diana’s sapphire stunner, can they? Or more recently, the beautiful, minimalist design chosen by Meghan Markle (More Royal Bling Here).
Wedding Rings: A Circle of Endless Love (and Perhaps Patience?)
Let’s shimmy from engagement to the wedding avenue. The wedding ring, unlike its flashier cousin, is often more subtle and traditionally forged in a precious metal without a diamond taking centre stage. The continuous circle symbolises unending love and commitment. Aww, sweet, right? But hang on to your fascinators, folks, because in the UK, it's not only the brides who are slipping on a wedding band. Yes, the British Grooms are also in on the ring-wearing action!
Now, while the tradition of brides wearing wedding rings has been traced back to Ancient Egypt, the practice of both partners wearing a wedding band in the UK became widely popular post-WW2. So, the male population in the matrimonial journey also started showcasing visible signs of their off-the-market status!
Now, while the tradition of brides wearing wedding rings has been traced back to Ancient Egypt, the practice of both partners wearing a wedding band in the UK became widely popular post-WW2. So, the male population in the matrimonial journey also started showcasing visible signs of their off-the-market status!
The Glittering Duo Together: A British Norm?
The real sparkle unfolds when the engagement ring is accompanied by its subtle mate, the wedding ring. In the UK, it is customary for both to be worn together post-wedding, with the wedding band traditionally worn “closest to the heart”, i.e., below the engagement ring.
It's also common in the UK to have your wedding band and engagement ring soldered together. Not only does this keep them neatly aligned, but it’s also a poignant metaphor for the permanent union you’ve entered into. If you're prone to seeing romance and symbolism in every glittering facet of life, you might find this tradition rings (pun very much intended!) particularly true for you.
It's also common in the UK to have your wedding band and engagement ring soldered together. Not only does this keep them neatly aligned, but it’s also a poignant metaphor for the permanent union you’ve entered into. If you're prone to seeing romance and symbolism in every glittering facet of life, you might find this tradition rings (pun very much intended!) particularly true for you.
Bespoke Rings for the Win!
Oh, and for those who seek a unique charm, crafting a bespoke engagement or wedding ring is increasingly becoming a popular choice. The desire to encapsulate personal stories, special moments, and unique traits into these precious metals and stones is something many Brits are opting for (Create Your Own Here).
To Conclude Our Sparkling Adventure...
So, is it customary to have both an engagement ring and a wedding ring in the UK? A resounding yes! Whether it’s to embrace tradition, make a fashion statement, or simply to bask in the joyful glimmer that these rings bring, the practice of adorning both is well embedded in the UK’s matrimonial scene.
As we wrap up our glittery excursion through the land of love, engagements, and weddings in the UK, remember: whether it’s choosing the perfect engagement rock or selecting those timeless wedding bands, the journey is as delightful and exciting as the milestones they symbolise.
Do share with us your thoughts, sparkling stories, or if you fancy, your favourite British ring-wearing icon! Let's continue to traverse through these enchanting tales of love, commitment, and splendid jewellery together.
As we wrap up our glittery excursion through the land of love, engagements, and weddings in the UK, remember: whether it’s choosing the perfect engagement rock or selecting those timeless wedding bands, the journey is as delightful and exciting as the milestones they symbolise.
Do share with us your thoughts, sparkling stories, or if you fancy, your favourite British ring-wearing icon! Let's continue to traverse through these enchanting tales of love, commitment, and splendid jewellery together.