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 Alliance: the origins of the wedding ring

You will soon be given the ring on your finger and you are wondering about the origin of this tradition? Discover the story behind this most symbolic jewel.

Marriage alliance: the origins

The history of the alliance inevitably intersects with that of marriage and its practices.

Established in antiquity, marriage has been for millennia the institution that unites a couple before the law in order to form a family.

Already in ancient Rome, a ring was exchanged as a symbol of the commitment made by the spouses.

Intended to be seen, it informs of the civic status of the person wearing it.

Archaeological excavations have revealed the flat ring shape of the wedding ring; still characteristic today.

So far, nothing surprising. But did you know that it was first worn on the right hand and even on the thumb?

Wearing a wedding ring: what are the different practices?

Today, in France, we wear our wedding ring on the left ring finger. However, until the Middle Ages, it was on the right ring finger and even on the thumb that it was customary to wear one's wedding ring.

In some countries such as Spain (except in Catalonia), Greece, Russia, or even Hungary and Poland, it continues to be worn on the right ring finger; as well as in Germany, Norway, and Austria.

In the Netherlands, depending on your denomination, practices vary: rather on the left if you are Catholic and on the right if you are Protestant.

Traditionally, the alliance is a simple and sober jewel that is limited to a simple strong metal ring. Also, it is only recently that the female alliance is adorned with precious stones.

In recent years, the fashion has changed from a thin ring to a rather wide ring that we like to set with stones.

Whether you want an original or rather classic ring, the most popular alloys remain gold (yellow, white, pink) and platinum.

On the other hand, engraving your wedding ring is an ancestral practice.

How about a historic ring for her wedding?

Like the princesses and icons of our time, some couples prefer to opt for a vintage ring.

What better symbol indeed than to wear the ring of a great-grandmother who had a diamond wedding?

This is a common practice in the United States and the United Kingdom, where the bride often inherits the engagement or wedding ring from a relative.

According to the saying "Something new, something old, something blue, something borrowed", wearing something old at your wedding is the guarantee of happiness and longevity!

Also, find our article on how to choose your wedding rings.