Rings are circular bands, usually made of metal, worn as ornamental jewelry on the finger, wrist, arm or other body part. They may be plain or embellished with gemstones, beads, jewels and other decorative elements. In some cultures, rings have special meanings or serve symbolic functions relating to marriage, exceptional achievement, high status or authority, membership in an organization and the like.
In general, most rings are worn by women, though men’s rings can be found in many different styles as well. In ancient Egypt, for example, the pharaohs wore rings to represent eternity, and their rings often depicted serpents swallowing their tails, representing the never-ending cycle of creation. Today, people wear rings to signify love and loyalty, friendship, commitment, and other important events.
The rings of the Egyptian pharaohs also served as amulets to protect against misfortune, such as death or a curse. During the Renaissance, Europeans adorned themselves with rings, especially in precious metals, as symbols of wealth and power. The rings of kings, queens and noblemen were often ornately engraved with elaborate designs to distinguish them from commoners. The ring, as the symbol of eternal love between two lovers, is the most iconic form of wedding ring. This modern ring is crafted from 18k white gold and diamonds, and features an open space in the center that’s set with a sapphire eye and a diamond ouroboros (“tail devourer”) motif.
A ring can be made from nearly any hard material, including wood, bone, stone and metal. Among the most commonly used metals are gold, silver and platinum, which are valued for their durability, beauty and purity. Titanium and stainless steel are highly durable, affordable options favored for their contemporary look, while palladium and tungsten have excellent strength and scratch resistance.
Regardless of the material, rings are often decorated with precious stones, beads or other decorations, and may feature engravings, engravings or designs that reflect cultural and historical associations. The earliest rings were simple and functional: iron and copper were used to symbolize a husband-wife union; later, gold became associated with wealth and royalty. Rings can be stacked and mixed, although it’s generally advisable to avoid mixing metals that are very different in density and hardness; they are more likely to scratch each other.
While wearing a ring, it’s wise to take it off when washing hands or participating in any physical activities that might expose the ring to chemicals or excessive pressure. It’s also a good idea to visit your jeweler regularly to clean and inspect the ring for damage.
The right ring can make a big difference in your life. If you’re looking to purchase one, Vogue editors have curated the best from cult brands like Mejuri, Sophie Buhai, Lie Studio and Agmes to add to your collection of timeless, trending and contemporary pieces. To ensure you get the perfect fit, select a ring with a resizable metal. Also, be sure to account for the width of the band; wider rings will fit tighter, and detailed or etched designs may alter post-resizing appearance.