Celtic rings & puzzle rings (continued)
In puzzle rings (a.k.a. gimmels), bringing together multiple parts into one meaningful whole symbolized the union of the bride and groom. In the case of the hands over the heart – a type of puzzle ring called a fede ring – the image served as a token of trust.
With the puzzle ring came a new twist on the engagement tradition. One of the three portions was used by the woman as an engagement ring, while the man kept the two additional portions. At the wedding, all the pieces were unified so that the image of devotion could finally appear. These rings are still popular today in some areas of Turkey, as well as in Ireland (below).
Claddagh rings & poesy rings
A new version of the fede ring, named the Claddagh ring after a fishing hamlet where it was originally used, took root in Ireland in the 1600s. This ring – which is still common in Ireland – used the same basic image of hands and heart, with a crown over the latter. The hands symbolize togetherness, the heart symbolizes romance, and the crown symbolizes fidelity.
Poesy rings, which were made of sterling silver, started gaining traction in the 1300s and were widely used into the 1700s. These rings, named after an archaic word for poetry or verse, included inscriptions – typically either snippets of love poetry or statements of Christian faith.
Thimbles & engravings
While the trend of inscribing rings with words of devotion was in broad use in Europe, the Puritans were moving in a different direction. Believing jewelry to be worldly and sinful, they started a campaign against engagement rings in New England. Instead, thimbles were advocated for use because they were utilitarian. However, the bride typically wanted a ring, so she would cut the thimble into one once the ceremony was complete.
In the 1800s and early 1900s, engraving similar to that of the poesy rings remained popular. However, by that time pictures – such as hearts and flowers – were the decoration preferred by most couples.
In the modern era, engagement rings are still available in a wide variety of styles, allowing a groom to select a ring that he feels symbolizes the union and fits the bride’s personality. Birkat Elyon hires experienced artisans to hand-cut and hand-polish all of our stones. Our devotion to our jewelry reflects our admiration for the loving devotion of our clients.
By Kent Roberts