Gold wedding rings are perhaps the most commonly known of the classical or traditional styles of wedding rings. However, each country and area has their own traditional designs, motifs and styles when it comes to wedding rings. Even in modern times the traditional styles are still the most universal, after all simple and elaborate gold wedding rings find their origins a the start of the Roman Empire.
Another very traditional option for wedding rings is to for the wedding band itself to be very classic and unadorned. It is believed that this tradition is from the Jewish tradition of an exchange of an item between the groom and bride-to-be at the time of the wedding. The plain gold wedding rings symbolize purity and love as opposed to something of monetary value.
In some cultures, such as the Irish culture, special wedding rings became symbols of both friendship and marriage. The Irish claddagh ring is one example where three interlocking symbols, a heart, crown and hands are used to symbolize love, friendship and loyalty. A couple engaged wears the rings so the crown points towards the body, while a married couple has the pointed end of the heart towards the wearer’s body.
Many cultures used different types of gold or even different metals in their wedding rings. This typically occurred because of the prevalence of different metals, or to signify specific religious theme. The traditional Russian wedding ring is actually three separate yet connected bands, often in the metals of white, yellow and rose gold. The three gold colors represent the Holy Trinity and the rings symbolize their love and commitment to each other.
Traditional rings may be one of any number of metals, with or without any type of adornment or gems. Popular and classic styles of metals for wedding rings include yellow gold of 14 to 24K, white gold, platinum or sterling silver.
Classic wedding rings can also include variations on the elegant and traditional gold bands. Milgrain bridal rings are very popular for both women and men and offer a slight beading pattern round the outer edges of the band, catching and reflecting light as the ring moves.
With the new classic wedding rings the solitaire style is very much in fashion today just as it has been for hundreds of years. This style features a single diamond, often fairly substantial in size, mounted above a simple, elegant band. This style is very popular for both engagement rings with interlocking wedding rings or those that are matched with a simple gold band.
If you are considering what type of engagement ring will work with most types of wedding rings and always be in style, then a solitaire is a great option. These rings will also match very well with anniversary and eternity rings that you may decide to add to your wedding rings in years to come.