By Tim O'Malley

Traditionally, a wedding ring is worn on the fourth finger (thumb included) of the left hand in many parts of the world. This is based on the belief that the Latin name "vena amoris" or "vein of love" ran directly from the heart to this finger. There are other people in parts of the world such as Germany, Chile, and Russia who wear wedding rings on the right hand.

Aside from how rings are worn, the meanings also vary based on cultural background and ethnic customs. A wedding ring is a person's outward expression of love, commitment and loyalty to their partner. Despite the background and culture of the couple, many embrace the universal values of love, faithfulness, and commitment in a marriage.

Many rings today are made with precious metals like gold or platinum and commonly inlaid with semi-precious stones or diamonds. The inside part of wedding bands are also engraved to personalize it further. Common inscriptions usually feature the partner's name and wedding date. Couples have also been found to engrave shorts lines of text from songs or poems which are special to the couple.

There are several styles found in the market for a wedding ring shopper. Flat or domed rings are the most popular. There are also puzzle rings comprised of interlocking wedding rings. Increasingly, people are choosing wedding rings that symbolically represent ideals such as love, hope and faith with rings such as “Russian” wedding rings which are composed of three fine rings woven together into one. Another is the Celtic design which incorporates the Celtic knot.

You can also choose handcrafted jewelry or jewelry that isn't found in ready made designs. While this can cost a little more because customization is needed, it can be a unique design that only that couple possesses. Another consideration in the choice of materials for a handcrafted ring is in pre-existing jewelry. If a loved one such as a relative or parent gave you a piece of gold, it can be crafted into a wedding ring as well. Having it crafted into your wedding rings is a nice way of remembering them. This can be a great way to incorporate a little something of your loved one into a memorable piece of jewelry sure to be worn for many years.

There is no rule in the book that says wedding rings need to be matching. If a couple cannot come to a consensus what kind of ring to choose for a wedding ring is to simply choose a different wedding ring, one which the person likes.

Before you decide on any wedding ring design, it is best to look around for the design you will like. This is important since a wedding ring is going to be worn for a very long time. There are many jewelry stores around and many offer great deals on wedding rings. You can also do your shopping online where everything is at your fingertips. Your next ring could be a just a click away rather than a drive to the nearest mall.

About the Author: Tim O'Malley writes for Shanore.com. Choose handcrafted Celtic jewelry from Shanore, a leading Irish Celtic jeweler offering unique designs of Claddagh rings and Celtic wedding rings. They have a large variety of designs to select from and all orders receive free FedEx shipping. Browse their designs from the comfort of your home 24/7.

Source: www.isnare.com

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