Wedding Bands

While the terms "wedding band" and "wedding ring" are typically used interchangeably, technically there is a difference! A wedding ring features diamonds or gemstones, while a wedding band typically is a more simple ring style made of metal and lacking adornment.

On the wedding day, the bride should move her engagement ring to her right hand. This is so the wedding band can be placed on the appropriate ring figure during the ceremony. Typically exchanged during the wedding ceremony following the recitement of vows, a wedding band or wedding ring is traditionally worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, the ring finger. This placement is closest to the heart. Following the ceremony, the engagement ring can be moved back to the ring finger, but the wedding band should remain closest to the heart.

The history of wedding rings can be traced back to ancient times. The Egyptians were the first to believe that the vein in the ring finger connected to the heart, which is why they decided to use that finger to hold such a sentimental adornment and why the wedding band should always be worn closest to the heart. The Greeks and Romans carried on this tradition, but by then rings had changed immensely. Betrothal rings which were previously made of leather, bone or ivory, were now being made out of metal. Iron was the most common metal type used, although gold and silver were sometimes worn by the wealthy. Although so much has changed since then, wedding rings are still worn on the ring finger located on the left hand and are given as a symbol of eternal love.

A wedding band represents the special bond between two people. While understanding the history and meaning of a wedding band is important, it’s also critical to understand what it means to you and your relationship. Once you are confident that you know what a wedding band is, you can then figure out the meaning you want its style to symbolize for your own wedding.

. Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry stores and lmfj.com is the premiere wedding ring shopping location, with more than 40 years in the fine jewelry business. Shop online with complimentary shipping or visit a store year you in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Shreveport, Louisiana; Lafayette, Louisiana; San Antonio, Texas; Jackson, Mississippi; and Albuquerque, New Mexico.