Bridal Jewelry Sets - The Meaning Of This Eternal Custom And Some Of Its History

Since the beginning of times, jewelry played an important role in human life. Although bridal jewelry sets are definitely a mark of modern times, wedding ornaments go back to ancient people who created them from bones, pebbles, shells, feathers and I could go on and on. Around 3500 BC people already used metals like copper, bronze and silver that were often set with gemstones. By 2000 BC gold was discovered and that marked a new era in the industry.

Jewelry was worn as a talisman or fetishes, for religious or mystical purposes and believed to have magical powers. It was also buried with people in tombs or graves to keep evil and supernatural forces away.

One of the most popular reasons for purchasing jewelry is for a bride to be. Bridal jewelry dates back to medieval times. Ancient Greeks used wedding sets in form of metal bans as a proof of marriage. The ring had to be worn on 4th finger, as it was believed that a particular vein in that finger runs into the heart. It was also believed that if the bride wore pearls on her wedding day, she would have a happy marriage.

Later on, bridal jewelry was set with colored gemstones and around the middle of the15th century diamonds became the focus for bridal settings. At those times pearls also became very popular. Until Victorian times it was common to see different inscriptions or engravings of love words or even poems inside the rings.

In 1600 a new style was introduced, possibly the pioneer of first bridal jewelry sets, in which two locked rings symbolized two hands. When the ring was closed the two hands clasped together. Today we can see many reproductions of such rings. Often you will see a third ring in the center with a heart at the top. When the two hands close, they encompass the heart.

In 17th century, the Puritans tried to eliminate wedding jewelry. However, that move was not successful and even more creative trend followed.

Clusters of diamonds set in oval or round shapes, combination of rubies and diamonds in heart shaped bridal jewelry was popular in 17th and 18th centuries. A diamond ring called, solitaire, used mainly in bridal sets, was introduced in the 19th century, when large diamonds were discovered in South Africa.

Today, we have virtually an unlimited array of bridal sets. There is no right or wrong style to what she can have. Choosing plain or elaborate? Diamond bands set with gemstones in one never-ending row called eternity is a favorable item for a bride to be. She can have solitaires or cluster rings, colored stones like ruby for love or sapphire for loyalty, you name it. And how about metals? It used to be that wedding sets were gold or platinum. Today many people choose silver, titanium, tungsten, steel or any other metal. It is up to each individual taste. After all it will be her day and the engagement ring or a whole set she desires will be with her forever.

So here we are, exploring bridal sets she may choose. But how about if the gentleman would like to surprise her, be somewhat more traditional and select the engagement ring or even the whole set for her himself? The next time, we will venture into the subject of how and what is the safest way for him to select the perfect bridal jewelry for her.