The ring has been worn as a symbolic statement since the dawn of time. For some, it represents love. For others, it is a sign of honor and nobility. While this type of jewelry means different things to different people, it has remained a global tradition throughout history. But what part do men’s rings in particular play? In this presentation, we will explore the history of this esteemed accessory in regards to the male sex.
Man’s earliest interaction with rings dates back to prehistoric times. It is said that cavemen would braid blades of grass together in the shape of a circle when choosing a mate. Much later, around 2800 BC, Egyptians would tie silver or gold wires around the fingers of the departed as part of their burial rituals. Rings were also a large part of the Roman Empire. Romans typically wore them as a fashion accessory; however, the type of ring and the way it was worn bore special significance. For example, stone rings were considered masculine on the left hand but feminine on the right.
Egyptians weren’t the only ancient civilization known for their love of gold jewelry. In what we know today as Iraq, the Sumerians developed a large assortment of beautiful gold accessories around 3,000 B.C. In more recent history, gold nugget jewelers began cropping up as a result of the California gold rush in the mid1800’s. Gold nugget rings and jewelry were further popularized during the Klondike gold rush of Alaska toward the end of the 19th century.
Rings have long carried an air of mysticism around them. Gemstones like Garnet and Lapis Lazuli were believed to generate positive masculine energy, offering wearers improved libido, vitality, and focus.
Palm readers believed that each finger dictated different metaphysical properties. For instance, the ring finger represented love and beauty, while the pinky finger stood for intelligence and intuition.
Men’s rings also have a special emblematic history, especially signet rings. Usually worn by noble kings, world leaders, and members of royal families, signet rings were donned for the purpose of authenticity. These rings displayed a seal such as a family crest or coat of arms to identify one’s high standing in society.
In the 1920’s, jewelers decided to try something new by marketing engagement rings to men. They gave these rings masculine names like “The Pilot” and “The Master.” While their advertising campaigns ultimately failed in terms of driving major sales, it did usher in the era of men’s wedding bands a couple of decades later. Prior to the 1940’s, it wasn’t common for the groom to receive a ring on their wedding day.
The pinky finger (also known as “the fifth finger�) played a rather interesting role in jewelry history. Throughout the 19th and part of the 20th century, men who did not want to get married would convey this message to other women by sporting a ring on their pinky. Also during this time, pinky finger rings were associated with organized crime. Some of the most vicious members of the mafia were known to wear a ring on the fifth finger of their left hand.
Men’s rings have a come a long way since the days of cavemen and braided grass. Popular choices among today’s modern gentlemen include rings made from strong and sturdy materials such as platinum, cobalt chrome, and Damascus steel. Classic gold wedding bands also remain a favorite, while gold in quartz rings provide something distinctively unique for men with discerning taste.
Since 1990, the Fondell family has been a trusted provider in exquisite jewelry for men and women. Jewelry collectors and admirers from all over the world rely on Alaska Jewelry for selecting innovative, one-of-a-kind pieces for every occasion. Shop online at http://www.alaskajewelry.com, or call 1-800-360-5744 for more information.
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