Styles

Many different styles of ring have been popular over time, but one thing has remained constant, the perpetual loop. Although this is a simple idea the loop has been produced in a wide array of different and unique designs. A traditional Irish style of ring is the Claddagh love ring. This ring features two hands holding a heart symbolising a couples love. A similar style of ring from Italy, known as the 'ricordini', was worn by lovers on the little toe of their left foot. In ancient Greek and Roman culture the 'snake' ring was very popular. This ring looked as if a snake was wrapped around your finger several times with the head at one end, the tail at the other. A Jewish engagement ring commonly found in the 13th century was shaped like a little house. The house symbolised the future of the couple and on its roof it was inscribed with the Hebrew words for 'lucky star'.