The Rings We Wear
Rings are the most iconic and popular form of jewelry and have been so for a very long time. It’s easier to imagine jewelry, the adornment of the body, with rings worn on the finger. There are so many kinds of rings that we must break the subject into different categories. These styles of rings are meant as a list of possibilities but only include some types of rings since there are so many variations.
The first category of rings has to be Bridal and Commitment rings. The meaning and functionality of this category sets it apart from everything else. Bridal rings primarily include engagement rings and wedding rings. The only restriction is not much of a limitation: anything meant to be a commitment ring IS a commitment ring.
Engagement rings are typically given as a promise of marriage. They are functional and symbolic, with great sentiment and meaning attached to them. Wedding rings, likewise, are given traditionally after the marriage is official. Either or both rings are then worn for the duration of the marriage and sometimes added to with anniversary rings.
Diamond engagement rings are now standard, and most engagement rings feature some sort of precious gemstone in the design. Wedding rings are typically lower profiler and band-like, which often also have gemstones. Eternity bands are generally low profile and often have diamonds or gemstones encircling the finger.
So, inversely, any ring not meant to be a commitment ring is not one. Right-hand rings are a way to describe nonbridal designs, which cover many styles.
Dress Rings are usually thought to be more formal designs, often traditional gemstone-set rings of various flavors. Casual rings, on the other hand ( so to speak ), are less formal and can range in style and material.
Stacking Rings can sometimes function as commitment rings, but they can also be worn on any finger and be decorative adornments. Stacking rings are essentially groups of band rings combined in different configurations.
They typically have a top side and a band that integrates with a shape that remains on the top side of the ring.
Cluster rings are a distinctive style as well. Groups of stones set in patterns are featured in the cluster-style ring designs. This style is often confused with Cocktail rings, which require some sort of alcohol consumption to appreciate.
Pinky Rings are a straightforward category of rings. Location is the key to the definition. Pinky rings come and go in fashion and were once a famous symbol of manly success.
Of course, no list of rings would be complete without Toe Rings 🙂 Sadly, they are only sometimes seen in cold weather climates, as shoes tend to diminish their decorative impact.
