The wearing of rings gained popularity in the medieval period. People chose to wear rings regardless of whether they were rich or not. The metals used most often for making rings were silver, copper, gold and iron. The financial status of the person wearing the ring was often identified by the metal which the ring was made from.
Faceted jewels started to make an appearance in rings about the 1500s. Some rings are usually associated with particular cultures that wore them. For example Native Americans are often associated with jewellery made from silver and turquoise. Early Christians used the Icthus, the ancient Greek symbol of the fish.
Rings such as wedding rings and engagement rings symbolize commitment. Although modern jewelry has some other ways of symbolizing commitment such as friendship bracelet patterns, rings continue to be very popular.
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These days, many different materials are used to make rings. Materials which include gold, silver, platinum, copper and even plastic, ceramics or wood are used to make them. Ceramic materials can be used as well.
Rings can often be plain in design or can have gemstones, for example birthstone rings. Each month has a birthstone with a different meaning:
January
The Garnet is January's birthstone and represents faith and truth.
February
It is said that the Amethyst, February's birthstone, aids soldiers while in battle, hunters with their hunting, to stop the owner having evil thoughts and to help them to succeed in business.
March
The Aquamarine is the birthstone for March. It is said that sailors use it to prevent seasickness, keep them safe, and to gain foresight and courage.
April
Diamond is April's birthstone and symbolizes strength, invincibility and courage.
May
Emerald is May's birthstone and is believed to improve the eyesight and also sharpen the mind of the wearer. Travellers used emeralds as protection against the hazards of long trips .
June
The Pearl is the birthstone of June and pearls are believed to give the wearer the power of luck, protection and love.
July
The Ruby's colour is associated with protection, physical energy, courage, strength, passion and health.
August
The birthstone of August is the Peridot, which is believed to bring the wearer success, peace and good luck.
September
The Sapphire is believed to bring inner peace and spiritual enlightenment.
October
Opal is the October birthstone and it is said to possess healing powers which aid faithfulness, inner beauty and eyesight.
November
Topaz is said to heal both physical and mental illness and to prevent death.
December
December's birthstone is the Turqoise, and it was thought to attract money, love and success.
