There is nothing we love more than an outfit complimented by one of our favorite accessories -- rings! Rings have been worn by various cultures throughout history and have held different meanings and purposes depending on the time period and civilization.
History of Rings as accessories
Ancient civilizations: Rings have been found in archaeological excavations of ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Mesopotamians. These early rings were often made of metals like gold, silver, or bronze, and featured gemstones or intricate designs. They were worn as symbols of wealth, power, and status.
Medieval and Renaissance periods: During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, rings continued to be worn as symbols of social status and authority. They were often made of precious metals and embellished with gemstones or engraved with intricate designs. Rings were worn by both men and women, and their styles varied depending on regional and cultural preferences.
Victorian era: In the 19th century, the Victorian era brought a shift in the meaning and symbolism of rings. Rings became popular as tokens of love and sentimentality, often exchanged as engagement or wedding rings. The use of birthstones and symbolic motifs, such as hearts or flowers, became prevalent during this period.
Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements influenced ring design. Art Nouveau rings featured natural motifs like flowers, insects, and flowing lines, while Art Deco rings embraced geometric shapes and bold, vibrant colors. These periods introduced more innovative and unconventional designs.
Modern era: In the 20th century, ring styles continued to evolve with changing fashion trends and cultural influences. Rings became more diverse in terms of materials used, including various metals, gemstones, and even non-traditional materials like plastics and glass. Personalized and symbolic rings became popular, allowing individuals to express their individuality and beliefs through their choice of ring.
Today, rings serve a wide range of purposes, including fashion, personal expression, religious symbolism, cultural traditions, and commemorating special occasions. They come in countless designs and can be made from various materials, reflecting the diversity of contemporary fashion and individual preferences.
6 Tips for Stacking Rings
Here are some tips to help you create a beautiful and balanced stack:
- Mix and match: Combine different types of gold rings, such as thin and thick bands, plain and textured bands, and rings with gemstones. This will create a more interesting and dynamic stack.
- Vary the placement: Don't stack all of your rings in the same place on your finger. Try stacking some rings closer to your knuckle and others further down your finger for a more visually appealing look.
- Play with proportions: Experiment with different ring sizes and widths to create a visually balanced stack. For example, you could start with a thin band and gradually build up to a thicker band.
- Consider your outfit: Think about the colors and style of your outfit when choosing which rings to stack. Gold rings go well with neutral colors and earthy tones, but you can also create a pop of color with gemstone rings.
- Stick to a theme: If you're unsure how to start stacking, pick a theme or a color scheme to guide your choices. For example, you could stack all simple gold bands or all rings with gemstones in shades of blue.
- Experiment: Don't be afraid to mix and match different rings until you find a combination that you love. Stacking gold rings is a creative process, and the possibilities are endless!