Eternity rings are among the most stylish pieces of jewelry on the market. These shimmering symbols of eternal love rose to prominence in the latter half of the 20th century and are coveted by women across the globe. The ring’s storied history, distinct design, and symbolism adds to their allure.
History
Eternity rings date back more than 4,000 years, when they first appeared during the height of Egyptian civilization. Egyptians originally used rings with interlocking bands to symbolize eternal life and love, not to mark any particular milestone. The first Eternity rings were made from metals and often studded with stones. Their interlocking shape was thought to mimic the ouroboros, an ancient symbol of the serpent eating its own tail. The ouroboros symbolizes infinity, thus becoming the perfect representation of everlasting love.
Modern Uses
Unlike their earlier uses, eternity rings became popular anniversary gifts during the 1960s. The rings were given from husbands to wives as a symbol of their undying love and devotion. The rings also were a representation of the time the couple had spent together.
Today, eternity rings have become a popular choice for wedding and engagement rings in addition to serving as anniversary gifts. Celebrities such as “Dancing with the Stars” host Brooke Burke illustrate the ring’s versatility by wearing it as a standalone piece in lieu of a traditional bridal set.
Design
Eternity rings are typically made from precious metals such as platinum, white gold or yellow gold and contain a continuous line of identical-cut gemstones. Most eternity rings are studded with diamonds that seem to be suspended above the band. However, some rings pair diamonds with alternating colored gemstones such as rubies, sapphires or black diamonds. The rings are offered in a variety of settings, including channel set, pave and micro-pave set, and bar set. There are also two distinct types: half eternity rings and full eternity rings. Half eternity rings feature stones on the top half of the band, while full eternity rings are completely encircled in gemstones.
So if you are in the market for a shimmering anniversary gift, or a one-of-a-kind sparkling wedding band for your bride-to-be, the love of your life will cherish her eternity ring forever.