Rings

History of Rings

This timeline illustrates how rings have changed over time, from their original use for social status and authentication to
their current variety of uses and meanings.

• Ancient Egypt:
  Tombs contain the oldest rings that have been discovered. Signet or seal rings are the main tools used in authentication. The seal, which is engraved on the bezel, bears the owner's name and title in hieroglyphic characters.
• Ancient Greece:
  Rings were primarily used as ornaments. Individual cabochon stones, such as garnets and carnelians, were placed in bezels.
• Early in the Roman Republic:
  Only a small class of people were allowed to wear gold rings; the majority of rings were made of iron. Gold rings were acceptable for patricians and high officials to wear.
• From the Third Century BC to the Third Century AD:
  The Roman Empire permitted gold rings for knights and almost any other free individual. The tradition of wearing betrothal rings as a symbol of a marriage vow.
• Middle Ages in Europe:
  Signet rings play a major role in legal, business, and religious transactions. Bishops received episcopal rings from the Roman Catholic Church, while cardinals received papal rings from popes. A variety of rings surfaced, such as occult, memorial, posy, and poison rings.
• 19th Century:
  Traditional categorizations of rings disintegrated. Various rings are influenced by historical designs. Modern sets with standard-sized diamonds or precious stones and are constructed of gold or silver rings. Worn as jewelry or as representations of faithfulness in marriage and engagement.