Top International Engagement Rings and Wedding Ring Designs

I recently finished a hub article, featuring Irish bridal jewelry, and had so much fun writing it, I decided to do another piece. This time around, I thought I'd write about unique bridal engagement rings- from around the world. As some of my loyal readers know, I love writing about wedding traditions. I think everybody needs a little luck on their side once in awhile; so do start off right, by selecting the perfect engagement ring. After all, this is what century old wedding traditions are good for.

When it comes to famous wedding jewelry, Ireland takes the cake. The Claddagh wedding ring, is one of the oldest metalwork designs still in existence today. First crafted by Richard Joyce, the Claddagh wedding ring is a symbol of love, friendship and loyalty.

In France, and in some French-speaking countries, the most common celebrated pattern for the bridal couple, is a design of three interwoven rings or individual bands. Whether the bands are interwoven or separate from one another, the meaning of the French design remains the same. They stand for the Christian virtues of love, faith and hope.

One of my favorite wedding designs, is the Turkish Puzzle ring. The story is said to be dated back to the ancient times. It is believed that the ring got its name from a Turkish nobleman who was deeply in love with his wife, and was a terribly jealous man too. He wanted a ring that would ensure her loyalty while he was off on a journey, far, far, far away. His jeweler then designed him a ring, that fell apart when removed. Turkish nobleman was given the secret solution key, and refused to give her the answer. Thus, the Turkish Puzzle ring tradition was born.

Whilst most Russian wedding rings are usually plain gold bands, their triple rolling wedding ring design, is a very desired look from yesteryear. Again, much like that of the Celtic Trinity knot of Ireland, this look too, is a Christian symbolism of the trinity, and interwoven lasting love. Usually featured in a multi-colored band, the traditional Russian wedding ring design was first worn sometime in the early nineteenth century.