Some history of antique wedding sets

For many people, wedding rings, also known as wedding bands, not only symbolize the marital status of the couple, but also represent the eternal love, loyalty and fidelity that the couple commits to.

The history of wedding rings can be traced back to as far as the ancient Egyptian civilization.

Earliest wedding rings were simple circular bands made from grass, reeds and even hair simply tied onto the finger. It is assumed that such rings could hardly last for more than one year.

Later, people started to craft wedding rings of ivory, leather and other more sturdy materials. Finally, metals replaced the grass and ivory rings.

Today, there are a huge array of wedding rings varies in their designs, styles and the materials they were made from.  Besides modern, contemporary wedding rings, antique wedding rings are now gaining increasing popularity among young couples.

An antique wedding ring often has a unique sense of charm and romance. An antique wedding ring is not just an old ring.

Only rings made for more than 50 years are referred to antique wedding rings, or else it can only be referred as an estate ring. 

The 50 year-old-mark is also used to classify an antique wedding ring from vintage wedding rings.

The term "vintage wedding rings" are used by jeweller to refer to rings that appears to be antique or historic. However, a vintage wedding ring is not necessarily more than 50 years old.

Often a vintage wedding ring is a replica of an antique wedding ring. For vintage wedding rings, the design and styles of the rings are often more emphasized than the history and age of the rings. The same goes with Celtic wedding rings, which often appear to be antique, but are actually paid more for their traditional and distinctive Celtic designs. 

The styles and designs of antique wedding rings vary throughout the course of history. 

Begins with Georgian rings made in the early 19^th century, there are also the Victorian, the art nouveau, Edwardian, art deco and retro styles.

It is not difficult to search for an antique wedding ring; the most direct way is to inherit them.  While not many people have the fortune to inherit such family heirloom, antique wedding rings can also be found at estate sales, jewelry auctions, pawn shop, professional jewelers and online catalogs.

For most couples, the most important thing is to choose one that reflects their personalities and styles. Though buying an antique wedding ring maybe a daunting task and requires much research, it is definitely worthwhile to spend time to do so.