Diamonds are forever and relatively speaking, they have been around forever! The diamonds that are set into your beautiful diamond ring are in fact the oldest thing that you will ever own. The “youngest” of these precious stones that you could be displaying on your finger would be approximately 50 million years old. This age range for diamonds could be as old as 2.5 billion years, now that’s an antique!
Diamonds through out their lifetime have carried several different and ornate histories. They also carry numerous myths and legends that are associated with history. Some outlandish myths about diamonds range from the stone having the ability to perform magic, have healing powers, grant protection for the bearer of the stone and in some instances induce poisoning. Outlandish and remarkable become an understatement for the myths that surround this stone. Diamond, the name itself comes from 12th Century Greek meaning invincible or unconquerable for its hardness qualities.
The myths and legendary tales of diamonds began as far back as Roman times. Those stories were recorded in Roman literature. Stories suggest that Romans believed that diamonds were in fact tears from the gods and splinters of falling stars. Myths of this beautiful stone do not end there in Roman literature. The Romans believed that Cupid’s faithful arrows were in fact tipped in diamonds and thus possessed the ability to have magical powers. Diamonds also captured the attention of famous philosopher Plato. He wrote of these gems as living organisms, which possessed celestial beings. Romans loved to possess diamonds due to the fact that they believed the gem had broad magical powers. Diamonds, amongst other powers were believed to cure life’s troubles and bring about power, strength, invincibility, bravery and courage to those lucky enough to behold the beautiful gem.
In mid-evil times, kings lead their men into battle donning a breast plate that was to be covered in diamonds along with other gems stones which each had a unique magical power. Diamonds were important to this plate because they believed diamonds gave magical powers far beyond meaning and power of man. Therefore, it was essential for kings above anyone else to be donned in diamonds.
Diamonds were held in particular high esteem from 1214 to 1270 in France, when they were especially designated for use by the king only. King Louis IX of France established a law that would grant the use of diamonds for the king. This fact just indicates the rarity of diamonds of the time, and their overall worth through out time. During this time, diamonds were used for representing honor, strength, invincibility and courage of the leader.
During the 14th century, a small number of diamonds began to be seen in European regalia and jewelry designs. Diamonds, at this time, were seen as a sign of love and devotion. Many of the designs used pearls as an accent gem along with the diamond. Although the popularity of diamonds was becoming more mainstream, noble and large diamonds were still privileged to Royals and houses of the affluent.
Since the beginning of diamond’s popularity, they were said to contain numerous characteristics and were able to grant the beholder numerous qualities that they may not have possessed without the stone. Some virtues that were instilled within the stone were that diamonds are supposed to impart virtue upon its holder, and bring a generous heart to the owner. Diamonds were also said to bring their owners luck and success. Diamonds through out their history were talisman, to ward off the potential of poisoning, and overall protection for the traveler.
Overall the gem of diamond has a full and illustrious history of myths and legendary tales from its inception and its use in cultures. There is an immense amount of knowledge and characteristics that surround this beautiful stone. When purchasing diamonds be sure to keep in mind all the myths, legends, and folklore that surrounds this bright, shiny, beautiful gem!
Are you currently looking for the perfect band with the perfect fit? Wondering how to create the most comfort in wedding bands? Wondering why ‘comfort fit’ is comfort fit and different from all other bands out there? Look no further, we have all the answers to those questions, right here!
Comfort bands, by definition, are exactly what their name states, ‘comfort fit’. The rings are made with rounded inside edges, in order to slide on the finger better and maintain overall comfort. The style is popular among men and women who are looking for a little added comfort for their precious band. Another style is heavy comfort fit bands. They are thicker and more rounded comfort fit bands. It also gives the band more ‘heft’ and weight. It gives the individual wearing the band security that the band is there, yet the comfort in which they desire. This is becoming a popular choice among everyone who chooses to wear a wedding band. Comparing the comfort fit and heavy comfort fit with the non-comfort fit bands, there is a difference. Non-comfort fit bands have a straight edge and not rounded. Although, still stylish and wearable, it does not have the same comfort level as the comfort fit bands.
Comfort fit bands are preferred over non-comfort fit because they provide an ease to wearing rings. The edges are rounded and do not pinch the skin. It slides on easily for all day wear. With this feature, comfort fit wedding bands are the perfect choice for individuals who do not wear jewelry on a daily basis or do not wear any jewelry. Comfort fit bands are recommended to these individuals. It will add comfort to all day wear of the band.
WeddingBands.com offers heavy comfort fit bands in a range of styles. There are plain wedding rings, classic wedding rings, contemporary wedding rings and handmade wedding rings with the comfort fit feature.
Whether you’re looking for a comfort fit, heavy comfort fit or even a non-comfort fit band, WeddingBands.com has the perfect solution for you! Everything from Classic to Contemporary, you will be sure to find the perfect band for you. Make your big day even more special with the perfect and comfortable wedding band!
It’s a tale as old as time, and you are ready to make that walk down the aisle to claim your love forever. But, ever stop to wonder what makes this tradition so special? Or why the exchanging of rings has become the most popular tradition, holding thousands of years of history and tales behind it? We all know the basic traditions of wearing a wedding band. It goes on the left hand’s ring finger, and it tells the world that you are married. For men, it usually is a simple metal band and for women it’s a band that can either closely match their engagement ring, or can be a decorative band that can be worn with or without the engagement ring. So besides that, where does the ‘tradition’ come from in this very much traditional event?
Not that surprisingly, it definitely can depend on your culture, and your cultural background of your ceremony that would determine the traditions behind your adornment of the wedding bands. Many cultures have developed their own traditions surrounding the ceremony itself, as well as the gifting of the rings to each the bride and groom. Most of the traditions that occur today in ceremonies and gifting rings tie back to the original European culture. According to some European based cultures and customs, the wedding ring is the final gift in a series between the lucky couple, which usually begins with the engagement ring. Furthering European traditions, it has become a custom for both men and women to wear wedding bands. This tradition has only become popular in the 20th century, as it were only women who usually wore the bands prior in history. In Eastern Orthodox traditions and cultures, the exchange of these rings don’t happen during the wedding service. Rather, they are exchanged between the couple at the betrothal, or the formal engagement of the couple.
One ancient tradition states that the ring shall be worn on the third finger of the left hand, for both men and women, participating in the tradition. According to the Ancients, the importance of this finger stems from their belief that it was the holder of the ‘vena amoris’ also known as the vein of love. Therefore, by encircling the finger, and thus the vein, the eternal love of the couple will reach directly to the heart of the beholder and the love of the couple will encircle the heart as a whole. This has become a popular tradition because it shows the eternal and everlasting devotion and love that the couple has for one another. It then becomes a symbolic reference to their love and becomes a symbol for the rest of the world that their heart belongs to someone.
Other traditions believe that the wedding ring should be worn on the third finger of the right hand, instead of the same finger on the left hand. Some legends have suggested that the left hand carries negative connotations; therefore it should not be the holder of a precious object such as a wedding ring. Since Ancient Rome, traditionally the right hand is raised when taking pledges or oaths, signifying the individual’s undying pledge to uphold their commitment. Due to this ideal, the right hand has become a very popular choice among couples upon their marriage ceremony.
The traditions and significance of the bands itself, doesn’t just end with the couple becoming engaged, they carry an immense presence in the ceremony as well. The wedding bands are usually held secure by a best man, or best woman for the ceremony, until it is time for the couple to exchange the rings. The gifting of the rings carries a significant meaning, not only for the couple but in significance of the wedding ceremony as a whole. Once it is time for the exchanging of the rings in the ceremony, each person exchanges the ring as an eternal symbol of love and commitment to one another. The circle that the ring forms signifies not a beginning, nor an end, rather a lifetime of devotion to one another, and the commitment of your love forever.
Not only did the rings symbolize eternal love, but it also symbolized a trade. Exchanging the rings was also done as a symbol of exchanging valuables. Before, marriages were connected to the exchanging of valuables as it was customary of the time to trade items of value, for example land, or money, between the families that were being joined through the marriage. A contract between the two families was being formed with the marriage. Over time, such traditions have diminished, and marrying your sweetheart for love has long since replaced the traditions of marrying for land or monetary ties. Therefore, the rings in which one is wed in, have carried an even greater importance than ever before. The ring now represents the love, commitment, devotion and trust that encircle the couple for a lifetime. That is why choosing the ‘perfect’ rings have become even more an essential part of the planning process. Each couple is different, with different standards, ideas of what is their ‘perfect’ band. After all, it will be worn for a lifetime! Once you and your loved one have selected the perfect bands, now the only question that remains is which hand carries the most significance to bear the band? After all, it will be there for a lifetime, so what is the ‘right’ answer? Just like many of the traditions observed by individuals, it depends on your personal beliefs and traditions. Whether it is ancient beliefs that still hold true or possibly other sacred values that hold personal meaning, the tradition should hold a special significance to the couple. It is completely up to the individual or the individual couple and which tradition they choose to follow to decide where the ring will be worn.
Which ever finger, or ring style, or type of metal you and your beloved decide upon for your personal ceremony, the symbol of the wedding band remains the same throughout, as a symbol of eternal love and devotion between the pair. It is a symbolic representation to the rest of the world, your eternal commitment to one another. Ultimately this becomes the most customizable and special event for the couple alone to share with each other. Search for your perfect band at WeddingBands.com! Browse the wide selection of Classic, Contemporary, and Diamond bands! Looking for rings that you both will enjoy and have more of a unique look rather than a traditional one? Check out the Royal Duet line, exclusively at WeddingBands.com Make your day and the rest of your life special and check out the extensive selection from WeddingBands.com!
What is the newest precious metal to be hitting the jewelry scene? Well, it’s palladium, of course! It is the silver-white metal that is taking jewelry, and especially wedding bands and rings by storm! So, you’re probably asking, what is this metal? Why is it becoming so popular? How does it stack up against traditional favorites, like gold and platinum? Well, here are some quick facts about this budding precious metal:
First, this new trend in metals was discovered in 1803 by British chemist, William Hyde Wollaston. Wollaston named his newest
Palladium Anniversary Band
discovery after the asteroid, Pallas, which was discovered just two years prior to Palladium. Since then, Palladium has become apart of the platinum metals, containing similar characteristics to the ever popular Platinum. One subtle difference from the rest of the platinum metals, however is that Palladium does have the lowest density as well as the lowest melting point. Just like platinum, this metal stays that soft, silvery white color, and does not tarnish! Thus, with qualities like these, it is further adding to its immensely growing popularity.
Palladium is a great metal for jewelry simply because it has a vast majority of similar characteristics to platinum, yet it is a fraction of the overall cost! At some points in Palladium’s ever growing history, it was even less expensive than gold, thus further fueling its rise to success. After all, Palladium was put into production after the US Military declared platinum a strategic metal, and was only for government use. Ever since then, Palladium has grown in immense popularity. Palladium offers customers similar qualities that make platinum popular, but at different price points in order to satisfy a wider variety of customers. That is not the only reason for Palladium’s sudden rise in jewelry usage, it is also the fact that this white metal does not need to be rhodium plated, and does not tarnish, much like platinum! Palladium also makes for a great metal for jewelry usage because it is a malleable metal, as it is not as hard as platinum, which is also easy to finish and polish into a beautiful piece. Palladium is sold as Palladium 950, meaning that it is 95% Palladium and 5% Ruthenium, giving Palladium that characteristic to look much like platinum. Palladium also has a lighter feel to the metal, versus its platinum counterpart. This unique characteristic also adds value to Palladium and adding to the growing trend of using Palladium in jewelry. Another plus to Palladium is the fact that it is a hypoallergenic metal, thus making it a perfect combination for everyone!
So, after all these amazing qualities, you’ve got to be wondering, where does this miraculous material originate from? Well, there are two answers to where you can find the metal of Palladium. The first of which, is the form of the metal that can be found naturally. It can be found naturally in sections of the Ural Mountains, Australia, Ethiopia, and in both North and South America. In addition to being found in parts naturally, this metal is also formed commercially by combining it with nickel-copper deposits.
Palladium, fashionable and affordable? Quite essentially the perfect combination! Check out WeddingBands.com for a wide selection of Palladium rings! Including such styles, Classical, Contemporary and Diamond rings! For more information on Palladium and its uses don’t forget to check out Palladium in the Precious Metals section, also at WeddingBands.com!
Ruby Anniversary Band
There is no stone that is quite as popular, or quite as legendary as the gleaming red beauty known as Ruby. Due to its immense popularity over centuries, the infinitely valuable Ruby has many tales, traditions and mythical sagas that still hold true to this day and make Ruby one of the most cherished gems in history!
This illustrious and famous gem has been mined for over 2,500 years, and continues to be mined today, and can be mainly found in extraordinarily legendary places including, Madagascar, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, and Thailand to name a few, of which have been beloved for centuries. Nicknamed the “Lord of Gems”, Rubies also hold the name of ‘precious stones’ in Sanskrit. These elements just further add to the mysterious and legendary nature of the beautiful red stone of Ruby.
In ancient times, Rubies adorned the garments worn by warriors into battle, as it was said to make them invincible in battle and be able to protect them while they fought. They believed by adorning them, they would then become victorious in battle, as they are protected from all evils that would be surrounding them as they fought. Warriors also adorned themselves with this stone as it was said to protect an individual from poisons and have the distinct possibility to counteract any effects of being poisoned. Rubies have a rampant history of being able to do a lot of extraordinary things. According to European folklore, Rubies brought about health and wealth for the owner of the precious stone. Besides bringing health to the individual in care of this stone, it was also believed to restore youth and vitality to the individual, simply by rubbing on your skin!
Other tales of the red Ruby include success and wisdom as well as ever lasting love to the lucky beholder of the stone. Ruby has long stood as a great symbol of love and passion. Traditions and tales of the stone according to the people of India say that the stone gives the beholder the ability to live at peace with all of his enemies. Kings, heads of state and other notable Royals kept Rubies in precious possession for these reasons as well as the tale that they protect against vulnerability. Royals sought after this stone because of its legendary ability to turn to a darken state when they are presented with danger, and return to their normal state when the threat is gone.
With this illustrious and well known history, it’s no wonder why this beautiful red stone has kept immense popularity for centuries! Due to its rarity, and overwhelming amount of history and legendary tales that surround the red Ruby stone, makes it extremely valuable and expensive. These stones can even be more expensive than the rare, colorless diamonds! Ruby’s distinctive red color is what differentiates itself from other and closely related sapphires. This is a controversial issue when it comes to Rubies, as sapphires are categorized as all other colors minus the beautiful red color of a Ruby. This draws controversy due to the pink to red colors of stones that can be considered in the realm of Ruby as well. The most expensive and valuable of these stones are the deeper and pure, vivid red colors that make Ruby distinct from every other stone there is!
Ruby & Diamond Band
Thus with reputation and fame that comes with this precious stone, care and cleaning of the stone becomes a very important task. To clean your gorgeous Ruby stone use only warm, soapy water. Avoid the use of strong detergents and vigorous scrubbing of the stone, as it will affect the overall quality and beauty of the Ruby. If you choose to clean this precious stone by means of an ultrasonic or steam cleaner, those are generally safe for the stones as well. It is important for you to check the overall quality of your stone as well to ensure a lifetime of use, and to observe any fractures or cavities within the stone. Fractures or cavities within the stone can damage the overall quality as well as the overall look of the stone. Stones with poor quality can change color or even affect the clarity of the Ruby. Also by having fractures or cavities within the stone can ultimately damage and destroy the stone as a whole.
In the end, one legend of this stone has remained constant throughout its popularity and solidified its status as the symbol for eternal love. Thus making Ruby the absolute perfect gift for both the fifteenth and fortieth wedding anniversaries! Show your beloved just how important your love is with this everlasting symbol! Ruby is also the birthstone for individuals who are born in the month of July. So, spread, and share the love with this eternal symbol of love!
Speaking of eternal love, Congratulations to Jessica Simpson and Eric Johnson! Eric popped the question to Simpson with, what else, than a 3 stone ring, featuring a center stone of Ruby, flanked by two diamonds! Looking for something distinct and yet traditional? Check out the Ruby rings by WeddingBands.com! As well as Diamond bands, and Anniversary bands that can be a great addition to any engagement ring!