ENGAGEMENT RING TRADITIONS

The engagement ring is steeped in tradition and symbolism, but the customs associated with it can vary significantly from country to country. In Europe, Asia, and the United States, each region has its own unique way of wearing this type of jewelry. Here we tell you more about these fascinating differences.

Arabia

In Arab countries, tradition dictates that only the woman receives a gold wedding ring, while her husband receives an iron one. This practice, common in nations such as Egypt, Algeria, and Libya, reflects the idea of ​​humility for men, who are not entitled to a gold ring. Wedding rings, on the other hand, are placed on the ring finger of the left hand, marking the beginning of a new stage in the lives of the couple.

Chili

In this country, both men and women wear their engagement rings on their right hands. However, after the wedding ceremony, these rings are transferred to the left hand. This practice reflects a local tradition in which the exchange of hands symbolizes the transition to a new stage in the couple's life.

Argentina

In Argentina, it is common for couples to exchange rings at the time of their engagement, but they do not repeat this gesture at the wedding ceremony.

Mexico

In Mexico, it is traditional for the groom to ask the bride's parents for permission to propose to her, and this request is often made without the couple's knowledge. Once consent is obtained, engagement planning begins, which can extend over days, weeks, or even months. After the engagement, the bride's family hosts a meal to formalize the proposal, an event known in Mexico as "La Pedida."

Israel

Here, the wedding ring should be as simple as possible, as it represents purity and simplicity, as the use of precious stones is avoided. Likewise, for an Israeli woman, wearing the ring at all times symbolizes her fidelity to her husband, while for a man, the ring is optional and can be worn or kept in a jewelry box.

Netherlands

In the Netherlands, Protestants typically wear their wedding rings on their right hands. Similarly, in Germany, engagement rings are worn on the left hand, while wedding rings are worn on the right.

Ireland

In Ireland, the traditional engagement ring is the Claddagh, which features a heart held by two hands and crowned at the top. This ring, which symbolizes love, friendship, and loyalty, is worn on the left hand with the crown facing the wearer.

When getting married, the ring is turned so that the crown faces outwards, marking the change in marital status and the beginning of a new stage in life.

Kenya

In northern Kenya, Samburu warriors forgo rings and wear decorated ribbons around their necks as a symbol of commitment before marriage. These ornaments represent the promise and agreement prior to the wedding, reflecting the importance and tradition of their culture in the marriage process.