Where and when did the custom of giving a second (i.e., a wedding band) originate?
Giving a second ring, a wedding band, is a relatively recent practice. Since 1477, when Archduke Maximilian I, emperor of Austria gave a diamond betrothal ring to Mary of Burgundy, the diamond has been the gem of choice to seal an engagement. 7. How and where did the traditional engagement ring and wedding band “guard” originate? In 1761, King George III first introduced the tradition of the “keeper,” or guard ring. He presented a band encircled with diamonds to his bride, Queen Charlotte. Today such rings continue their popularity as a wedding or an anniversary band. 8. In which country is it traditional for the bridegroom to give a ring to everyone who attended the wedding ceremony? The custom existed in Persia . . . and, by the way, out to be “outdone,” Queen Victoria and Prince Albert gave out six dozen rings, each engraved with the queen’s profile, at their wedding ceremony. Click Here To Return to Wedding Guide & Planner Index Click Here To Return to Welcome Page ©The right to do
