The Evolution of Eternity Rings
When most people think of eternity rings they think of a modern fad but this cannot be much further from the truth. The practice of using this type of jewelry can be traced by nearly 4,000 years, to the tombs of ancient Egypt and they have always symbolized the eternal and enduring nature of any relationship. The basic eternity ring is a simple band of metal with gems circling the band. Both circles are supposed to symbolized eternity but different eternities. The band of metal symbolizes the never ending existence of the Universe, while the unbroken line of stones represents the unbroken nature of the personal relationship and the beauty of one comes from the strength and support of the other.
The first eternity rings were what is called now half eternity rings. These rings only had stones going half way around the band and the band was usually in the form of a serpent swallowing its tail, a symbol for infinity from the mists of time. The rings were not traditionally mounted either. Instead of using regular mountings the stones were actually held flush to the metal. This has changed dramatically over the centuries and the bands are now mostly plain and the stones are usually mounted with prongs or claws. If they are set into the metal they are channel set. Of all the mounting possibilities however most owners prefer the flush setting with a full eternity ring because it is much more comfortable to wear and the gems are much more secure.
Eternity rings are given on other occasions other than as a love gift. Many people buy matching his and hers eternity rings to commemorate the birth of a child or the success of a business venture. An eternity ring can symbolize many different forms of love and loyalty and many people use them for many different reasons.
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