Legends of Chinese silver rings
As early as 4,000 years ago, Chinese people started to wear special rings, and later silver rings became popular. Here are some theories on the development of engagement rings and promise rings.
Old Instinct: Take a woman and marry her
In ancient times, men from different tribes often stole women of other tribes and aimed to marry them. When a man got a woman, he would put shackles on her. As time went on, the restraints turned into engagement rings. Putting a silver ring onto a woman's finger meant she was owned by her man.
Religion: Worshipping the sun and the moon
For centuries, Chinese rings have symbolized the sun that gives people warmth and protection. People have been wearing silver rings to pray for a safe, peaceful, and happy life. In the past, the groom would usually wear a gold ring, while bride would wear a silver engagement ring before a wedding. Gold stood for the sun, and a silver ring represented the moon.
Emperor Only: Restraint on fingers
“Ring” in Mandarin Chinese literally means “restraint on fingers.” The imperial concubines were the first people in China to wear rings. An emperor in ancient China had dozens of concubines. When a concubine was pregnant, she would wear a unique ring on her right hand to inform the emperor not to bother.
Today, silver rings, engagement rings, and promise rings have become a keepsake of marriage and are popular with almost everybody. Check out the handmade silver rings on our site to have your very own piece of Chinese culture.
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