RANDOM GREEK FACT #4
WEDDING RINGS IN GREECE
These are samples of what Greek wedding rings look like! No, unfortunately, we don't have the custom of the engagement ring with the 'rock' (even though we do get these, too, they're just not signifying betrothal or wedding proposal - just love.)
The most common are the plain gold ones, (almost always 18K) even though the last few years couples chose more elaborate rings that have at least some design (yes, they pick them out together!)...
.... such as these...
...of course the couple wears matching wedding bands!
Many couples, instead of gold, chose platinum and white gold wedding rings that have also become very popular. There are so many beautiful designs! It's simply what you can afford. Traditionally, it's a cost that the groom picks up but lately young couples share all the expenses.
Now, how about many little 'rocks' on the wedding ring? (I'm okay with that!!!!!)
In the USA, and in other countries as well, the wedding ring is worn on the left hand. In Greece though it is worn on the right hand.
When a Greek couple becomes engaged they do so in the presence of family and friends by exchanging rings. The priest blesses the rings and the couple will wear the rings on their left hand until the wedding. (Of course after the engagement there is always a big feast.)
These same engagement rings will serve as the wedding rings! The engaged couple will not buy another pair. These rings have been blessed and are binding them. At the wedding ceremony, the priest once again blesses the rings at which time the bride and groom switch the rings to the right hand.
Right before the wedding the couple gives the rings to the goldsmith to have them polished and inscribed on the inside with their names and date of the wedding. After the ceremony, the man will be wearing his ring that has the name of his wife engraved and vice versa.
"Wedding rings are symbols of eternal love and devotion just as the circle of these gold wedding rings has no beginning or end."
All photos are courtesy of Google images.
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