Wedding-rings have been in use from early days, but the early Christians do not appear to have adopted them till 860 A. D. They were not at first the plain circlets we now use, but were often highly decorated.
The custom was of pagan origin, and at first was not welcomed by the Church. Even in the time of the Commonwealth the custom was considered to be of "heathenish origin," and was discouraged, though not entirely abandoned. In some countries both men and women wear them. No doubt many of the posy rings were made for this purpose, including those with mottoes such as:
- "In thee my choice I do rejoice"
- "Tis God above doth seal our love"
- "Thou hast my heart till Death doth part"
- "I kiss the rod from thee and God"
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