Sterling Fede Gimmel Ring

THE STORY:

A gimmel or gimmal ring (also called fede) is a type of promise ring exchanged by lovers at the time of their engagement. It’s full of meaning and symbolism, with its roots in a tradition of equality and respect for both parties of the relationship.

This name is due to the nature of the gimmel ring which can be taken apart into two (or three) rings. The word gimmel comes from the Latin gemellus meaning ‘twin’. A gimmel ring features several loops or links that can fit together to form a single ring or taken apart to be worn as individual rings. Commonly, the gimmel consisted of two or three loops, but later more elaborate versions were designed, containing at least 5 rings with a small pin that held them together.

These loops were worn by the bride and groom at the time of their betrothal until their wedding, when they would be united to form a single ring, worn by the bride.

In the 17^th century, gimmel rings were extremely popular in parts of Europe and many betrothed couples wore them to signify their betrothal. During this medieval period, the wearing of wedding rings had already become a popular concept, and couples wore rings to represent their ‘taken’ status. 

THE SPECS: