Right now on the Jewish calendar we are in a period of mourning called "the Omer" during which weddings do not take place, or at the least only after the 33rd day (of 49) in some Sephardic communities. Of course there is no reason not to talk about the amazing house shaped wedding ring that while not used today (there was a contemporary jeweler making some in small batches) it sure should be as in my eyes it is downright fantastic!
The Jewish house wedding ring originated in Medievel Europe, dating back to the 14th century, about 400 years after rings began to be used in Jewish wedding ceremonies in the 10th century. The house ring consists of a miniature model of a house or temple instead of a gemstone, and while early rings were quite simple, they became very very ornate over time. The house, like the huppah, is thought to have symbolized a couple’s new home together. Because of their ornateness, these rings were probably not used for every day and many have bands that make them nearly impossible to actually wear, so it’s not clear when exactly during the betrothal period or ceremony they were worn. Unfortunately there is no one around today who can fill us in, but keep reading to learn more!
The extravagance and value of many of the rings has also lead experts to believe that one ring might have been owned and shared by an entire community, borrowed by each couple for ceremonial purposes during the wedding, and then returned. Within rich merchant and banking families on the other hand, the rings were traditionally family heirlooms passed from generation to generation. Okay, lets take a look at some more examples of these amazing rings!
These wonderful rings, both unique and opulent featured miniature palaces, castles and temples, standing in the place of a gemstone, and were often inscribed with Hebrew. The architectural symbols, which are thought to represent the marital home of the couple (and in some cases symbolized Solomon's Temple in Jerusalem), often had a roof which opened to read "Mazal Tov" (Good Luck in Hebrew) inside, or just two hebrew letters standing for the phrase. Over time the craftsmanship of the rings included very intricate filigree and enamel work (as shown above). It is interesting to note that despite the very high level of craftsmanship and cost, gemstones remain absent, most likely for religious reasons.
So many wonderful examples of the creativity of the jewelers, who also were not afraid to make something that didn't exactly conform to an expected design!
I do love the ring on the right with the grape vine, but can't imagine it was actually worn, those little grapes were surely not comfortable!
If this article has awakened an interest in these amazing rings, check out a collection of many images I've saved on my Pinterest board Jewish House Wedding Rings.
And yes, of course I'm thinking I should become a jewelry designer just to make some contemporary versions, which have been made, but not marketed in such a way that every Jewish bride would want one! I did see that chloe lee carson was making some really modern versions of this ring, in 18k gold, but it looks like she is on a hiatus, maybe you can convince her otherwise! I also just found Libby Williamson, who is making them in bronze, something to consider.
And if you are now thinking about Jewish wedding design, and you'd like to see a gorgeous contemporary chuppa designs, check out my posts about a bamboo chuppa and a rustic floral chuppa. Here's to many happy ocassions!
