Featured: The Zoey - Rose Gold
Wishbone rings, also known as chevron rings, are unique and meaningful pieces of jewelry that are steeped in history and symbolism. With its distinctive V-shape, the wishbone ring is a popular choice for wedding jewelry and a wishbone wedding ring is often used as a ring guard for the engagement ring. This ring shape is renowned for its durability, too, making it an excellent option for everyday wear.
But there's more to this ring design than just its practicality. It also represents hope, luck and the promise of a shared future for the wearer and their loved one. In this article, we'll explore the fascinating history and symbolism behind wishbone rings and take a closer look at the origins of the tradition of breaking a wishbone for good luck, and how this shape has been used in jewelry throughout the centuries. We'll also discuss the practical considerations to keep in mind when purchasing a wishbone ring, including the different materials and styles available, and how to find a ring that provides the necessary protection for your engagement ring. Let’s dive in!
History and Meaning of Wishbone Rings
The first time you caught the sparkle of a chevron ring, also known as a wishbone ring, you might not have realized that glittering V was a bridge to the distant past. With a backstory that links dinosaur bones and legendary civilizations with modern jewelry, it’s no wonder that the ring has an unforgettable shape.
The tradition of breaking a wishbone in half for good luck dates back to ancient Italy, when there weren’t enough wishbones to go around for all the Romans and Etruscans looking to improve their fortune and gain long-lasting luck. So they had to go 50/50 on the wish-granting furcula, which is the fancy name for the forked collar bone found in birds and the occasional dinosaur. Feel free to summon your inner Tyrannosaurus Rex this coming Thanksgiving, when it is customary for two competitors to seize each end of a turkey’s wishbone and snap it in twain. There are plenty of strategy guides for securing the larger, luckier half.
Source: Derek Hatfield/Shutterstock.com
The history of these stacking rings might seem fanciful and the shape might seem whimsical, but wishbone rings are actually a very practical choice for wedding jewelry. That’s because the wishbone ring ideally accommodates the pointy gemstone set into the engagement ring. And again, the wishbone ring’s luck comes from its strength.
This v-shaped ring’s alternative name also provides a clue about its history. The word “chevron” comes from the French word for “rafter,” and refers to the protective roof of a house. Chevrons were a common design element on medieval shields. The chevron shape serves as a ring guard for the engagement ring, protecting that center stone and keeping the whole affair from snagging or slipping. It also represents protection in relationships.
Do I Need a Ring Guard for My Engagement Ring?
A wishbone ring has the same distinctive shape as the lucky furcula, and it also is associated with a hopeful couple and wishes coming true. It’s a symbol of luck and good fortune, and it’s a perfect option for marriages and special occasions.
While the name originates from the wishbone, that’s where the resemblance ends. Unlike the bird bits, the ring is made of much sturdier stuff. Don’t let the delicate-looking shape fool you or deter you from adding one of these stunning jewelry pieces to your wishlist. A wishbone ring is meant to remain unbroken through a lifetime of use. It’s literally a type of eternity band! And instead of a wishbone contest that separates participants into winner and loser, a wishbone ring joyously unites them into a shared future.
Find Your New Wishbone Ring at Modern Gents
At Modern Gents, we have plenty of wishbone ring options to make your dreams come true. Our daintily designed but rhodium-plated Zoey makes for an ideal bodyguard. It honestly pairs well with all sorts of settings, and it is available in a wide range of ring sizes. Check out how well it suits our Victoria, for example. But pear shaped engagement rings like The Bliss and The Scarlett are especially happy with the partnership!
Oh, and much like Captain America’s shield, wishbone rings are versatile accessories. They can set the tone for a set of stackable wedding bands or it can also shoulder solo work without breaking a sweat — like some kind of minimalist superhero. Wear a wishbone ring with your favorite necklaces or bracelets to complete your look.
Over the last few millennia, the wishbone has participated in a number of good luck rituals, some of which were a bit unsanitary or even downright bizarre. In Victorian times, unmarried women might place it over their doorway in the hopes of securing a husband. The first unattached fellow who crossed under it was destined to be a match – which sounds a bit chancy, to be frank. When it comes to romance, it’s much better to stick with the wishbone in its contemporary form — something that comes in nickel-free rose gold with a lifetime guarantee.
Shop All Stackable Wedding Ring Options
If you are in the market for a wishbone ring, check out the selection here at Modern Gents. Whether you love yellow gold, sterling silver or rose gold, we have options that are sure to suit your tastes. Shop today to add one of these beautiful good luck charms to your jewelry collection.