The History of Gimmel Rings.

 The other night, I watched a show where a jeweler had a Gimmel ring but it wasn't complete.  If you haven't heard the term before, it is a interlocking ring, also referred to as a puzzle ring.

Originally, these were made up of two plain interlocking rings called gimmel rings. Gimmel comes from the Latin word "gemellus" meaning twin.

Although the rings were interlocking, they could be separated and worn by each person.  There are two trains of thought on these.  Sometimes, there would be a ruby, emerald, or diamond set in the bands which was used to hold the rings together.

One train says the configuration made it uncomfortable to wear that way. So it would be worn separately during the exchange of vows before it was reassembled.  The other train believed the two hoops were worn by the engaged couple and once they exchanged vows, the two rings were reassembled and the bride wore it. 

Historically, these rings were given either to represent a pledge between couples although it might not lead to marriage or between men representing friendship.  There is a record of King Henry III giving a ruby and emerald gimmel set to a count to show friendship.

As time passed with the rising of better metal working techniques, enameling and gem cutting, gimmel rings became more and more elaborate.   In addition, it became possible to engrave a few words inside the rings. Instead of friendship, the rings represented either betrothal or marriage.  Eventually, the woman wore the ring as a wedding ring but in 1649 When Oliver Cromwell took power, he tried to outlaw wedding rings including gimmel rings. but never succeeded.

Beginning in the 17th century, artisans expanded the number of hoops in each gimmel ring until some could be made of twelve interlocking hoops.  It was during this time that the nick of "Puzzle Rings" came about because it was a challenge putting them back together once they'd been taken apart.  Many of the rings at this time had clasped hands holding the heart shaped hands so it looked as if the hands held the heart.

Although the two hoop gimmel rings continued being used until the nineteen century, they slowly disappeared when clergymen pushed for simpler single bands.  Eventually the single wedding band idea took over.  It appears, gimmel rings are making a reappearance.

Let me know what you think, I'd love to hear.  Have a great day.