Jewish weddings and rings

[freeatlast]

Interesting food for thought. While studying on the parable of the 5 wise and the five foolish I stumbled across this information of the views of our Hebraic roots on the wedding ring.

I'll post comments below from three different hebrew websites:
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GIVING OF THE RING
The ring should be made of plain gold, without blemishes or ornamentation (e.g. stones) -- just as it is hoped that the marriage will be one of simple beauty.
The chatan (bridegroom) now takes the wedding ring in his hand, and in clear view of two witnesses, he declares to his wife, Behold, you are betrothed unto me with this ring according to the laws of Moses and Israel. He then places the ring on the forefinger of his bride's right hand. According to Jewish law, this is the central moment of the wedding ceremony, and the couple is now fully married at this point.
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The groom, now takes a plain gold ring and places it on the finger of the bride, and recites in the presence of two witnesses, "Behold you are sanctified (betrothed) to me with this ring, according to the Law of Moses and Israel." The ring symbolizes the concept of the groom encompassing, protecting and providing for his wife. The ketuvah is now read aloud, usually by another honoree, after which it is given to the bride.
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The Blessings of Betrothal
Jewish Weddings
Two blessings follow the events of the Bridal Procession. The first is said over a cup of red wine, which is used on all festive Jewish occasions. The second blessing gives thanks for the institution of marriage. The bride and groom drink from the same cup to remind them that they will share from the same cup of life, whatever it brings. The couple makes solemn promises to each other and exchange rings. Traditionally, the ring must be a simple, single band of metal. It's wholeness symbolises the union of the couple; two individuals who become one. As the exchange of rings indicates, the Jewish marriage ceremony is essentially a contract made between the couple. The ring is placed symbolically on the forefinger of the right hand. This is based on an ancient belief that a vein runs directly from this finger to the heart. By accepting a ring from each other, the marriage is effected.