In Viking times, men and women wore different pieces of jewelry. The rings were worn mainly by men. They wore them on their fingers, hands and, even necks. In addition, Viking rings for men were used to fasten cloaks. Ancient Viking rings also indicate belonging to a particular tribe. Tribe men wore them during oaths as a symbol of fidelity.
There were also special ‘oath rings’ used during the oath in court. They also meant a connection with the gods and show the level of wealth. Also, some rings were used as currency. The Vikings just broke off a piece of a ring and used it as money. That means, the rings were very important for the Vikings.
Authentic Viking rings had beautifully carved images. Each of them was a symbol and was of great importance to the owner. Up to these days, they are so popular and you can buy them even online. In fact, there is a large selection of authentic Viking rings which are made of different materials: stainless steel, sterling silver, bronze, ruthenium, gold. By the way, they are also divided into groups according to their meaning and type. Therefore, before choosing an antique Viking ring for yourself, you should read about each of them.
Viking Ring Designs
The Viking rings had different designs. Each of them had its meaning. That’s why the difference in appearance was so important. Viking rings had unique designs that included geometric patterns, depicting birds and various animals. There are 7 types of the Viking rings.
Runes ring
The runes on the rings formed the alphabet. There were 24 of them. They have different interpretations. First, with their help, Vikings could communicate. As each drawing was different, they were given a magical meaning. They also served as initials of names.
Valknut ring
Valknut rings also have their meanings. It is believed that the Valknut ring is a symbol of the god Odin. He used it to endow people with intelligence or, conversely, to take it from them. It helped people in wars. Because the ring depicts interconnected triangles, they symbolize the nine worlds. It is also due to the Vikings’ belief in reincarnation.
Yggdrasil ring
This ring symbolizes the Tree of Life. In another way, it is called the World Tree. The Vikings believed that this ring symbolized the door to the nine worlds. The tree was also considered a place where all the gods gathered together. There they solved their problems. Also, below the roots of the tree are stalks and wells.
There is another story that is related to the symbol of the ring. It is about the god Odin who sought wisdom for what he had to give up life. So, he stabbed himself with a sword and seed for nine days on his horse Yggdrasil.
Aegishjalmur ring
The Aegishjalmur ring was a symbol that protected against all types of evil forces. It was also called the wheel of terror. Vikings twisted 8 times with the crossbars at the tips of the tower to protect against any attacks. Today the symbol is very popular. In fact, people like to use it as a tattoo. The Vikings cut him on the forehead for protection.
Vegvisir or the Viking Compass ring
This ring shows 8 sticks. They are all connected in the center and the ends point in different directions. Sailors used it to find their way during a storm. The ring can be compared to today’s compass.
Mjolnir ring
In those days, people believed that rings had great power. That is why Mjolnir was a symbol that protected from storms and everyday life. The symbol also meant the hammer of the god Thor. It was the most powerful weapon in those days. His weight could smash everything on earth.
Did Vikings wear wedding rings?
The Vikings had wedding rings. During the wedding, they exchanged swords with rings on the tips. Mens Viking rings signified the continuity of the bloodline. The women’s ring meant the transfer of their protection from father to husband. The wedding rings were also a symbol of the new community. They showed the importance of family honor. It was very important for their culture. The rings were proof of marriage.
You can also buy a wedding Viking ring. They have exquisite designs and are made of different materials.