A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion for many people,
although for an increasing number of persons, it has become a
several-in-a-lifetime event. In any case, it is still a very
special ceremony that binds not only a man and a woman together;
today, gay male couples and gay women couples also observe the
ceremony to affirm their lifelong commitment to each other. In
such ceremonies, the gay wedding ring takes center stage.
Same-sex marriage is still illegal in the majority of U.S.
states and in countries all over the world, so what gay couples
opt for is to participate in a “commitment ceremony,” where the
exchange of gay wedding rings also takes place. A gay wedding
ring most often resembles the traditional gold or platinum
wedding band. Of course, the couples are free to have the
designs or the metal they wish for their gay wedding ring.
Gay-related symbols are often engraved on the rings, and various
textures and effects are available as well. Irish and Scottish
rings, multicolored rings, woven rings – a wealth of options is
available.
Homosexual and lesbian couples who have exchanged or are
planning to exchange gay wedding rings in commitment or blessing
ceremonies include Rosie and Kelly O’Donnell, and actress Sophie
Ward and Rena Brannan. British musician Sir Elton John and David
Furbish have also talked about getting married as soon as gays
are legally allowed to join together in matrimony in Great
Britain.
Jewelry designers such as Udi Behr are recognizing the need of
“unconventional” couples to affirm their commitment to one
another. Behr created a collection of gay wedding rings and gay
engagement rings called “Love and Pride” in support of the gay
rights movement. Behr, who is himself straight, is a popular
designer among celebrities; famous people who buy his work
include Sharon Stone and Britney Spears.
As with heterosexual couples, gay couples see their weddings
bands as a tangible symbol of their love and commitment to one
another. Notwithstanding governmental indifference to or
disapproval of their needs and wishes, gay people will go on
standing for what they believe is their right. The gay wedding
ring, aside from its romantic connotations, has also become a
symbol of the large part of homosexual culture in today’s
society.