Monfredo, Rachel Jean2020-05-262020-05-261990http://udspace.udel.edu/handle/19716/27173This thesis presents the cultural and historical background for five types of American rings: (1) wedding, and related engagement and friendship rings, (2) mourning rings, (3) fraternal rings, (4) class rings, and (5) sports rings. Nineteenth-century etiquette literature and trade catalogues were investigated to establish ring use. A typology of ring designs is provided through illustrations. ☐ Comparative interpretations of the rings' forms are explored. The plain "wedding" band is shown to represent significant relationships between individuals. The signet ring is shown to have represented group membership since the early nineteenth century. ☐ Theories adapted from sociology and psychology provide methods for interpreting the significance of rings. Rings serve as forms of verbal and nonverbal communication by disclosing aspects of an individual's identity. The ring substantiates its wearer's personal and social identity which can be interpreted at public and personal levels.Rings -- United StatesThesis1155438649