Rings are perhaps the most common and yet the most evocative pieces of jewelry. Worn as a sign of love or as a fashion accessory, to mark weddings, remember the dead, or show religious faith, the unbroken circle—a plain band or one that is elegantly adorned—holds a multitude of meanings for every wearer. From simple medieval hoops worn to ward off disease, to the glamorous rocks worn on the red carpet by Hollywood stars, to stunning works of art cre­ated by contemporary artist-jewelers, this book draws from the collections of the V&A to offer a beautifully illustrated introduction to rings.