The Wedding Tiara, Past & Present

Tiaras were historically worn by women for special events such as pageants, proms, and weddings. Tiaras from both the Greek and Roman Empires began as simple headbands made of cloth. With the passage of time, these simple tiaras began to be decorated with pearls and gems. Meanwhile, another kind of tiara in the shape of wreaths of leaves became popular also. These wreaths of leaves were awarded to winners in sports, but were also worn by officials during ceremonies. The origin of head ornaments can be traced back to ancient Greece. The word ‘tiara’ has its origin in Persia and its forerunner was the diadem.

The wedding tiara was originally presented to the bride before her wedding day by her father or husband. The tiara was encrusted with diamonds and other precious stones and was seen as a symbol of wealth and status. It was also a symbol of “married woman” status during a time when a spinster was looked down upon. Brides and married women proudly flaunted their tiaras, causing many red faces among the unmarried lot. In most of the weddings, the tiara was set with diamonds as diamonds symbolize an eternal bond (‘forever’). Some wedding tiaras, however, were set with turquoise and even jet.

The popularity of the wedding tiara reached its peak in the 19th century when tiaras and exquisite jewels became almost indispensable in any kind of social gathering. Women were found wearing their tiara with chandelier earrings, jeweled hair combs and attractive necklaces.

Not for wedding only

To begin with, there were three types of the wedding tiara - the diadem or circlet wedding tiara, the garland and the kokoshnik wedding tiara which, with its centre peak, is a popular wedding tiara shape even today. Now the once popular decorative floral hair-band has made way for a jewelry influenced version. And there are so many designs of the modern tiaras to choose from that today’s women find it difficult to make a choice.

No longer is the exclusive preserve of nobility, the modern tiara now accessible to women of all ages and status. You can now find women wearing tiaras on various occasions, including film premieres and Hollywood functions. Not just that, the modern tiara has now crossed another barrier. Young, independent woman now have begun wearing tiaras what was once the ultimate domain of their married “sisters.”

However, all said and done, there is hardly any sight more attractive than a bride wearing a tiara on her wedding day. Many women still eagerly wait for their wedding ceremony when they can wear one and become the star of the show.

Bride and groom looking to plan your wedding online? Jen Carter, owner of My Wedding Blog, offers free information on wedding planning.