Connectedness: The Circle as a Symbol in Wedding Ring Steel Bracelet (Kara)

The circle is a symbol that best represents connectedness, since all regular polygons are embraced by it. Since it is without beginning or end it also represents infinity. It is simplest figure and therefore finds representation in numerous cultures. In body ornaments it often represents fidelity, eternal love and commitment. Let’s look at two body ornaments that are circular.

Let’s start with a symbol very common as an expression of love: The Wedding Ring, which was launched as a successful campaign by DeBeers, so that purchase of a diamond ring is now taken as the best expression of lasting love.

Before diamond wedding rings became popular thanks to DeBeers aggressive campaign, betrothal rings were a Roman custom. The ring due to its circular nature portrays infinity in the sense of lasting love.

A more overtly religious symbol is found in Sikhism of a steel bracelet called kara, (pictured below):

This symbol is an article of faith and forms part of the 5 K’s. The kara is worn on the right-hand and is made of steel to signify equality and strength. In keeping with the weeding ring it shows eternal bond through the infinitude of the circle but in this case to the Sikh Gurus, spiritual teachers.