I was charmed when I first arrived in Sweden and realized that when a couple became engaged, both began to wear an engagement ring. They made the decision to marry together. (Although, I'm sure one or the other asked and the other answered!) And then, together, out they went to purchase a gold band apiece.
Diamonds are a fairly recent addition to the Swedish wedding scene, brought here by Hollywood and wedding magazines. There's certainly nothing wrong with diamonds, they're a gorgeous stone. However, he simplicity of the golden bands is quite lovely and the notion that both people are visibly engaged, proud and happy to announce their commitment to the world is a wonderful statement.
Then when the couple married, both the bride and groom added a second gold band. This announced your status change from engaged to married. And on you went in life until you had children.
It was not uncommon in earlier times for the woman to add a third gold band as she became a mother. Sometimes that ring was added as the couple married, sometimes the ring wasn't added until the children arrived. (At this point, you'd want to be adding fairly small bands!)
If you were going to do that today, both the parents would want to add a gold band, because both are equally proud and both are equally responsible for that family. Celebrate life where you find it. Use gold bands to signify your dedication to your beloved, your marriage and your family.
This is a lovely custom to consider, one, not very like a traditional American engagement and wedding ring traditions, but with a great amount of integrity.
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