The SEPTIŅDIENU (7 day ) ring is one of the most recognized symbols of someone having ties with the Baltic States especially Latvia. A beautiful distinct silver ring with 7 distinct charms. It was made popular by the television program Bad Vegan.
The orgins of the SEPTIŅDIENU ring.
Modern contemporary jewellery from the Baltic States especially Latvia and Lithuania often showcases pagan mythological symbols that illustrate a strong connection to the ancient customs and traditions shared across these cultures. The intricate symbolism that is seen on jewellery like the Latvian Seven day ring, dates back to the 6th century. These ancient symbols promise, eternal love, and unbreakable commitment. They capture the rich cultural heritage and beliefs that have endured over centuries, emphasising the timeless values and unity in love and relationships
The SEPTIŅDIENU ring is steeped in numerous stories and legends that have enveloped its cultural significance to the Latvian people. One of the simplest stories is that the ring is an engagement ring with strong ties to Latvian Heritage. The symbols on the charms date back hundreds if years.
Another version of the rings history also relates to love and future marriage. The legend states that a young, beautiful, un-married girl couldn't decide between her 7 suitors. She went to the jeweller and a had ring with 7 charms each with an individual symbol made. She assigned each charm with its distinct symbol to a suitor. Over time gradually the charms would fall off. She would marry the suitor represented by the charm that fell off first (in another story - she would marry the suitor who was represented by the last charm left)
In a similar version of this story the young girl still waited for the charms to fall off the ring. When the last charm falls off the ring it symbolizes that she will be marry in the next year.
The modern version of the story behind the ring, is that each symbol corresponds to a day of the week and is said to bring enrichment to a person's life. This story introduces a different yet meaningful perspective on the charms and their significance.
Whilst there are 7 charms on the ring and there are no set 7 specific symbols. The symbols on the charms do vary depending on the jeweller who makes the ring or at the request of the wearer.
It is common these days for the ring to be worn by unmarried and married women with the ring being made from either silver or gold.
The more common symbols seen on the charms are:
AUSTRAS KOKS - (tree of life) links the past, present and future. Guardian of the beautiful and valuable and believed to bring luck, blessings and success
ŪSIŅA ZĪME -symbol of fertility
ZVAIGZNE - represents the balance life and death. Protects against evil.
AKAS ZĪME - symbol of the sun and earth, knowledge and experience, unity and world order.
LAIMA - represents good fortune
PĒRKONS - the symbol of thunder cross. It represents happiness and energy along with fire, thunder and wind
MĀRA - the symbol of peace and stability. The protector of women.
The Seven Day ring has a rich history with multiple stories attributing significance to its symbols. Each story adds to the ring's mystique and cultural importance, making it a cherished item with various interpretations. It has become very popular within the worldwide Latvian community outside and now also in Latvia. Like the NAMEJS ring, wearers can instantly identify themselves as having a close link to Latvia and Latvian heritage.
Symbols found on other Latvian jewellery
The charms seen on the SEPTIŅDIENU ring are now seen on many new contemporary jewellery pieces. Modern pieces with a touch of heritage.
