Platinum Wedding Rings Marriage Rates Fall
Many people dream of the day they exchange wedding rings – after all, it's meant to be the happiest day of your life, representing love, security and family. But figures released by the Office of National Statistics show that the number of couples exchanging wedding rings is waning. In March 2006, marriage rates fell to their lowest level on record.
Wedding Rings - 1862 to 2006
The number of wedding rings exchanged has fallen to its lowest levels since records began in 1862. The Office of National Statistics revealed:
- In 2006, 22.8 men per 1,000 unmarried men aged 16 and over got married, down from 24.5 in 2005.
- In 2006 the percentage of women exchanging wedding rings was 20.5 per 1,000 unmarried women aged 16 and over, down from 21.9 in 2005.
- In 2006, the number of marriages fell by 4%, compared with the previous year.
- In 1895 more wedding rings were exchanged than in 2006 with 228,204 weddings.
- More than three-fifths (61%) of all marriages in 2006 were the first for both parties, while remarriages for both parties accounted for just under one fifth (18%).
- First marriages have fallen by more than one third (37%) since 1981, while remarriages have fallen by a quarter.
Wedding Rings Exchanged Much Later
The figures also showed that more couples were waiting longer until they got married. The average age men invested in wedding rings and got hitched was 36.4 years in 2006, five years older than the average groom's age in 1991. For women the average age they exchanged wedding rings with their partner was 33.7 in 2006 – an increase of just over 4.5 years since 1991.
Couples Eventually say, 'I Do'
Although marriage rates are falling, divorce figures have also dropped. More couples are choosing to cohabit before marriage for longer. But, Kathleen Kiernan, a professor of social policy and demography at the University of York told the press, “eventually they do marry”.
“If you were to look at the proportion who do eventually marry, it's likely that the decline would not be as striking,” she added.
Speak to Platinum Ring Company about Wedding Rings
Platinum Ring Company has a wide range of wedding rings to suit all tastes and budgets. From plain gold bands to contemporary diamond rings, you can find your perfect wedding rings and order online. Set in tasteful ring boxes and with free UK delivery, Platinum Ring Company is the perfect place to find wedding rings for your big day. For more information, browse our website, or call us free on 0800 055 6213.
Last Updated: November 21, 2011
