Originally napkin rings were used for categorizing napkins into batches in preparation for washing every week. Majority of these rings were made of silver although several other materials such as wood, glass, bone, peal embroidery and porcelain were also used. In recent times, modern materials such as Bakelite have been brought into use in making the napkin rings.
Among the many benefits of silver napkin rings is that they make exceptional gifts. This is due to the elegance they add on any dining table and also the possibility to customize them to fit any occasion. A choice of both fancy and plain rings can be used to add glamour to the dining table during a wedding ceremony or any such like celebration.
A wide variety of these rings is available in pawn shops and several online collector shops. Some of the factors that need to be taken into consideration when purchasing the rings are the ability to do engraving since not all designs of napkin rings can be engraved and also the number of rings one wishes to have in a set; with the sets coming in four, six, eight, ten and twelve rings sets.
Examples of silver napkin rings available in the market are: the basket weave, which is generally made of sterling silver and comes in designs that cannot be engraved. The standard silver is another type of ring which is made either from sterling silver or in some instances just silver coated. These are by far the most common in the market and can be found in the form of circles, squares, rectangles among other geometric shapes. These are very suitable for people who need engraving to be done on their rings. The last type is the repousse napkin rings which are by far the most advanced in design. They can also be engraved and personalized for special occasions thus making them the ideal gifts.