In many cultures, brides were traditionally betrothed to their grooms while they were very young. The groom's family sends betrothal gifts to the bride's, which cements the engagement. Years later, when they are ready to marry, a dowry from the bride's family is sent to the groom's, within a specific period before the wedding day. Some cultures incorporated the use of rings earlier than others; but such rings were made only of gold, with no stones on them. And the rings weren't always put on the girl's finger, sometimes, it was a nose ring.