Linking

Linking is a tradition done by Dwarves every ten years to strengthen bonds between lovers. This is one of the few emotional aspects of the stoic dwarven culture. Elves have a similar tradition, though it is not known whether the two are related or simply a coincidence.

History

The tradition originated from worshippers of Adriel Noctisol, Patron of Death, who is also the Patron of Love and Loyalty, that migrated to the north east mountains on a pilgrimage. The symbol of Adriel is an eclipse, but this has also been interpreted as two linking circles. When the dwarves first adopted the worship of Adriel, it was particularly unpopular. Simple symbols of linked metal rings were offered for the followers, but because dwarves prefer intricate detail, they were refused. One particularly skilled smith decided to adopt this ideology for his beloved, making two intricately linked rings of silver embedded with gems. The true design was lost, but it is commonly believed that it was six intertwined Sea Serpents per ring, signifying strength and power.

Practice

In the past, the male dwarves would make the rings, but in recent centuries females have begun making them as well. The exact appearance of the rings are personalised to each relationship, although sea serpents are a common theme for the sake of tradition. Some examples are flowers, vines, icicles or just intricately woven metal. The size of the rings is also dependent on the person. New rings are made every ten years in a certain order, added to the last rings made. It is not uncommon to see older dwarves with long necklaces made of rings, wrapped into two layers so they don't drag. For the first hundred years, the rings are made of silver, with the particular gems embedded appropriately. When the first cycle of gems finishes, the next cycle of rings are made with gold. The cycle after that, until 300 years is made in platinum. If any dwarf is still making them after that time, they are set in mithral.

Ten Years: Simple Silver Frame
Twenty Years: Ruby or Red Garnet
Thirty Years: Sapphire or Aquamarine
Forty Years: Yellow Tourmaline or Citrine
Fifty Years: Emerald or Jade
Sixty Years: Onyx or Black Diamond
Seventy Years: Diamond or Pearl
Eighty Years: Rose Quartz or Pink Topaz
Ninety Years: Purple Spinel
One Hundred Years: Gold Frame

Expansion

Because of the beauty and significance of the rings, other races such as humans wish to purchase them for their own lovers. However, dwarves are undecided on whether to sell these important cultural and personal items to foreigners. Some say that if the humans want them, they should make the rings themselves. Of course, no human has the skill or patience of a dwarf, making it a slightly dismissive statement. Others say that the tradition is for dwarves alone, and to copy it would be offensive to the entire dwarven culture and history. This hasn't stopped one or two dwarves from creating custom rings for trade, though in secret to avoid being shunned.