Are wedding rings still an important symbol of marriage?

Cheryl Cole was spotted without her wedding ring at the weekend, but does this mean her marriage is over or did she simply choose not to wear it?

It seems I can hardly pick up a magazine without reading a story about Cheryl Cole and rumours that her marriage may be on the rocks have been flying this week.

The Geordie Girls Aloud singer was seen on the X Factor without her wedding ring over the weekend and this has prompted speculation over her relationship with footballer husband Ashley Cole.

After the couple sent out wedding invitations and tied the knot in 2006, Ashley reportedly cheated on Cheryl with single mother Aimee Walton nearly two years ago.  But did they spend all that money on wedding planning for them split up now, or did Cheryl just forget to put her ring on for the show?

These days, happily married celebs are often seen without their wedding bands and I have started to wonder whether such jewellery is still regarded as an important sign of marriage.

In a world where famous female faces are constantly scrutinised for their fashion choices, maybe a wedding ring simply does not tie in with their outfit.

I think it is a traditional symbol of union between a husband and wife, but do you agree? Is wearing a wedding band necessary to show commitment to your partner?