The Fantasy Review: When Does Elrond Get a Ring of Power?
Elrond, the Half-elven Lord of Rivendell, was a powerful and influential Elven character in Middle-earth.
Check out: A Brief History of Elrond.
Elrond’s Ring of Power
Elrond received one of the three Elven Rings of Power known as Vilya from Gil-galad before the latter’s passing during the War of the Alliance. The ring helped him maintain the security and timelessness of Rivendell, making it a sanctuary for all who needed it.
Vilya was crafted by the Noldorin-smiths of Eregion under the guidance of Celebrimbor. Unlike the seven Dwarf-rings and nine rings for Men, the three Elven Rings of Power were made without the influence of Sauron, meaning they were not tainted by him.
The word Vilya is the Quenya word for “air” or “sky”.
Characteristics of Vilya
- The mightiest of the three Elven Rings
- Made of gold
- Set with a great sapphire
Significance in the Story and the Fate of Vilya
Elrond used Vilya in his fight against Sauron, participating in significant events such as:
- Leading the Last Alliance of Elves and Men in the Second Age
- Establishing the White Council in the Third Age
- Providing shelter and guidance to Frodo Baggins and his companions during the War of the Ring
After the defeat of Sauron and the destruction of the One Ring at the end of the War of the Ring, the power of all the Rings of Power, including Vilya, faded. This marked the end of the Third Age and the diminishing of the Elves’ influence in Middle-earth. Elrond then sailed to the Undying Lands, taking Vilya with him.
