The name Ria is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit language, which is an ancient Indo-Aryan language widely used in the Indian subcontinent. It is thought to be derived from the Sanskrit word "Riya," which means "pearl" or "precious stone." The name has been in use for centuries and has evolved over time with various spellings and pronunciations across different cultures and regions.

One of the earliest known references to the name can be found in ancient Hindu scriptures, such as the Vedas and the Upanishads, where it was often used to describe the beauty and rarity of pearls. The name gained popularity in India and was later adopted by other cultures through trade and cultural exchanges.

In ancient Greece, the name Ria was associated with the goddess Rhea, who was the mother of the Olympian gods in Greek mythology. This connection may have contributed to the name's popularity in the region, as it was seen as a symbol of fertility and motherhood.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Ria. One of the earliest recorded examples is Ria Bharadvaja, an Indian philosopher and scholar who lived in the 6th century BCE and is known for her contributions to the field of linguistics.

In the 12th century, Ria of Barcelona, a Catalan noblewoman, played a significant role in the political and cultural life of the Iberian Peninsula during the Reconquista period.

During the Renaissance era, Ria Fede, an Italian painter and miniaturist, gained recognition for her exceptional skills in portraiture and illuminated manuscripts (born around 1490).

In the 19th century, Ria Bongo, a Cameroonian queen and ruler of the Bongo people, was revered for her leadership and efforts to preserve her people's cultural traditions (born around 1825).

More recently, Ria Guardino, an American actress and singer, achieved fame for her roles in various Broadway productions and Hollywood films during the mid-20th century (born in 1920, died in 1995).