Even though there are a vast variety of styles, colors, and sizes when it comes to contemporary engagement rings and wedding rings, their traditional purpose remains the same today.
What precisely is the difference between them? An engagement ring signifies a promise of marriage and is typically worn during the engagement. A wedding band is exchanged by the bride and groom during the wedding ceremony, representing a commitment to the wedding vows and each other.
There’s a lot of customary design blended with more contemporary styles that make up today’s selection of engagement rings and wedding rings. While what you decide to do should be what feels right to you, here’s some information that may eliminate any confusion regarding these beautiful symbols of devotion and love.
What is an Engagement Ring?
An engagement ring is usually given to a woman at a marriage proposal. After accepting the proposal, the ring is put on the 4th finger of her left hand.
Traditional engagement rings have one dominant stone set in various band styles. Contemporary engagement rings feature two or three stones, cluster rings, as well as bands that are designed like wedding bands.
What is a Wedding Ring?
A wedding ring (or wedding band) is typically exchanged between the bride and the groom at the wedding ceremony, symbolizing a marriage union. For the bride, she usually wears both rings together, frequently as a bridal set. Unlike engagement rings, which have a huge carat, wedding rings are a simple band without a large or centerpiece stone.
However, modern wedding rings are customized to represent the unique style of the couple. Today’s brides are wearing their engagement ring and wedding ring on different fingers or stacked with another ring.
The band on a wedding ring can be just metal or detailed metal such as pavé or milgrain and contains channel set diamonds or gemstones.
How To Wear an Engagement Ring and a Wedding Ring
In Western culture, engagement rings are worn on the 4th finger on the left hand. After marriage, the wedding ring is put on the finger first, then the engagement ring sits on top of it.
Sometimes an eternity ring is worn after the birth of the first child. Traditionally, this ring is worn on the same finger as the wedding ring, placed on top of the engagement ring. However, this can be uncomfortable. Another way to wear an eternity ring is on the 4th finger of the right hand.
Unique Engagement Rings for Women
Wearing both an engagement ring and a wedding ring or band eventually is all about personal preference. While custom says you should have both, there’s nothing to stop you from just having one or the other if that’s your preference.
Our collection of unique engagement rings for women, designed by Kate, encompasses distinct, one-of-a-kind jewelry that tells your loved one that she’s someone very special. We handcraft our alternative engagement rings using reclaimed or ethically sourced diamonds and other gemstones that have been cleverly placed in the pieces, showcasing the style and artistic appeal that has made Kate Maller a top designer of unique engagement rings.