For many couples, the journey to marriage begins with the exchange of rings – an engagement ring and a wedding ring. These two pieces of jewelry hold significant symbolism and are cherished for a lifetime. The process of choosing the perfect ring can be both exciting and overwhelming as they represent the commitment and love shared between two individuals. In this guide, we will delve into the difference between wedding and engagement rings, helping you choose the perfect ring with ease.
What Is an Engagement Ring?
An engagement ring is a symbol of love and promise, traditionally given by one partner to the other at the time of a marriage proposal. Wondering engagement ring on which hand? Well, it is worn on the ring finger (fourth finger) of the left hand, representing the promise and intention of marriage.
The design of an engagement ring typically features a precious gemstone, most commonly a diamond, set in a band of precious metal such as gold or platinum. In keeping with engagement ring trends, colored gemstones are now giving diamonds a run for their money as more couples opt for trendy colored gemstone rings. Sapphire, ruby, aquamarine, emerald and opal are all popular picks thanks to their enchanting hue and special symbolism.
You may have heard about the engagement ring cost rule that says you ought to spend three months’ salary on the engagement ring. We’re happy to bust that myth and tell you it’s not necessary! So, if you’ve been thinking about how much to spend on an engagement ring, it can be as much as your budget allows. No matter the price you have in mind, you can still find a great engagement ring that’ll make a wonderful keepsake and a token of your love.
Wondering what the best time to buy an engagement ring is? While there’s no right or wrong answer to this, this tip may come in handy. If you’re looking for discounts and offers, it’s best to shop for your ring during seasonal sales. Many couples also say that it takes around 3 to 6 months on an average to find the perfect engagement ring.
What Is a Wedding Ring?
Next up in the wedding ring vs. engagement ring debate is understanding all about the wedding ring. Unlike an engagement ring, a wedding ring is exchanged by both partners during the marriage ceremony and is worn as a sign of their union. This ring is often simpler in design compared to an engagement ring and is typically a band of metal, sometimes adorned with a small diamond or colored gemstone. Of course, this totally depends on the couple’s preference, with many more stylish and intricate options for wedding rings available.
Curious to know about the engagement ring finger vs. wedding ring finger? Wondering what finger does a ring go on? Well, the wedding ring finger is the fourth finger on your left hand (that’s right, exactly the same finger where your engagement ring sits).
Now that we’ve answered the question, is a wedding ring and engagement ring the same, it’s time to move on to another interesting topic. Join us as we dive into the exciting world of engagement and wedding ring styles.
Popular Engagement Ring Styles
If a dream engagement ring has been on your wishlist, grab your partner and check out some of the top styles for your token of love.
1. Solitaire
This one’s a classic! As the name suggests, a solitaire engagement ring features a solitary gemstone at the center of a metal band. This style highlights the sparkle and color of the singular gemstone and is perfect for brides-to-be who love timeless elegance.
2. Halo
The halo ring style features a center stone surrounded by a halo of gemstones, typically diamonds. This style is all about glamour, extravagance and making a statement. If you’re a royal enthusiast, you should know that Princess Diana’s iconic engagement ring featured a blue sapphire with a floral diamond halo. So, this style is certainly fit for royalty!
3. Two-Stone
If you love everything meaningful and symbolic, the two-stone style is perfect for you. This style, also known as ‘Toi Et Moi,’ stands for ‘you and me.’ It represents love and friendship and two hearts becoming one.
4. Three-Stone
Speaking of symbolism, a three-stone engagement ring represents the past, present and future of your relationship. It’s truly a beautiful way to celebrate and honor every phase of your life together.
5. Vintage-Inspired
One for the ages, vintage-inspired engagement rings are just swoon-worthy. Inspired by the designs of the past, these rings feature intricate details and are perfect for those who love that old-world aesthetic.
Besides these top styles, you could also opt for a bridal set. It features a matching engagement and wedding ring and will save you the time and hassle of shopping for your rings separately. Plus, they pair together like a charm.
Popular Wedding Ring Styles
Read on to find out about some of the top wedding ring styles so you can pick one that matches your vibe.
1. Wedding Band
When it comes to an engagement ring vs. a wedding band, a wedding band is typically a plain metal band. While the classic choice is gold, couples may also opt for platinum and silver. If you’re looking for a wedding band with a little more pizzazz, you can also choose a textured band. These bands may feature embossing, unique patterns, milgrain details and more.
2. Eternity
An eternity ring is the perfect symbol of your eternal love. This classic style features diamonds or colored gemstones going all around the metal band.
3. Half-Eternity
A modern take on the traditional eternity style, half-eternity rings feature diamonds or colored gemstones only half way around the band.
4. Infinity
If you’re all about wedding ring symbolism, an infinity ring is perfect. This intertwined or knotted ring design represents your infinite, unending love.
We hope we’ve answered all your queries on what’s the difference between a wedding ring and an engagement ring. When choosing an engagement versus wedding ring, it’s important to understand that both are ultimately a beautiful token of the loving bond you share with your S.O.
FAQs
1. What’s the difference between an engagement ring and a wedding ring?
The difference between an engagement ring and a wedding band or ring is simple. An engagement ring is given at the time of a proposal by one partner to the other. Wedding rings or bands are exchanged by both partners on their wedding day.
2. How do engagement rings and wedding rings typically differ in style?
The engagement and wedding ring difference is very clear when it comes to ring styles. Engagement rings are more detailed and intricate and typically feature diamonds and colored gems. Wedding rings are simpler, usually consisting of a plain metal band.
3. Do I need to have matching rings?
No, it totally depends on your personal preference. While it’s great to have a matching pair that fits just right together, you can always choose two completely different styles, gemstones and metal types for your engagement and wedding rings.
4. On which finger are engagement and wedding rings worn?
Engagement and wedding rings are both worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. This tradition began with the ancient Romans who believed that this finger had a vein that led directly to the heart.
