Engagement and wedding rings are typically worn on the right
or left ring finger, but ring styles and customs vary. Discover the
distinctions between engagement ring and wedding ring traditions.
Engagement Ring vs. Wedding Ring
In many Western traditions, engagement rings and wedding
bands represent a couple's eternal love, which is symbolized by the rings'
circular shape. Such customs date back to ancient Egypt, when Egyptians
professed their love for loved ones by giving them rings made of woven reeds.
There are a few distinctions between wedding and engagement rings:
Meaning: To symbolize commitment, one partner will offer an
engagement ring as part of a marriage proposal or early in the engagement.
Engagement rings are traditionally given to brides-to-be, but people of all
genders can and do propose. Wedding bands, like other symbols of love, are
given to couples as part of the wedding ceremony.
Payment: Traditionally, each person or each person's family
pays for the rings of the other partner. Today, however, many couples choose to
split the costs and involve both partners in the engagement ring selection
process.
Placement: The fourth finger of the left or right hand is
the wedding ring finger in Western culture. The wedding and engagement rings
are worn together on the fourth finger, or the wedding band is worn alone.
Wedding rings are worn first, followed by the engagement ring. If the rings are
not easily stackable, people may wear them on different hands. In addition,
widows and widowers may wear their engagement or wedding rings on the opposite
hand after the death of their partner.
Price: Engagement rings are generally more expensive than
wedding rings. Classic, solitaire-style rings with a center stone, such as a
natural or lab-grown diamond, are the most traditional engagement rings. In search
of more unique engagement rings, modern couples may get creative with their
stone, setting, band style, and accessory gemstones. Wedding rings, also known
as wedding bands, are typically less ornate than engagement rings and do not
include a center diamond. Wedding bands are typically made of plain metal or
have a pavé setting of diamonds or gemstones. Personal preference is important
when choosing gemstones and precious metals, and jewelers stock a wide range of
rings and center stones.
Do You Need Both an Engagement and Wedding Ring?
Every couple decides how they want to purchase and wear
their wedding and engagement rings. Given the high cost of wedding jewelry,
some couples opt for a single, standout engagement ring rather than a set, or
they wear passed-down family heirlooms instead. Others might buy a complete
wedding ring set so that all of their jewelry matches. The eternity band could
also be a watch, necklace, or other gift or piece of jewelry. Furthermore, each
couple makes their own decisions regarding how to propose and then profess
their love at their wedding.
How to Wear Your Engagement and Wedding Rings
It is entirely up to you how you wear your engagement and
wedding rings. The wedding ring is traditionally placed on the fourth finger of
the right or left hand, followed by the engagement ring. You may also choose
not to wear an engagement ring due to its sensitivity and keep it as an
heirloom. After your wedding, you can switch your engagement ring to your right
hand to have a ring on each hand. These decisions can be influenced by family
traditions, religious customs, and personal preferences.
Do You Wear Your Engagement Ring on Your Wedding Day?
Before the wedding, many brides switch their engagement ring
from left to right hand. They return their engagement ring to the fourth finger
on their left hand after receiving their wedding band during the ring exchange.
The wedding band is placed on the left ring finger, closest to the heart,
followed by the engagement ring. If you prefer to wear your wedding band on
your right hand rather than your left, follow the opposite rules.
5 Tips for Picking Out Wedding Bands
When the big day arrives, both partners can wear wedding
bands. Follow these guidelines to find the best ones:
1. Give yourself enough time. To allow for sizing and
shipping, look for wedding bands three to four months before the wedding.
2. Define a budget. Wedding jewelry can be costly, and
knowing how much you can spend from your wedding budget on rings will determine
the type of wedding band you purchase.
3. Do online research. There are numerous images of
wedding band styles available on the internet. White, rose, and yellow gold are
popular metals for wedding rings. Investigate a wide range of options and costs
to determine which type of band is best for you. You might want your band to
match your engagement ring, or you might want something completely different.
Before you go shopping, educate yourself so that you can make an informed decision.
4. Get details from the jeweler. Before taking
measurements and discussing costs, the jeweler will tell you everything you
need to know about the potential bands. If discounts are available, inquire
about them so you can save money on these expensive pieces.
5. Go to a physical store. While online research is
useful for understanding the market, you should ultimately shop in a physical
store. You should inspect the band with your own eyes and try it on for size.
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