The difference between an engagement ring and a wedding ring
A client I was speaking with on the phone a few moments ago, asked me “what is the difference between an engagement ring and a wedding ring?” Essentially, he wanted to know whether it was really necessary to purchase both an engagement ring and a wedding ring. It seemed to him that it makes more sense to purchase a single wedding ring, as opposed to an engagement ring and a wedding ring. Especially since the engagement ring and wedding rings are often soldered together after the wedding to keep them from spinning in different directions on the finger. This of course is a valid point, however it flies in the face of tradition.
What is an Engagement Ring?
An engagement ring is the traditional symbol of commitment presented to a woman at the time the marriage proposal occurs. The ring is an act of betrothal, or in other words, a promise to wed. The engagement ring may be worn by the intended bride upon her acceptance of the marriage proposal. The ring indicates her commitment to her partner, and says to all the world that she is taken.
Engagement rings vary in complexity and price. The traditional diamond solitaire engagement ring consisting of a narrow band and either four or six prongs that hold a single diamond in-place is the classic engagement ring. While diamonds have become the traditional gemstone for engagement purposes, some people prefer colored gems like sapphire or ruby.
In the United States, engagement rings are worn on the third finger of the left hand. That is the finger next to the pinky, as indicated on the picture above. One of my friends is infamous for proposing to his girlfriend and trying to place the ring on her right hand.
What is a Wedding Ring?
Couple’s exchange wedding rings or wedding bands during the marriage ceremony. The rings can take the form of a simple band of gold, platinum, or some other type of metal, or can be more elaborate like this half-moon diamond eternity ring by Brian Gavin. It is traditional for both partners to present a wedding ring to their partner during the ceremony. Once again, the rings are worn on the third finger of the left hand. Women will wear their engagement ring and wedding ring together on the same finger after the ceremony. Some people like to solder their rings together, while other people prefer that the rings be unsoldered so they can be worn separately.
Current Trends in Engagement vs Wedding Rings:
Halo settings that accent the center stone of the engagement ring with a halo of accent diamonds are extremely popular at the moment. Brides like to wear them accented by diamond anniversary or eternity rings. The majority of people are not soldering their rings together, so that they can mix and match diamond anniversary and colored gem rings alongside their wedding set.
Many of our clients are electing to buy traditional wedding bands of gold or platinum for the ceremony. They continue to wear these rings alongside their engagement ring, and change out the diamond or colored gem anniversary bands to suit their mood.
