What is the difference between an engagement ring and wedding ring?
Author: Laura B
Author: Laura B
Bridal jewelry is a generic term that describes the ring worn by groom and the two main rings worn by the bride, the engagement ring and the wedding ring. Today there is a lot more flexibility and individuality in what constitutes an engagement ring and a wedding ring, but there are still some general rules that separate the two. An engagement ring features a prominent center stone. Traditionally that stone is a diamond, although colored precious stones like rubies, emeralds, sapphires and tanzanite have gained in popularity as center stones for engagement rings. Colored center stones are not new to engagement rings- garnet and ruby rings were widely used to mark engagements in Victorian times. The center stone of engagement rings are either larger or set more prominently than any other stones in the ring. Solitaire rings, where the center diamond is the only stone in the ring and is set high above a solid platinum or gold band, are what most people think of when they envision an engagement ring. However, low set diamonds or three-stone rings are not uncommon choices. Some very contemporary engagement rings even feature diamonds or colored stones set flush into a thicker band. Claddagh rings, a traditional Irish design, are also sometimes used as engagement rings. Most women receive a ring for their engagement, though some women choose to mark their engagement with a pendant or other piece of jewelry instead. Any ring worn on the left hand ring finger of an unmarried woman can safely be assumed to be an engagement ring, no matter how unconventional it is. Wedding rings are traditionally solid gold or platinum bands that can be plain or patterned. Other metals like titanium have become popular choices as well, particularly for mens wedding rings. Mens wedding bands do not usually contain stones, but some men do wear wedding bands that incorporate diamonds. Couples either choose matching rings or a ring that compliments her engagement ring for her and a band in a similar metal or style for him. Many modern women choose wedding bands that contain diamonds or colored stones, in designs that compliment their engagement ring. The stones in a wedding band are typically smaller, so as to not take away from the engagement ring and its center stone. Eternity rings, which are a continuous band of diamonds, are an example of this. Some women choose an enhancer as their wedding band. An enhancer is meant to fit on or around a diamond solitaire to form a one-piece look. There are ready made enhancers available, or one can be custom made to fit with a particular engagement ring. After the wedding, many brides choose to have their engagement ring and enhancer soldered together to create one ring. Most brides wear their wedding rings alone for daily wear or together with their engagement ring on the same ring finger. Others choose to wear their wedding ring on their left hand ring finger and their engagement ring on their right hand ring finger, particularly if both rings have thicker bands.About the Author:
Laura is a freelance jewelry writer focusing on many different jewelry topics including engagement rings, eternity rings and wedding rings.