After a couple of years on a downward trend, engagements are on the rise again! More and more couples are ready to marry after putting plans and dating on hold for the pandemic.
And that means more beautiful jewelry on the fingers of people all around the world! Getting a ring is something so many people dream about long before they even meet their partner. It's a tradition that has spanned decades and a great way to make your love public.
But many get confused about the difference between a wedding band vs engagement ring. How are they different? Do I need both? Which hand wedding ring for females? Do men wear engagement rings? And we have all the answers to these and more!
Read on to find out everything you need to know about wedding rings!
The Symbolism of a Wedding Ring
No one knows when marriages started to happen. Basically, as long as people have been in existence, they have been committing to each other in this way.
Rings became a symbol of that commitment more than 3,000 years ago. The ring worn on a specific finger is an easy way to show your union to the world. Everyone who sees that piece of jewelry knows exactly what it means.
The ring also represents the longevity marriages hope to have. A ring has no beginning or end, it's one continual round forever. When two people decide to get married, the hope is that their love will be the same. They can look to their rings to remind them of that goal.
Purpose of the Rings
One of the biggest differences between an engagement ring and a wedding band is the purpose of the rings. Each is given at different times in the couple's relationship to mark the eras.
An engagement ring is typically given during the proposal. For many couples, it's the culmination of the whole event. One partner may say some meaningful words about their love and devotion. Then they'll present the engagement ring as they ask the other if they would like to get married.
These kinds of rings are often worn throughout the engagement period. And often forever after as well.
A wedding band, on the other hand, is usually given during the wedding ceremony. It's usually worn in addition to an engagement ring for those who have one. But can also be the first ring a partner wears as well.
Rings have always been a huge part of jewelry history. And the ones made for marriages have been some of the most popular.
Size of the Stones
For many couples, the kinds of wedding rings look very different from each other as well.
Engagement rings are often the ring that holds the larger stone. This is often a diamond but can be any other kind of gemstone or birthstone that's preferred. There is usually one featured stone that is larger than the rest. Sometimes there are smaller stones surrounding and sometimes there is not.
These rings come in all different shapes and sizes to fit the style of the wearer. This is why engagement ring costs are usually much higher.
A wedding band can also have stones but usually, they are much smaller and lay flat in one level. Many also choose to have no stones on their band for a simpler look with more contrast.
Detail Work Involved
Another distinction between the two rings is that a wedding band often has more details. Often because they aren't full of all of the bright, shiny stones an engagement ring is.
Many couples choose to go the sentimental route with this ring and add personal touches.
This could be an engraving of their anniversary dates, a meaningful saying, or another symbol of their relationship. Whatever the case may be, this kind of application is much more common on wedding bands.
Who Wears the Rings
Traditionally, engagement rings have been worn by the partner who didn't propose. But things have been changing and some couples choose to each have a ring during this time.
Men's wedding band vs engagement ring has been a big conversation and change in the industry. More and more men are choosing to take part in this tradition and put their own twist on the styles. They often have a similar vibe to a traditional ring situation with a modern, personal twist.
Similarities Between the Styles
While there are a lot of differences between an engagement ring and a wedding band. There are also a lot of similarities as well. They have been paired together for many, many years!
Most people choose to have their two rings coordinated so they can be worn together as a set.
This means they usually have the same underlying tone. They might have different stones but be made of the same base material (gold, silver, etc.). If one is more modern in style, the other probably is too. They should be different enough to distinguish there are two rings. But similar enough to look great together.
Choosing the Best Rings
Choosing your engagement ring and wedding band can feel like a very big choice. And that makes sense, best case scenario, you're wearing them for the rest of your life! Our best advice is to take your time to really see what you like and what you don't in rings.
There are so many options available that you will definitely be able to find something that speaks to you. Try on many options before making your final choice!
Getting married is one of life's biggest moments. There are so many amazing celebrations to have and traditions to uphold. And that includes getting some kind of symbol of your new union!
A ring has such a special meaning for many couples. It might just be something you wear for the rest of your life, so the choice is a big one.
Many couples have a hard time deciding between a wedding band vs engagement ring or both. And there's no right answer. Whatever works for you is the best choice.
