Eternity Rings: Wedding Ring Alternative For Timeless Style

An eternity ring is a woman's ring that has precious stones, usually diamonds, that go all the way around the band. They are given to commemorate a special milestone in a relationship, such as a wedding anniversary. A wedding band, on the other hand, is any ring exchanged during the wedding ceremony and worn long-term to symbolise marriage. While eternity rings are often given years into a marriage, they can also be exchanged during the wedding vows. So, can an eternity ring be used as a wedding ring?

The history of eternity rings

Eternity rings, also known as infinity rings, are traditionally a woman's ring. They are usually made up of a band of precious metal, most often gold, set with a continuous line of identically cut gemstones, most commonly diamonds. The continuous line of stones symbolises never-ending love, and the circle shape of the ring represents eternity. The idea of an "eternal" piece of jewellery is believed to have originated with the ancient Egyptians, as early as 2000-1800 BC, when the circle was a powerful symbol.

Eternity rings are often given to mark a special occasion in a relationship, such as a significant anniversary (especially after five years of marriage), a wedding day, the birth of a child, or an important birthday. They are typically given by a spouse to their wife, but can also be exchanged during wedding vows. The concept of a diamond eternity ring was created in the 1960s by diamond merchant De Beers, who marketed the rings to older, married women.

While full eternity rings have diamonds or gems set all around the band, half eternity rings have stones only on the top half or face of the band, making them a more practical and comfortable option. Eternity rings are considered a romantic and thoughtful gift for a life partner, symbolising a lasting love and everything it can endure.

The difference between a half and full eternity ring

Yes, you can have an eternity ring as a wedding ring. An eternity ring is a continuous band of identically cut gemstones, usually diamonds, symbolising never-ending love.

Now, here is the difference between a half and a full eternity ring:

A full eternity ring is a ring band with diamonds or gemstones around the entire circle, giving the illusion of endless diamonds. The continuous line of diamonds or gemstones symbolises never-ending love. A full eternity ring is a befitting candidate for a wedding band. However, a full eternity ring is more expensive and cannot be resized.

A half eternity ring, on the other hand, has diamonds or gemstones only on the face of the band. A half eternity ring is more cost-effective, comfortable, and can be resized. However, it may spin and expose the bare metal.

Both full and half eternity rings are suitable for wedding bands. The choice depends on your preference and budget.

The pros and cons of using an eternity ring as a wedding ring

Eternity rings are a beautiful symbol of everlasting love and can be a unique choice for a wedding ring. While there is no rule against using an eternity ring as a wedding ring, there are some things to consider when making this decision. Here are some pros and cons of using an eternity ring as a wedding band:

Pros:

• Symbolism: Eternity rings represent eternal love with their continuous circle of identically cut gemstones, usually diamonds. This symbolism can add a deeper layer of meaning to your wedding ring choice.
• Design Options: Eternity rings come in various styles, including full and half eternity rings. Half eternity rings have gemstones only on the face of the band, making them more affordable and comfortable for everyday wear.
• Personal Expression: Your wedding ring is an opportunity to express your unique style. If you are drawn to the sparkle and symbolism of eternity rings, using one as your wedding band can be a way to showcase your personality.

Cons:

• Practicality: Traditional wedding bands are typically plain and polished, prioritizing comfort and practicality. Eternity rings, with their gemstone-encrusted bands, may be less comfortable and more cumbersome to wear daily.
• Durability: The delicate nature of eternity rings, with their continuous line of gemstones, may require a different level of upkeep and care. They might be more prone to damage and may not be as durable as a plain metal band.
• Resizing: Full eternity rings with gemstones all around the band may not lend themselves easily to adjustments. Resizing these rings can be complex and costly, as it may involve removing and resetting the gemstones.
• Cost: Eternity rings, especially full eternity rings with a hoop of gemstones, can be more expensive than a plain wedding band due to the additional gemstones and the craftsmanship required.

Ultimately, the decision to use an eternity ring as your wedding band depends on your personal preferences and style. While there are some considerations to keep in mind, don't let small practicalities deter you from choosing a ring that authentically expresses your commitment and love.

The order in which to wear your wedding, engagement and eternity rings

An eternity ring is a woman's ring that has a continuous band of precious metal—usually gold—set with identically cut gemstones that go all the way around the band. They are usually given by a spouse to their wife to commemorate a special milestone in a relationship, such as a wedding anniversary, or to mark a significant anniversary, typically after five years of marriage.

An eternity ring can be used as a wedding ring. Wedding bands are any rings exchanged during the wedding ceremony and worn long-term to symbolise marriage. They are usually plain, polished, and made of hard-wearing precious metal, like gold or platinum, for comfort, practicality, and longevity.

If you want to wear your wedding, engagement, and eternity rings together, tradition dictates that you should wear your wedding ring first, followed by your engagement ring, and then your eternity ring. These are usually worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, also known as the "ring" finger. However, some people prefer to wear the eternity ring on top of the wedding ring and still others choose to wear the eternity ring separately on the right hand, as wearing all three rings on one finger can feel like too much. Ultimately, it is up to the wearer to decide how to arrange their rings.

The meaning and symbolism of eternity rings

An eternity ring is a ring with diamonds or gemstones around all or most of the band. It is usually gifted on a special occasion, such as a wedding, anniversary, or the birth of a child. The circular shape of the ring represents eternity, with the gemstones symbolising strength, durability, and beauty. Together, the continuous line of identically cut gemstones symbolises never-ending love.

Eternity rings are also known as infinity rings and are usually given by a spouse to their wife on a significant anniversary, such as after five years of marriage. They can be worn on any finger, but they are typically worn on the ring finger, either alone or alongside an engagement ring.

The concept of the diamond eternity ring was created in the 1960s by diamond merchant De Beers. At the time, the prevailing fashion, particularly for engagement rings, was for them to be set with a single, large diamond. However, De Beers had a stockpile of small Soviet gems and so embarked on a campaign to promote jewellery containing a number of small diamonds, such as the eternity ring.

Eternity rings can be full or half eternity rings. Full eternity rings have diamonds or gems set all around the band, making them exquisite to look at and the most luxurious and sparkling rings available. However, the diamonds can catch on things, so the wearer must be careful. Half eternity rings have diamonds or gems only on the top half of the band, making them more practical and comfortable. They also allow for larger stones since the gems sit only on the top of the band.

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