Why Wedding Rings Matter: A Symbol Of Commitment

There is no requirement to have both an engagement ring and a wedding ring. It is perfectly acceptable to have just one ring to symbolise your marital status. This could be a matter of personal preference, comfort, simplicity, or budget. Some people may choose to wear their engagement ring only on special occasions, or not at all, due to the risk of losing or damaging it.

Engagement rings are traditionally given at proposal, while wedding rings are exchanged at the wedding ceremony

The engagement ring is traditionally given at the proposal, whereas the wedding ring is exchanged at the wedding ceremony.

Engagement rings are typically given to the recipient as part of a proposal and are a symbol of a promise to marry. They usually feature a dominant centre stone, which may be complemented by smaller stones. The person who is proposed to will usually wear the engagement ring on their left hand.

Wedding rings, on the other hand, are traditionally exchanged at the wedding ceremony and are a symbol of unity and marriage. They are usually simpler in design, such as a classic band, and significantly less expensive than engagement rings. Wedding rings are often designed to complement the engagement ring and are traditionally worn on the same finger.

There is no requirement to have both an engagement and a wedding ring. Some people may prefer the simplicity of just one ring, while others may have budgetary constraints. Ultimately, the decision to have one or both rings is a personal preference, and there are no firm rules that must be followed.

In some cultures, it is believed that a vein in the fourth finger of the left hand leads directly to the heart, making it the most symbolic finger to wear an engagement or wedding ring on.

Wedding rings are usually simpler and less expensive

Wedding rings are typically less expensive than engagement rings. According to The Knot's 2023 Jewelry and Engagement Study, the average cost of a wedding ring was $1,000, while the average cost of an engagement ring was $5,500. Wedding rings are usually simpler in design, often featuring a plain metal band or a diamond-encrusted eternity band. They are given or exchanged during the wedding ceremony and are meant to be worn by both partners as a symbol of their marriage.

The simplicity of wedding rings can be attributed to their traditional purpose. As a symbol of unity and marriage, wedding rings are often designed to be more understated and elegant. They are meant to complement the more elaborate and dominant engagement ring. The focus is on the commitment and bond between the couple rather than the ring's intricate details.

Wedding rings are also more affordable because they usually have a lower carat weight than engagement rings. The total carat weight of a wedding ring, even with inlaid diamonds or gemstones, is generally less than that of an engagement ring. This makes wedding rings a more budget-friendly option for couples who want to allocate their funds towards a single, standout engagement ring or other wedding expenses.

Additionally, wedding rings are often chosen to match the engagement ring, which can drive up the cost. Some couples opt for matching sets, also known as bridal sets, to ensure that the metal colours match and that the rings fit together seamlessly. However, this is not a requirement, and some couples may choose to mix and match their wedding and engagement rings to create a unique look.

Ultimately, the decision to purchase a wedding ring that is simpler and less expensive depends on personal preference and budget. Couples can choose to follow traditions or create their own unique style. The most important aspect is selecting rings that match their unique style and taste, allowing them to own jewellery they will want to wear for a lifetime.

You can wear your wedding ring and engagement ring on separate hands

There are many different ways to wear your wedding and engagement rings, and it is entirely up to you how you choose to wear them. Some people prefer to wear both rings on the same finger, while others opt for wearing them on separate hands.

Wearing your engagement and wedding rings on separate hands can be a practical solution if you have been unable to find a wedding band that complements your engagement ring. It can also be a good option if you prefer the look of your engagement ring on its own, or if you simply don't like the feel of wearing multiple rings on one finger. Additionally, wearing your rings on separate hands can be a great way to showcase both rings, especially if they are unique or elaborate designs.

In some cultures and religions, it is traditional to wear the wedding and engagement rings on separate hands. For example, in Brazil, Germany, and Spain, couples often wear their engagement ring on one hand and then move it to the other hand during the wedding ceremony. In other countries, such as Turkey and some parts of Eastern Europe, it is common to wear the engagement ring on the left hand and the wedding band on the right. Ultimately, how you choose to wear your rings can be influenced by cultural and religious traditions, as well as your personal preferences and style.

If you decide to wear your wedding and engagement rings on separate hands, you can also experiment with different combinations. For example, you can try wearing your engagement ring on your left hand and your wedding band on your right, or vice versa. You can also try stacking your rings in different orders to see what feels and looks best to you.

Remember, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to wearing your wedding and engagement rings. You can choose to wear them in a way that reflects your personal style and preferences. Whether you wear them on the same hand or separate hands, the most important thing is that your rings have enduring meaning and significance for you.

You can use your engagement ring as your wedding ring

You can absolutely use your engagement ring as your wedding ring. In fact, there are no hard and fast rules about what kind of engagement or wedding jewellery you have to have.

Some people choose to wear just one ring to symbolise their marital status, whether that's an engagement ring or a wedding band. This could be due to their career or lifestyle, or simply because they appreciate the simplicity of a single ring.

There are several benefits to opting for a single ring. Firstly, it can be more comfortable and less obtrusive than wearing two rings. Secondly, it's one less ring to worry about losing. Thirdly, you don't have to be concerned about the rings matching. Finally, you can invest the money you save into a single, standout ring.

If you're unsure about whether to wear both an engagement and wedding ring, you could wear just your engagement ring for a few months before the wedding. This will help you decide if you'd like to add a wedding band after the big day.

If you do decide to stick with your engagement ring, it's worth noting that many people choose to remove it during certain activities, such as working out, playing sports, travelling, or swimming, to avoid damage or loss. In these instances, you might consider wearing a plain band that you can wear instead of your engagement ring.

You can buy a matching set or choose two different styles

There is no requirement to buy a matching set of wedding rings and engagement rings. You can choose to buy two different styles for each. This is because there are no hard and fast rules about what kind of engagement or wedding jewellery you should have. It is a matter of personal preference.

The wedding band is usually a simpler ring, such as a classic metal band or one with small diamonds. It is given or exchanged at the wedding ceremony and is traditionally worn by both partners. Wedding bands are usually less elaborate and significantly less expensive than wedding rings.

Engagement rings, on the other hand, are usually given at or close to the time of the proposal. They typically have a centre stone, usually a diamond, and can have additional smaller stones in the setting. Engagement rings are more expensive than wedding rings and can range in price.

If you are unsure about whether you want to wear both rings, you can wear your engagement ring for a few months before choosing a wedding band. This will allow you to decide if you would like to wear one or two pieces after the wedding.

If you do decide to wear both rings, tradition dictates that you wear your engagement ring and wedding ring together on the fourth finger of your left hand, with the wedding ring placed closest to the hand as it is closer to the heart.

Frequently asked questions