Wedding rings are traditionally exchanged at the wedding ceremony and are a symbol of the official bond of marriage. They are usually simpler in design, such as a plain band or a band with small diamonds. Engagement rings, on the other hand, are usually given at the time of the proposal and tend to be more intricate, often featuring a central diamond or gemstone. While these are the traditional styles, couples today are free to choose any style of ring they like and can mix and match colours and designs.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Given at | Proposal or when a couple decides to get married |
Exchanged at | Wedding ceremony |
Symbolises | Promise of marriage, devotion, commitment, official bond of marriage, eternal love and union |
Design | Intricate, with a centre stone, usually a diamond |
Plain, simple metal ring, fewer embellishments, smaller stones | |
Wear | On the fourth finger of the left hand, with the wedding band inside |
Metal | Platinum, gold, rose gold, white gold, yellow gold |
What You'll Learn
Wedding rings don't have to match engagement rings
Some people prefer to wear their wedding ring on their left hand and their engagement ring on their right hand, while others stack them together on the same finger. There is no right or wrong answer, and you can choose whatever combination of rings stands as a symbol of love and your union.
If you like the traditional look, you might prefer to wear both an engagement ring and a wedding band. This pairing is a timeless and beautiful look and a public declaration that you're married. However, it can be tricky to find a wedding band that pairs well with your engagement ring if they're not purchased as a set.
If you opt for a single ring to symbolize both your engagement and married status, you can invest in a single, standout ring. A single ring can also be more comfortable and less obtrusive than wearing two rings. It's also one less thing to worry about losing!
Ultimately, the decision of whether to wear matching wedding and engagement rings is completely up to you and your personal preferences.
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Wedding rings are exchanged during the wedding ceremony
The wedding ring is typically exchanged during a part of the ceremony called the "ring exchange". This usually takes place after the couple has recited their vows to one another. The ring exchange is a symbolic moment where the couple places the ring on each other's finger, officially sealing their marriage. The ring exchange is often followed by a kiss, symbolising their unity and love.
There is no requirement for wedding rings to match or be the same style. Couples can choose to have their wedding bands match, or they may prefer to express their individual tastes. It is also not necessary for both partners to have a wedding ring, though it is a well-loved tradition.
The wedding ring is usually added to the same finger as the engagement ring, with the wedding band placed first so it is closer to the heart, and the engagement ring following on the outside. Some brides choose to wear their engagement ring on their right hand during the ceremony, making it easier to slip the wedding band onto the left hand.
Wedding rings can be made from a variety of materials, including platinum, rose gold, white gold, and yellow gold. It is important that the metal of the wedding ring matches the engagement ring in hardness to prevent scratching. For example, platinum is harder than gold, so pairing these metals is not recommended.
The wedding ring is a symbol of everlasting love and devotion, and wearing it is a daily reminder of the commitment made during the wedding ceremony.
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Wedding rings are simpler in design
Wedding rings are often simpler in design compared to engagement rings. They are usually exchanged during the wedding ceremony as a symbol of the union of marriage. Wedding rings are typically a band without any large stones or a centrepiece gemstone. They can be simple, such as a plain band of metal, or more intricate with metal details like milgrain and featuring pavé or channel-set diamonds.
The simplicity of a wedding ring is a matter of personal preference and can be influenced by cultural traditions. In most cultures, the wedding ring and engagement ring are worn together on the "ring finger" of the left hand, which is believed to have originated in Egypt. The plain design of a wedding band may be chosen to ensure it sits nicely alongside the engagement ring without any unnecessary rubbing or scratching of metal by stones.
The circular shape of wedding rings symbolises infinity, with no beginning or end, representing eternal and endless love. The centre hole is seen as a path to the future. This symbolism is more important than the design of the ring, and a simple band can be a powerful symbol of commitment and love.
While engagement rings often feature a dominant stone, wedding rings are more understated, focusing on the meaning and sentiment behind the ring rather than its flashiness. The simplicity of a wedding ring can also be a practical choice, as a plainer design may be more comfortable and less obtrusive to wear every day. It may also be a more affordable option, with less focus on large diamonds or gemstones, and the funds that would be spent on an elaborate ring can be invested in a single, standout engagement ring.
Ultimately, the design of a wedding ring is a personal choice, and there are no right or wrong answers. Whether simple or intricate, a wedding ring is a symbol of love and commitment, and it is important to choose a ring that will be cherished for a lifetime.
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Wedding rings are less expensive
Wedding rings are traditionally a simple band of metal, and while they can be more intricate with metal details and diamonds, they are still generally less expensive than engagement rings.
The wedding ring is usually exchanged at the wedding ceremony as a symbol of the union of marriage. It is often a plain metal band or a diamond-encrusted eternity band. Wedding rings are typically simpler in style than engagement rings, which traditionally feature a dominant stone. Even if a wedding band has diamonds or other gemstones, its total carat weight is generally less than that of an engagement ring, making it more affordable.
The focus on simplicity and the absence of large stones or centrepiece gemstones contribute to the lower cost of wedding rings. Couples may opt for matching wedding bands or choose bands that reflect their individual tastes. Some couples may also decide to forgo the engagement ring and allocate their budget to a single, standout wedding ring.
Ultimately, the choice of wedding rings is a personal decision, and there are no right or wrong answers. Couples should select rings that symbolise their love and commitment while considering their budget and preferences.
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Wedding rings are worn closest to the heart
Wedding rings are traditionally worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, also known as the "ring finger". This custom is believed to have originated with the Ancient Romans, who held the belief that this particular finger contained a vein, the Vena Amoris or "vein of love", that ran directly to the heart. By placing a ring on this finger, they symbolically connected two hearts, solidifying their union founded in love.
While modern anatomical understanding has disproven the existence of this singular vein, the tradition persists, especially in Western cultures, as a symbol of everlasting love and commitment. The wedding ring is typically placed directly on the finger during the wedding ceremony, with the engagement ring stacked on top of it afterward. This arrangement ensures that the wedding band remains closest to the heart, reinforcing its significance in the relationship.
Some couples choose to solder or weld their wedding and engagement rings together, creating a unified piece of jewellery that symbolises their marital bond. Others opt for unique arrangements, such as wearing the wedding ring on top of the engagement ring or on separate fingers, reflecting their personal preferences and cultural backgrounds. Ultimately, the way a couple chooses to wear their wedding rings is a personal decision that reflects their love and commitment to each other.
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Frequently asked questions
No, there are no rules to follow when it comes to choosing wedding rings. You can mix and match colours and designs. However, if you want your rings to remain scratch-free, it's best to pair rings with the same or similar levels of hardness. For example, gold and silver can be paired together, but gold and platinum cannot.
No, it's not necessary to wear both rings. It's up to personal preference. Some people choose to wear their wedding ring on its own, or to add additional bands to create a unique stack.
No, you can wear your wedding ring on any finger you like. Traditionally, the wedding ring is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, as it was once believed that this finger had a vein connected to the heart. But you can choose to wear your rings however you like.