Difference Between An Engagement Ring And Wedding Ring
— by Cullen Jewellery — Reading time 4 minutes
Engagement Rings vs Wedding Rings – What's the Deal?
To some this guide might be redundant, and to others who are thinking about the world of wedding jewellery for the first time – a welcome sight. Jewellery trends are becoming more ambiguous and stepping away from cookie cutter wedding sets, but still it’s important to understand the history and function of engagement rings and wedding rings. Have a read of our guide to the past and present of wedding rings.
Wedding ring vs engagement ring meaning
Traditionally a wedding ring set – an engagement ring and a wedding band – is worn by the bride, while a wedding band is worn alone by the groom. Wedding rings trace back to ancient Rome, associated with signifying a partnership or ownership – informative text from this time was limited, so it’s unclear as to which it was. What we can say for sure is the history of the exchanging of rings. History suggests ancient Egyptians or Romans began the fashion of exchanging rings during a marriage ceremony to signifying betrothal.
The difference between wedding bands and engagement rings is generally the designs. While engagement ring styles have evolved, a wedding band is generally more simple, like a plain band or with precious stones around it like our range of lab diamond wedding bands .
Wedding and engagement ring history
At the time when wedding rings were introduced, they were likely made from gold, ivory or another valuable material – but certainly did not include any precious stones. The first indication of stones being used in an engagement ring is in the 15th century when Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed to Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring. Now of course, an engagement ring with a diamond or precious stone in the centre is commonplace, but the evolution of the ring from the 15th century to now tells the story of the aesthetics at the time.
Diamond wedding rings increased in popularity during the Victorian Era as more ornate jewellery was favoured during this period. Similarly during the Art Deco period, rings with a similar Art Deco style were popularised. In the present day, ‘quiet-luxury’ aesthetics have popularised simple engagement rings with a single centre-stone. That said, with the future of fashion evolving into a more individualised aesthetic, wedding rings are likely to become more personal in the future.
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Which order to wear wedding rings?
The answer to this question is dependent on a few factors. Firstly, everything is down to personal preference and so you should always go with the option that feels comfortable to you. Traditionally however the order these things are worn is the wedding band first, followed by the engagement ring – symbolising that the wedding band is closer to your heart.
Some brides are opting for multiple wedding bands, with their engagement ring sandwiched between, or are choosing for multiple stacking rings , or skipping the engagement ring altogether – so truly this option is a personal preference.
Can you wear a wedding band as an engagement ring?
As changing winds of the industry suggest, people are now approaching wedding rings in their own way, and for many brides this could mean abandoning the engagement ring altogether. There is a growing trend of couples having matching wedding bands – or designing custom rings together as another component of the wedding planning, rather than rings being a surprise. It follows the general approach to relationships today, with couples taking steps together with open communication.
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Summary
It’s clear to see that there are no set rules for wedding rings or engagement rings. Whether you like something popular, or are leaning towards a custom ring , or whether having an eco-conscious centre stone is important to you – there is something for everyone. To discuss wedding bands and engagement rings in more detail – make an appointment with one of our client advisors here .
