Engagement Rings Vs Wedding Rings
What’s the Difference Between Engagement Rings and Wedding Rings?
For centuries, couples have exchanged rings as a symbol of love and commitment. In ancient Egypt, the circle represented eternity, making rings a sign of everlasting union. The Romans and Greeks also embraced this tradition, where rings symbolized fidelity and lifelong devotion.
Today, both engagement rings and wedding rings remain cherished symbols, available in countless designs, yet their purpose is still the same.
So, what sets them apart? Engagement rings mark the promise of marriage and are worn during the engagement period. In contrast, wedding bands are exchanged during the ceremony itself, worn by both partners as a daily reminder of their vows.
With so many options available, choosing the right wedding jewellery can feel overwhelming. This guide will walk you through what each ring represents, whether you really need both, and the best ways to wear them together.
What is an Engagement Ring?
An engagement ring signifies the promise of a lifelong partnership. Traditionally worn on the left hand, it is later paired with the wedding band after the ceremony. This ring tells the world that a wedding is on the horizon.
The tradition dates back to Roman times, where brides-to-be were given two rings—an iron one for home and a gold one for public appearances. The custom of wearing it on the fourth finger of the left hand stems from the belief that this finger’s vein led directly to the heart.
The diamond engagement ring we know today became popular in 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria proposed with one to Mary of Burgundy. Over time, diamonds became the ultimate symbol of love—particularly after De Beers’ famous campaign in the 1940s reignited their demand.
Modern engagement rings come in many forms: classic solitaire diamonds, intricate band designs, or gemstone pieces like Princess Diana’s iconic sapphire or Jackie Kennedy’s emerald and diamond ring. Some even choose an eternity ring as an engagement ring, showing that there’s no strict rule about having a central stone.
What is a Wedding Ring?
Wedding rings have always symbolized unity and infinity. Exchanged during the wedding ceremony, they are typically simpler than engagement rings but equally meaningful.
Historically, they were made from braided reeds or hemp in ancient Egypt, later evolving into metal bands. In the 16th and 17th centuries, couples sometimes used a “gimmel ring,” made of two interlocking bands worn separately during engagement and joined together at the wedding.
Today, most couples choose plain gold or platinum wedding bands, though options like steel, silicone, and engraved designs are increasingly popular. Some prefer diamond-accented bands, while others choose minimalist plain rings.
To ensure a perfect fit, many opt for bridal sets—matching engagement and wedding rings designed to complement each other. However, this can limit how the rings look when worn separately. On the wedding day, tradition says the wedding ring should be placed first on the finger, closer to the heart, followed by the engagement ring.
Do You Need Both?
Owning both an engagement ring and a wedding band is traditional, but it’s ultimately your choice. Some couples prefer the timeless, sparkling combination of two rings, while others choose only one for comfort, practicality, or budget reasons.
Wearing just a wedding band is common for those with active lifestyles, while others may only wear their engagement ring for special occasions. Opting for a single ring also removes the challenge of finding two perfectly matching designs.
How to Wear Them
In Western culture, both rings are typically worn on the left hand’s fourth finger. After the wedding, the wedding band sits closest to the heart, with the engagement ring placed above it.
If you later add an eternity ring, often gifted after an anniversary or the birth of a child, it usually goes on the same finger, sitting above the engagement ring. However, wearing three rings can feel uncomfortable, so many choose to wear the eternity ring on the right hand instead.
Check out our collection of Wedding & Engagement Rings.