If your partner surprises you with the perfect engagement ring, you might be wondering if you should add another ring to your fourth finger after you're married. What is the difference between an engagement ring and a wedding ring? And, you're probably wondering, if you love your engagement ring so much, do you need to add a wedding band, or can you continue to wear your engagement ring alone after the wedding? Let's answer this engagement ring vs. wedding ring etiquette question, once and for all.
Engagement Ring Versus Wedding Ring
Traditional engagement rings usually have a dominant stone, either standing alone or surrounded by additional smaller stones. Engagement rings are usually given as part of the proposal, or if not, in the early stages of the engagement. In contrast, a wedding ring is traditionally a plain metal band or a diamond-encrusted eternity band that you receive when you exchange your vows during the wedding ceremony and wear after that. Generally, there is a fairly significant price difference between an engagement ring and a wedding ring; Even if the wedding band is studded with diamonds or other gemstones, its total carat weight is usually less than the engagement ring.
How to Wear Your Engagement and Wedding Rings
Traditionally, you wear your engagement ring and wedding ring on the fourth finger of your left hand together. How to Stack Them Traditionally, you wear the wedding band inside the engagement ring so it's close to your heart. That being said, some brides choose to wear their engagement ring on one side and their wedding band on the other, especially if they are very versatile rings that cannot be stacked easily.
Do You Need Both?
In the end, it really comes down to personal preference. If you prefer the traditional look, then yes, of course. Whether you're adding an eternity band set with pavé diamonds or a plain metal band, Pair a wedding ring and engagement ring for a timeless and beautiful look. And a recent trend that shows no sign of abating is the formation of a ring stack of three (or more!) bands, often with mixed metal and styles. Of course, if you only want to wear one ring to symbolize both your engagement and your (future) married status, that's perfectly fine. Here are some good reasons why some brides choose to wear only one ring:
- Single rings can be more relaxed and less fussy than a wedding band and engagement ring combo—and can look absolutely stunning on their own.
- That's one less ring to worry about losing (which is especially important if you're a bit distracted).
- You also don't have to worry about matching the two rings perfectly; Sometimes it can be difficult to find a wedding band that pairs with your engagement ring if they are not purchased as a set.
- Funds that would normally be allocated to both an engagement ring and a wedding band can be invested in a single, standout ring.
Bottom line? There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing, designing, or wearing engagement and wedding rings. You can't wear one, two, three or more rings—just make sure the ring (or rings) you choose to symbolize your love and marriage will have lasting meaning for you for many years to come.
