Engagement and Wedding rings are long known for being symbols of love and a promise of lifeline commitment. Their significance has been cherished by various cultures over the centuries. While engagement rings signify a proposal and intention to marry, wedding rings symbolize that two people are officially married, and are a testament of their love and deep connection to one another. 

The difference between an engagement ring v/s wedding ring is vast and has various meanings in many cultures. In Western cultures, they are worn on the left ring finger, due to the belief that the vein from that finger directly connects to the heart. In European culture, wedding rings are worn on the right-hand finger. 

Before we get into more details about the differences between engagement and wedding rings, let’s understand more about both these types of jewelry. 

What is an Engagement Ring?

An engagement ring is presented as a proposal for marriage and symbolizes an individual’s intention to wed. The tradition of exchanging engagement rings began in ancient Rome, where this was considered a binding contract between two people. 

Today, engagement rings with a central diamond have become popular choices. They are typically bigger than wedding rings and have elaborate designs along with a gemstone in the middle. An engagement proposal is also considered to be a big affair and is a moment cherished by many. 

Types of Engagement Rings

Finerock offers a wide range of engagement rings to choose from: 

• Solitaire Engagement Rings: These rings have a single, central gemstone, usually a diamond. They are classic, timeless and highlight the stone’s brilliance. This makes it a good choice for those who like elegance and simplicity. 

• Side Stones Engagement Rings: These rings are designed with smaller diamonds or gemstones along the band that enhance the bigger-sized center stone’s shine. They add sparkle and give a luxurious feel. 

• Halo Engagement Rings: In this design, the center stone has smaller diamonds surrounding it, which enhances the ring’s sparkle and makes for a glamorous, vintage design.

• Classic Engagement Rings: This is a traditional design, with plain or slightly embellished rings. The diamonds are generally set in the classic way: with prongs or bezels. It is ideal for those who like understated elegance. 

What is a Wedding Ring?

Wedding rings are usually exchanged during wedding ceremonies as a symbol of commitment and are worn by the couple after marriage. This tradition comes from the Ancient Egyptian times, where circles represented a bond for eternity. 

These rings have a simpler design, and their durability is more important. Some couples choose to match their wedding rings, while others like unique styles according to their preferences. 

Types of Wedding Rings

Finerock has a large variety of wedding rings, such as:

• Classic Wedding Rings: These simple rings are made out of gold, and often have simpler designs. They are classic and elegant. 

• Eternity Wedding Rings: This ring has a continuous row of diamonds or gemstones around the band, symbolizing everlasting love and commitment. They also give a brilliant and luxurious feel. 

• Stackable Wedding Rings: These rings can be worn with engagement rings as well as other bands, making them versatile in styling. They usually have a mix of diamond-studded and uniquely shaped rings. 

• Vintage Wedding Rings: This type of ring features antique designs along with intricate detailing, with unique artistry. Vintage rings have a historical charm and craftsmanship. 

• Men’s Wedding Rings: Men’s rings are broader and have simpler designs, generally made from either white gold, yellow gold or rose gold and are studded with smaller diamonds. 

Differences Between Engagement Rings and Wedding Rings

Which Ring is Worn on Which Finger?

Traditional Placement of Engagement and Wedding Rings: 

The Western culture often sees people wearing the engagement and wedding rings on the fourth finger of the left hand, mainly because of the belief that the vena amoris, or the vein of love runs from this finger to the heart. 

• Before the Wedding: Worn alone on the left ring finger. 

• During the wedding: the wedding band is placed on the same finger, in front of the engagement ring, to symbolize that marriage is the final commitment. 

• After the Wedding: Many people also wear both rings together, with the wedding band being closer to the heart. 

Differences in Ring-Wearing Traditions Across Cultures:

• Right-Hand Wedding Rings: In many European countries like Germany, Russia, Greece and Poland, couples wear wedding rings on the right hand. 

• India: Engagement rings are worn on the left hand, because of the Roman belief of Vena Amoris, as mentioned above. 

• Jewish Weddings: Traditional Jewish weddings have the groom place the wedding ring on the bride’s right index finger, with the bride moving it to the left ring finger afterward. 

• Latin American Traditions: In some South American countries, couples wear the engagement ring on the right hand and switch it to the left after their wedding. 

What to Keep in Mind While Buying an Engagement Ring and a Wedding Ring?

Consider the Budget: 

• Set a budget before shopping. This will help you avoid overspending on the ring. 

• Engagement rings also cost more than wedding bands, as they have gemstones. 

• Finerock has a vast collection of jewelry at affordable prices compared to offline stores. 

• Additionally, you will get different diamond sizes for both engagement and wedding rings. 

Ring Size and Fit: 

• When choosing the ring, remember to get it in the correct size. This will guarantee comfort and security, as the ring won’t be too tight, and will not be so loose to slip off.

• In case the ring has intricate designs, remember to get it in the correct size so that it fits perfectly. 

Choose the right metal type: 

• At Finerock, you will get a lot of rings in different types of gold, like white, yellow and rose gold. 

• White gold rings are a popular choice.

• Yellow gold is a more traditional and vintage choice. 

• Rose gold gives a soft, romantic vibe; a perfect choice for those who like elegance.

Diamond Quality: The 4 Cs - Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat

• Cut: This will determine how well the diamond reflects light. The better the cut, the more brilliant the stone. 

• Clarity: This measures the internal flaws and external blemishes. Higher the diamond’s quality, lesser the flaws. 

• Color: The rating starts from D for colorless, to Z for yellowish. Diamonds with D to F ratings are considered most valuable. This also affects the pricing of the diamonds.

• Carat: This refers to the diamond’s size. If the carat size is higher, then it means that the stone is larger, although the cut quality can also impact its visual size and pricing. 

Matching Engagement and Wedding Rings: 

• Some engagement rings are designed in a way that will perfectly match the wedding ring. 

• Consider whether you want a coordinated ring set or want to mix and match both rings.

• In case you choose to stack the rings, make sure that they sit comfortably without damaging the gemstones. 

• Men can match their wedding rings with the bride’s to create a harmonious look. However, remember to prioritize your individual style. 

Conclusion

Choosing an engagement ring and a wedding ring is a personal decision, as they are more than just mere pieces of jewelry; they represent love, commitment and lifelong partnership. There will be never ending trends when it comes to these rings, but what really matters is the emotions behind them. 

So when you buy one, prioritize durability, your comfort and the sentimental value. Ultimately, the best rings will reflect your love story. It doesn’t matter what type of engagement or wedding ring you choose, what matters the most is the promise of love that they represent. 

As for the ring’s quality and design, you will always have Finerock, home to beautiful diamond rings, for the perfect proposal and wedding!