The Difference Between Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands
Let’s start with the basics. Engagement rings are typically given at the time of the proposal, or shortly thereafter. These symbolic rings usually feature a large center stone, often a diamond, that is either solo on the setting, or accompanied by smaller diamonds or other gemstones. On the other hand, wedding bands are often much less extravagant than wedding bands. These are usually exchanged between partners during the wedding ceremony when each person is proclaiming their vows. Wedding rings are traditionally a solid gold or other precious metal. Channel-set diamonds are common, as well as the classic simple gold band. Wedding bands (or wedding rings, the terms are interchangeable) tend to be much cheaper than engagement rings. Even if you opt for a band with multiple diamonds, the carat weight of a large center-stone diamond engagement ring drives the price up much more.
Now for the similarities… both kinds of rings typically use the same materials: gold and diamonds. Traditionally, they are both worn on the left ring finger – even if the bride chooses to wear one on her right hand, placement on that ring finger is a must. This is uncommon, but depending on how extravagant each ring is, splitting the two symbolic pieces between hands is sometimes a necessity due to stone size or a myriad of other design-based reasons.
A piece of jewelry trivia we love: when both rings are worn on the same finger, traditionally the wedding band is worn on the inside so it is closer to the wearer’s heart.
Regardless of the positioning of the two, it is commonplace for them to match… even if that just means buying wedding bands that are made of the same color metal. You will want to put in some quality time with your jeweler when trying to pick wedding bands that go well with your engagement ring. Consider factors like size, color, gemstone(s), and any other design traits that might come up. You definitely don’t want your weddig band to stick out like a sore thumb when placed on the same finger as your gorgeous engagement ring. Another issue to consider is how they feel when worn at the same time… are they rubbing against each other, possibly causing scratches? This is especially important when diamonds are involved in either ring. The hardest gemstone found in nature, diamonds, don’t care how nice your gold band is, they will cause scratching over time.
Another tradition shared between the two types of bridal jewelry is the engagement ring being moved to the right hand before the wedding ceremony begins. This allows the groom to easily slide a wedding band on when they finish giving their vows. Usually, the engagement ring gets moved back to the left hand after the ceremony concludes.
If you manage to choose a wedding band that looks and feels naturally good next to your engagement ring, soldering is a popular choice. This is the process of using heat to bond the two rings together into one larger piece. If you think you’ll want to go this route, you can be proactive by looking into bundled wedding sets that include an engagement ring and wedding band that are usually from the same brand and look exquisite next to each other. Ask your local jeweler about wedding sets if this sounds like something you are interested in.
Despite lore and tradition, not everyone decides to get wedding bands, and just use the engagement ring to signify their eternal bond. A few reasons to ditch the wedding bands are:
As a jewelry store, naturally we will suggest that you follow along with tradition and spring for diamond-encrusted wedding bands. However, traditions around marriage are constantly changing, so just go with whatever makes you and your partner the most comfortable. That’s what’s really important. Like everything jewelry-related, your personal preference should trump any tradition.
When it’s time to find that perfect engagement ring and wedding bands, make Malak Jewelers in Charlotte your first, and only stop. We have the largest selection of diamond engagement rings, gold wedding bands, and bridal sets in the area. We also offer total ring customization. If you see a few images online when researching what kind of rings you want to get, bring them in and we will gladly assist in making your dream ring(s) a reality. We also offer engraving if you want to enscribe initials or a special date in your diamond engagement ring and/or gold wedding band.
Now for the similarities… both kinds of rings typically use the same materials: gold and diamonds. Traditionally, they are both worn on the left ring finger – even if the bride chooses to wear one on her right hand, placement on that ring finger is a must. This is uncommon, but depending on how extravagant each ring is, splitting the two symbolic pieces between hands is sometimes a necessity due to stone size or a myriad of other design-based reasons.
A piece of jewelry trivia we love: when both rings are worn on the same finger, traditionally the wedding band is worn on the inside so it is closer to the wearer’s heart.
Regardless of the positioning of the two, it is commonplace for them to match… even if that just means buying wedding bands that are made of the same color metal. You will want to put in some quality time with your jeweler when trying to pick wedding bands that go well with your engagement ring. Consider factors like size, color, gemstone(s), and any other design traits that might come up. You definitely don’t want your weddig band to stick out like a sore thumb when placed on the same finger as your gorgeous engagement ring. Another issue to consider is how they feel when worn at the same time… are they rubbing against each other, possibly causing scratches? This is especially important when diamonds are involved in either ring. The hardest gemstone found in nature, diamonds, don’t care how nice your gold band is, they will cause scratching over time.
Another tradition shared between the two types of bridal jewelry is the engagement ring being moved to the right hand before the wedding ceremony begins. This allows the groom to easily slide a wedding band on when they finish giving their vows. Usually, the engagement ring gets moved back to the left hand after the ceremony concludes.
If you manage to choose a wedding band that looks and feels naturally good next to your engagement ring, soldering is a popular choice. This is the process of using heat to bond the two rings together into one larger piece. If you think you’ll want to go this route, you can be proactive by looking into bundled wedding sets that include an engagement ring and wedding band that are usually from the same brand and look exquisite next to each other. Ask your local jeweler about wedding sets if this sounds like something you are interested in.
Despite lore and tradition, not everyone decides to get wedding bands, and just use the engagement ring to signify their eternal bond. A few reasons to ditch the wedding bands are:
- It’s one less ring to worry about losing and keeping clean.
- You can make a larger investment in the actual wedding band.
- The engagement ring center stone can be larger without worrying about scratching or overpowering the wedding band.
- You simply might just be more comfortable wearing one ring for the rest of your life. Remember, these rings are forever.
As a jewelry store, naturally we will suggest that you follow along with tradition and spring for diamond-encrusted wedding bands. However, traditions around marriage are constantly changing, so just go with whatever makes you and your partner the most comfortable. That’s what’s really important. Like everything jewelry-related, your personal preference should trump any tradition.
When it’s time to find that perfect engagement ring and wedding bands, make Malak Jewelers in Charlotte your first, and only stop. We have the largest selection of diamond engagement rings, gold wedding bands, and bridal sets in the area. We also offer total ring customization. If you see a few images online when researching what kind of rings you want to get, bring them in and we will gladly assist in making your dream ring(s) a reality. We also offer engraving if you want to enscribe initials or a special date in your diamond engagement ring and/or gold wedding band.