Engagement Rings Vs Wedding Rings - How Are They Different?

When you or a loved one decide to marry, you will be informed of the many wedding traditions that exist. Even if obvious to some, many are unaware of the distinctions when it comes to engagement rings vs. wedding rings. Although the terms wedding rings and engagement rings are occasionally used synonymously, they are fairly distinct. We'll clarify any confusion related to engagement rings vs. wedding rings by giving a more in-depth look at each ring style in this blog. What distinguishes engagement rings vs. wedding rings from one another? Are both essential? And what do they signify? Here are the answers to all your engagement rings vs. wedding rings queries.

TABLE OF CONTENT

• What Are Wedding Rings?
• What Are the Types of Wedding Rings?
• What Are Engagement Rings?
• Engagement Rings Vs. Wedding Rings: What Is the Difference?

What Are Wedding Rings?

Wedding rings have been cherished marital symbols since ancient times. According to historians, ancient Egyptians believed that circles represented enduring love and specifically wore rings made of hemp and reed on the fourth finger of the left hand. Egyptians thought that a vein in this finger led directly to the heart. Later, other cultures picked up on this concept. The Latin phrase "Vena Amoris" (literally, "vein of love") was coined in ancient Rome. As time passed, the Romans started making rings out of stronger materials like iron and, eventually, gold. These rings continued to gain significance as weddings became more official. Wedding rings are today a crucial part of the wedding day at the wedding ceremony where wedding rings are exchanged.

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What Are the Types of Wedding Rings?

Wedding rings, or wedding "bands," as they are also known, come in various hues and designs. Wedding bands are available in a wide range of beautiful metals, including white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum. Although many prefer to keep these opulent touches for their engagement rings, many modern couples adorn wedding ring sets with accent diamonds or tiny jewels.

What Are Engagement Rings?

Engagement rings were first used in history hundreds of years after wedding bands. Archduke Maximilian of Austria was the first person recorded in history to propose marriage with a diamond engagement ring when he presented the ring before Mary of Burgundy in 1477. Shakespeare referenced both wedding and engagement rings in one of his plays from the 1600s, demonstrating how popular the customs were at the time. The engagement ring is currently the key component of a proposal and is the symbol of commitment that a partner presents when looking to marry.

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Engagement Rings Vs. Wedding Rings: What Is the Difference?

Here are a few key differences when it comes to engagement rings vs. wedding rings:

The Time When Presented

When it comes to engagement rings vs. wedding rings, both differ from one another not only in terms of design but also in terms of timing. Engagement rings are presented when a proposal is made. Wedding rings are presented when the bride and groom exchange vows during the wedding ceremony. Also, wedding bands generally come in pairs and are worn by the bride and groom. On the other hand, engagement rings are one-piece jewelry items a partner presents to the other. Exchanging engagement rings is still not a standard like that of exchanging wedding rings.

Ring Designs

Engagement rings are generally extravagant, with a stunning center stone that stands out. Contrarily, wedding rings are usually far more understated. They are of a classic design made of metal only. However, modern wedding bands may include little accent diamonds or other gemstones running the length of the band, but they rarely have a larger stone like an engagement ring.

Style

When it comes to engagement rings vs. wedding rings, both ring styles have unique features:

Wedding Ring Styles: Wedding rings can appear vintage, classic, contemporary, or a combination of all three. A traditional wedding band features a clean, timeless design. Typically, it is a single ring, a complete circle, with no diamonds. However, they may have diamond accents per the couple's preferences. It is a known fact that distinctive embellishments can provide a romantic touch to wedding rings with a vintage aesthetic. Marquise-shaped frames, engravings with a floral theme, and milgrain borders are examples of a few. Modern ring designs offer more distinctive variations, including intertwined bands or contoured ring shapes. The eternity band with diamonds wrapped completely around the finger is one form of wedding ring that has become very popular.

Engagement Ring Styles: When it comes to engagement vs. wedding rings, engagement rings can also be vintage, modern, or classic, but there is a contrasting difference compared to wedding rings. The central stone significantly influences the style of the engagement ring. The classic solitaire setting is one of the most popular engagement ring styles. It has a single stone at the center. Prongs often hold the diamond in place, allowing it to reflect light in all directions. A halo, which adds a layer of diamonds around the center, or a bezel setting, which hugs the center stone, are two examples of modern engagement ring embellishments.

Modern engagement rings are a fantastic choice for those seeking a more glamorous appearance that stands out. They consist of distinctive shapes and may also have gemstones other than diamonds. However, diamond rings are the most popular and have been so for a long time. Engagement rings are also adorned with different features and designs along the band.

Ring Color and Metal

There are numerous color options available for both wedding and engagement rings. But some of them are more well-liked than others when comparing engagement rings vs. wedding rings. A wedding ring's hue is influenced by the metal used to make it. The most popular colors for most designs are white, yellow, and rose gold. However, white gold is unquestionably the most sought-after color. Platinum is also an option when creating rings. Despite having a color quite similar to white gold, platinum is a rare, precious metal of greater quality sought after because of its luster and durability.

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Ring Pricing

Engagement rings generally cost more than wedding rings because of the diamond/diamonds. However, a beautiful wedding ring studded with diamonds may be more expensive than an engagement ring with a plain band and a modest center stone. The center diamond, based on its size and grade, significantly impacts an engagement ring's price. Platinum is the most expensive metal option for both rings. So there you have it—everything you need to know about the differences between engagement rings vs. wedding rings. Both, as you can see, have a distinct history and different designs and have varied symbolisms, even though they are centered around the emotion of love. If looking for engagement and wedding rings, browse through our collection of the finest lab diamond engagement and wedding ring designs here at Friendly Diamonds.