The Origins & Traditions
Did you know that instead of being a symbol of love and devotion, an engagement ring was a marker of ownership at its origin? Luckily, like many other archaic traditions and schools of thought, the engagement ring tradition has evolved into a welcomed and beautiful token of one's love for another.
The origin of the engagement ring can be traced back to ancient Rome, where a woman would wear rings of ivory, flint, bone, copper, and iron to signify a business contract or to affirm mutual love and obedience.
Although Archduke Maximilian of Austria was the first to propose with a diamond ring in 1477, the diamond engagement ring we know and love today did not become popular until 1947. This launch to popularity began when De Beers, the British diamond mining and retail company, released their “A diamond is forever” advertising campaign. With the help of Hollywood stars, and this new compelling slogan, diamond engagement rings skyrocketed in popularity.
In current times, engagement traditions are shifting, and many are opting for colored diamonds or different gemstones altogether. Some notable mentions being Kate Middleton's blue sapphire engagement ring, Blake Lively's light pink oval diamond, and Katy Perry's ruby ring.
Engagement Rings vs. Wedding Rings
You may be wondering — what's the difference between engagement rings and wedding rings? Let's begin with the obvious differences in appearance. Traditional engagement rings will have one dominant stone that either stands alone on a band or is surrounded by additional smaller stones, while a wedding ring, also known as a wedding band, will typically be a plain metal band or a diamond-encrusted eternity band.
Next, let's look at who in the relationship gets what ring and when is each ring given. Traditionally, the engagement ring is usually given from one partner to the other as part of the proposal, or if not, at an early point in the engagement. Throughout history, it was typical for a man to gift a woman with an engagement ring in heterosexual marriages, but recent studies show 5% of grooms are choosing to wear “man-gagement” rings along with their bride.
In contrast, the wedding band is worn by both spouses after exchanging vows during the marriage ceremony. The partner who received the proposal will wear the wedding band in addition to their engagement ring.
Ring Etiquette
There are a lot of questions that swirl around the topic of engagement ring and wedding band rules such as: do you wear your engagement ring on your wedding day, do you need both rings, and when should you remove your engagement ring. We're here to answer all these questions for you and more with a brief overview of ring etiquette.
Do I Need Both Rings?
The short and sweet answer to this question is it's up to personal preference, but if you prefer the traditional look, then yes, you will want both the engagement and wedding ring. But the great thing about being a modern bride is traditions can be forgone and comfortability and preference are of the utmost importance.
Can Any Ring be an Engagement Ring?
Gemstones of all cuts, colors, and sizes are being used in engagement rings today — a nod towards the practice of preference over tradition. Popular choices for more colorful center stones include sapphire, emerald, ruby, aquamarine, and topaz.
Do I Wear My Engagement Ring While Walking Down the Aisle?
Custom traditions would nod to yes – a bride should wear their engagement rings during their wedding ceremony, and the wedding band will be placed on the same finger to form a matching set. However, like stated above, it is up to the bride and groom to fulfill their own preferences as no absolute mandate stands.
When Should I Take Off My Engagement Ring?
How often and in what situations you remove your engagement ring will most likely depend on the material your ring is made from — for example, rings with bands of platinum won't have to be removed for every little thing — but here is a quick list of activities and places that you should probably remove your ring for, just to be on the safe side.
The gym
It's best to take off your ring before working out, or before any activity that will make you sweat like running, yoga, working outside, etc. Another concern when it comes to working out and lifting weights is that holding onto metal objects, such as barbells, your ring can become nicked, scratched, or even bent.
In the shower
Scented soaps, hair products, and lotions can cause build-up on your stone and ring exterior causing a cloudy, lackluster effect. And if the build-up happens under the stone it becomes very difficult to clean.
When swimming
No matter what body of water you're swimming in, from a pool to an ocean, your ring can easily fall off during this activity, so just as a preventative measure, it's best to take your ring off before you go swimming.
When sleeping
This may seem like a silly one, but if you're a restless sleeper or move around a lot in bed, then you may want to consider taking off your ring in bed to avoid snags on sheets and blankets or tangles in your hair.
When cleaning and using harsh chemicals
Your ring can be easily damaged by everyday cleaners, solvents, and detergents, especially those that contain strong and harmful chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and bromine. So, to prevent corrosion, tarnish, or simply discoloration, remove your rings before you dive into housework.
Popular Styles & Designs
While there are countless colors, cuts, sizes, arrangements, and compositions of these elements, here is a brief list of styles and designs that have been big in 2021, and are projected to continue in popularity through 2022.
Statement Wedding Bands
Statement wedding bands are for all of you who appreciate the practicality, affordability, and unisex vibe of the single-ring preference. New statement wedding bands are bolder than ever with diamond-encrusted, maximalist cigar bands, and luxe signet rings. If you have your heart set on an engagement ring and a statement wedding band, definitely feel encouraged to wear your rings on separate hands or fingers.
Vintage Engagement Rings
Details and intricate touches are what sets vintage engagement rings apart from modern engagement rings. Milgrians, filigree, and halos are some design elements that can give a ring an antique look and feel. These rings without a doubt are timeless and classic.
Blue Engagement Rings
From rich royal blues to bright aquas and everything in between, this “something blue” can be surprisingly versatile and timeless. Choices are endless so consult with your jeweler to make sure your ring matches your personal style and preferences.
Emerald Engagement Rings
Emeralds signify wealth, serenity, and new beginnings — all aspirational descriptors for a newly engaged couple! Not only that, but there is a complementary shade of emerald for every skin tone. From a dark, smoky emerald hue, to a bright, vibrant emerald, there's a color for everyone who is drawn to the emerald engagement ring.
Rose Cut Diamond Engagement Rings
These rings are a major throwback to the 1500s, with their flat bottoms and domed top they resemble the silhouette of a rose. Not only do these rings carry sentimental value, but they look larger than their actual carat weight suggests, meaning you'll get more bang for your buck.
How to Wear & Pair
If you're going to go the more traditional route of wearing both an engagement ring and a wedding band, you'll want to ensure that the two rings complement or match the style of the other, especially if you'll be wearing them stacked on the left ring finger. Here are a few of our favorite tips on how to perfectly wear and pair your engagement ring and wedding band.
Round Solitaire Engagement Ring + Curved Wedding Band
A curved wedding band works well with a solitaire engagement ring. A curved wedding band will frame your engagement ring and will make it appear larger by adding sparkle and width.
Marquise, Oval, & Pear Cut Engagement Rings + Chevron Wedding Band
A chevron band is a pointed, v-shaped band that perfectly nests with oval & pear cut engagement rings, and has a very fashion-forward feel.
Halo Setting Engagement Ring + Pav Wedding Band
This option is great when your goal is to achieve maximum sparkles and shine! Pav styles are a timeless choice and are generally flattering for most ring types.
Emerald & Princess Cut Engagement Rings + Baguette Wedding Band
Classic and glam is the best way to describe this pairing. An eternity band has stones that go around the entirety of the band with no beginning or end, and the stones often feature emerald, princess, and asscher cuts — which will perfectly accentuate the same cut on your engagement ring stone.
Find Your Dream Wedding Dress at Alexandra's Boutique
Now that you got the rundown on all things engagement rings and wedding bands, it may be time to focus your energy on other steps of the journey to marriage… like your honeymoon, or maybe finding your dream wedding dress? That's where Alexandra's Boutique comes in. Our large selection of show-stopping wedding dresses includes designers like Stella York, Martina Liana, Maggie Sottero, and plenty more. You can find exactly what you're dreaming of wearing on your wedding day with help from Alexandra's Boutique.