Everything You Want To Know About Wedding and Engagement Rings

When searching for the perfect ring for your partner, it can be a bit overwhelming. There are so many design choices and budgets to choose from, where do you start?  We’re breaking down the difference between an engagement ring vs a wedding ring, and some of the different choices between them.

Engagement Ring vs Wedding Ring

A ring is the often used in a proposal because the circle shape symbolizes an unending commitment to one another. Even though there are studies that suggest engagement rings began as early as 1477, the traditional diamond engagement ring didn’t become popular until the 1900’s. Nowadays, it’s customary for one to receive an engagement ring at the time of proposal and exchange a wedding ring (also referred to as a wedding band) during the ceremony. And while it’s been commonly portrayed as just the woman to receive an engagement ring (in a heterosexual couple), more recently, I’m seeing couples gifting one another engagement rings so both parties have one, which I love! You’re both engaged, after all! 

Types of Engagement Rings

Ultimately, there are no rules to say that the engagement ring has to have a diamond or stone. However, if you do want to add a larger stone to the engagement ring, then a “simpler” band is used as the wedding band.  If you’re unsure of which stone is right for you, here are a few popular choices:

Diamond Rings

Diamonds are easily the most popular choice for couples because it’s an extremely durable stone that looks amazing. However, diamonds have been under scrutiny in recent years because of how the stone is mined, therefore creating a need for companies to carefully source their supply. Many companies now will offer conflict-free diamonds but it also comes at a higher cost because of the limited supply. 

Moissanite/Lab Grown Diamonds

If you’re unsure about a natural diamond, there are plenty of diamond alternatives available such as moissanite or lab grown diamonds. Both of these produce a stone that looks extremely similar to a diamond. However, many couples gravitate towards them because they’re grown in a lab and are considered conflict-free choice. Also, the range in price can fit a variety of budgets. 

Gemstone Rings

If Princess Diana’s sapphire engagement ring gives you chills, then your dream stone is probably a gemstone! While not always less expensive than a diamond, a gemstone ring is unique. Sapphire, emerald, rubies and morganite are popular stones to choose from but there are many more.  Especially if you’re into vintage rings, you’ll likely find one that has a gemstone in lieu of a diamond.

Stone Cut/Setting

No matter what type of stone you use, you can customize your rings by choosing the cut and setting. The stones themselves can be in different shapes such as round, oval, emerald, pear, princess and even heart. And a wide variety of settings from pave to prong are also available. I’m loving the asymmetrical settings that are trending as well. There are so many ways to express your uniqueness!  

Metal Bands

And lastly, there are a variety of metals you can choose from for the base of the ring. Gold, white gold and silver are the most popular, however platinum is also a great choice because of how durable it is. Tungsten and titanium are also strong metals that are cost efficient, but keep in mind they cannot be resized easily. 

Ultimately, there is no right or wrong way to design to an engagement or wedding ring! It’s all about your own personal preferences and finding what you both like and fits your budget. If you are able to design the rings together, I highly recommend it. My now husband and I designed our rings with the help of VÉRITÉ and it was such a fun process to do together! (To read more about our engagement story, check out this blog post.) 

PS friends – When you’re ready to take the leap, check back here because we also have a guide for the first steps to take after you get engaged! Then contact us on our homepage so we can start planning your big day!