An engagement ring marks the promise to marry; a wedding ring marks the marriage itself. They are often worn together, but they differ in meaning, in timing and usually in design.
The differences
| Engagement ring | Wedding ring | |
|---|---|---|
| When it is given | At the proposal | During the wedding ceremony |
| Who wears it | Traditionally the person proposed to | Often both partners |
| Typical design | Features a centre stone | A band, plain or set with small stones |
| Wear | From the engagement onwards | From the wedding onwards |
Wearing them together
By tradition, the wedding band is worn closest to the hand, with the engagement ring above it. Many people simply choose the order they find more comfortable or beautiful. Some wear the engagement ring on the other hand, or keep it for special occasions.
Designing them to fit
- Matching metals wear more evenly against each other.
- Contoured bands follow the shape of a low-set stone so the rings sit flush.
- Setting height: a higher setting leaves room for a straight band to sit beneath it.
Read How to choose wedding bands and Do wedding bands have to match?.
Bridal sets
A bridal set is an engagement ring and a wedding band designed to be worn together, often sharing details such as the metal, the stones or a contour that lets the band sit flush. It makes coordination simple, although many people prefer to choose their band after the engagement ring.
Joining the rings
Some people ask a jeweller to solder their engagement ring and wedding band together. It stops the rings from twisting and rubbing, but it makes resizing more complicated and means the rings can no longer be worn separately. Consider it once you are sure of the size and of how you like to wear them.
Wedding rings for both partners
Exchanging rings between both partners became widespread in many countries during the twentieth century. Today, it is common for both partners to wear a wedding band, whether matching or chosen individually. Read Do wedding bands have to match?.
If you only want one ring
Some people wear only their engagement ring after marriage, some only a band, and some choose a single ring that combines both roles, such as a band set with a stone. There is no obligation to wear two rings.
Sources: General overview of documented customs.
Frequently asked questions
Do you need both rings?
No. Some people wear only one, some combine them into a single ring, and some wear both. It is a personal choice.
Which ring goes on first?
By tradition the wedding band is worn closest to the hand, with the engagement ring above it, but many people wear them the other way round.
Can a wedding band have diamonds?
Yes. Half-eternity and full-eternity bands are set with stones; plain bands are equally traditional.
Should the engagement ring and the band be the same metal?
It is advisable when they are worn together, so they wear evenly and look coherent.
