Engagement Ring Vs Wedding Ring

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People often mistake wedding rings and engagement rings as the same ring, but they’re actually two different rings. An engagement ring is given to the receiving partner after a successful proposal. Wedding rings are exchanged at the couple’s wedding ceremony and symbolize their marital bond.

What’s The Difference Between An Engagement Ring And A Wedding Ring?

An engagement ring is given during a successful marriage proposal, and shows that its wearer is engaged. 

The wedding ring, sometimes called a wedding band, is exchanged during a couple’s wedding ceremony, after their vows. This ring signifies the couple’s bond through marriage. 

Do I Need To Match My Engagement Ring To My Wedding Band? What Is A Set?

There’s no rule that you have to match your engagement and wedding rings. A set, sometimes called a bridal set, includes an engagement ring and a wedding band that matches perfectly. The groom’s wedding ring usually isn’t included. At David Alan we believe in coordinating and complimentary rings that do not match exactly. Because David Alan is a Custom, Not Customary Fine Jewelry Atelier, the rings we make are one hundred percent custom and made to order, to your exacting specifications. 

How Do You Wear The Rings Together?

In the United States, the engagement and wedding rings are traditionally worn together on your left ring finger. The wedding ring is conventionally worn at the base of your finger with the engagement ring on top. The wedding ring is worn on the bottom because it’s closest to your heart!

That being said, some women wear their engagement ring closest, while others wear one ring on each ring finger. Ultimately, how you wear your engagement and wedding ring is a matter of personal preference and style. 

Do You Have To Wear Them Both?

You don’t have to wear both your engagement and wedding ring all the time but we see no reason not to! Some women have active daily lives and don’t want to damage their engagement ring, while others only wear both for special occasions. You can wear one or both depending on your preference. Pro tip! Never wear your rings while exercising, cleaning or swimming!

Best Tips When Looking For An Engagement Ring And Wedding Band

Here’s a few tips on how to find the perfect engagement ring and wedding band: 

  • Choose an engagement ring that suits your partner’s style. While some women want their engagement ring to be a total surprise, other women are excited to be part of the process of shopping and perhaps custom making her ring. If she mentions a particular stone, cut, carat weight, setting, or precious metal, make a note! If she hasn’t left any hints, take note of her personal style, career, lifestyle and existing jewelry wardrobe. 
  • Learn about the 4Cs. If you’re set on buying a classic diamond engagement ring, it’s important to learn  the 4Cs: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat. These factors determine the diamond’s quality. Becoming familiar with the 4Cs is key to buying a quality diamond.
  • Remember that the wedding band complements the engagement ring. This is important to remember when shopping for an engagement ring! It’s easy to get caught up with the diamond cut, carat weight, or setting for the engagement ring without thinking about how to pair a wedding band. Some engagement rings are trickier to match because of the stone’s cut. Consider this factor when choosing. 
  • Consider Custom Rings. Investing in a custom engagement and wedding ring is the ideal way to ensure your rings are a perfect match. Master jeweler and diamantaire, David Alan sits with his clients to discuss your design, preferences and budget to ensure you get rings that will last a lifetime and become your family heirlooms. 

    • Discover custom, not customary fine jewelry, designed and expertly crafted for you

    David Alan is a New York City based custom fine jewelry atelier with an incredible reputation for capturing and translating your raw emotion and passion into a beautifully balanced, and distinctly unique design. Every part of your David Alan experience contributes to a jewel so personal, it becomes your signature, your talisman, and your future heirloom. Start your journey now.  

    Engage in a complimentary virtual consultation with David Alan, today!