Upon getting married, a bride will often sport two rings on that special finger as part of their bridal set, an engagement ring and a wedding band. However, some brides will often have an additional piece of jewellery on their ring finger known as the eternity ring. But what is an eternity ring? Usually resembling a wedding band, it is easy to understand why the two will often get conflated.
Fortunately, we're here to sort out some of that confusion by unpacking everything there is to know about eternity rings including what they represent, their design, their historical significance and of course, where they sit within your bridal jewellery collection.
Overview:
- What is an eternity ring?
- History and tradition of an eternity ring
- What finger does an eternity ring go on?
- What does an eternity ring look like?
- When do you get eternity rings?
- How to wear eternity rings
What Is An Eternity Ring?
An eternity ring or an infinity ring as it is often called, is a ring given to your spouse following a significant milestone, whether it be the birth of your first child, your first year of marriage, another special anniversary or even moving into your first house. Much like wedding rings, eternity bands also symbolise everlasting love and commitment. However, where eternity rings differ from wedding bands is that the former is not traditionally exchanged on the wedding day but is rather a gift given after the fact.
The Historical Significance Of Eternity Rings
The use of eternity rings can be traced back at least 4000 years, specifically, the days of Ancient Egypt when the Egyptians would give their partners a ring as a way to show their love and appreciation. Consisting of a simple metal band adorned with gemstones, the belief was that it signified something that would never end because of its infinite shape and pattern. It is said that the husband and wife exchanged it as the mark of a promise to be together forever.
Some eternity ring patterns even looked like a snake consuming its own tail, signifying the constant circle of birth and death. This image is a common symbol used to represent eternity, often referred to as 'ouroboros.' Ouroboros rings are still sold today, but the more conventional option of an eternity ring is a band of precious metal set with gemstones such as rubies, emeralds and most commonly, diamonds.
Which Finger Should I Wear An Eternity Ring On?
While it can differ depending on your cultural background, eternity rings are typically worn with the engagement ring and wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand. This is because it is said that the ancient Romans believed that a very specific vein- it was named ‘vena amoris’, aka ‘the vein of love’ pumped blood from the heart directly to this finger.
To find out more about which rings to wear on which hand, check out Which Finger To Wear Rings On: A Quick Guide.
What Does An Eternity Ring Look Like?
What an eternity ring should look like is largely based on people's personal tastes. While some want their eternity ring to match their wedding ring, others will want a completely unique design that stands out. Opting for a simple polished wedding band that matches the same metal in the setting of their engagement ring and a substantially blingier band complete with a row of diamonds or gemstones.
9ct White Gold Eternity Ring with 18 Diamonds
$699.00
Dainty and ethereal, this 9ct White Gold Eternity Ring is the ultimate in elegant minimal fashion. Adorned with 18 luxurious diamonds, it’s sure to bewitch onlookers with its enchanting dazzle.… read more
9ct Yellow Gold Diamond Eternity Ring with 22 Brilliant Diamonds
$1,334.00
Symbolise your eternal love with our 9ct Yellow Gold Diamond Eternity Ring with 22 Brilliant Diamonds that she is guaranteed to adore. A classic design, this ring is perfect for any occasion and makes the perfect gift for any special… read more
Flawless Cut Platinum 1 Carat Diamond Eternity Band
$4,549.30
$6,499.00
Wear as a wedding band, eternity band or simply on it's own. A classic design with everlasting sparkle. Every diamond from the Flawless range has the beautiful pattern of hears and arrows which is a sign that your diamonds are… read more
Some eternity rings will combine personal elements that help make them even more special for the wearer including coloured stones representing the couple's gemstones or the gemstones of their children, unique engravings such as the couple's initials or special quotes and even unique diamond cuts. Some couples will even opt for both a wedding and an eternity band with a slight curve in the middle so that it perfectly encases the wearer's engagement ring. These eternity rings are often purchased at the same time as the wedding ring and then officially given at a later date to ensure the perfect pairing in the person's bridal jewellery set.
When Do You Get Given An Eternity Ring?
The eternity ring carries as much significance as the engagement ring or the wedding ring as a pledge of love and commitment. What is an eternity ring if not a reflection of the circle of life; which is why it is often given when a couple welcomes their first child to the world.
Some people use it as a ring upgrade, giving it to their spouse after a milestone they hit together, like a 10-year anniversary. Traditionally it’s an anniversary gift, almost like a reminder that the love promised on the day of the wedding is renewed and still kept.
How To Wear Eternity Rings
Because the eternity ring will usually be worn alongside wedding and engagement rings, it is suggested that all three rings are the same metal type to ensure a seamless pairing. While it really depends on the individual wearer, the most common combination for a bridal set is the wedding ring first as it is closest to the heart, the engagement ring in the middle as it is the most detailed piece and then finally, the eternity ring on the top as its the almost as though it's the final touch.
Eternity rings are available in half or full-eternity options, featuring precious stones usually set in gold or platinum. That said, the creative potential is infinite. While they may hold any gem of choice, the most common stone is a diamond. With their immense strength and durability, diamond jewellery has symbolised unwavering devotion for decades, and their high value also makes them the perfect symbol for a romantic gesture.
You May Also Like:
- What Are Morganite Engagement Rings?
- White Gold Rings vs. Platinum Rings
- What Is A Signet Ring & Why Wear One?
- Our Top 5 Most Popular Engagement Ring Cuts For 2023-2024
- An Overview Of All 15 Of Victoria Beckham's Engagement Rings
- How To Plan The Perfect Christmas Proposal
- What Ring Style Suits Me - A Guide
