What is an Eternity Ring and How Do You Wear It?

Certain moments in a relationship call out for an emblem that celebrates our love. An eternity ring is that perfect emblem. 

Eternity rings  represent an eternal love story and honour commitment. This ring is the ideal gift for an anniversary or momentous occasion. After all, there is no better way to proclaim ''I will love you forever” than with a ring that symbolises infinite love.  

In this guide, we highlight what is an eternity ring in the UK and how to wear one.

What is an Eternity Ring?

An eternity ring is a continuous circle of precious metal adorned with a series of identical gemstones or diamonds. This ring symbolises a love that has no limits. 

What do Eternity Rings Look Like?

The unique design of eternity rings is what makes them stand out. The design includes a metal band with gemstones or diamonds that encircle the ring. The visual appeal of an eternity ring lies in its simplicity and the never-ending circle of gemstones that it displays.

What is the Difference Between Eternity Rings and Other Commitment Rings?

Rings have been a symbol of commitment for thousands of years. The circular shape of a ring naturally symbolises eternity. This uninterrupted loop makes it a powerful symbol of unending love, loyalty, and commitment. These are the four different types of rings that portray commitment: 

• Promise Rings

Promise rings symbolise the bond between two people who are committed to each other. Traditionally, they are given before engagement as a pledge to a future marriage. Promise rings can also be given in a relationship to pledge loyalty and partnership.  The design of these rings can cater to various personal preferences. They can include gemstones, heart motifs, initials, or engravings. The choice of design will give this ring a special, intimate touch. 

• Engagement Rings

An engagement ring signifies a marriage proposal. Traditionally, it is a metal band that features a diamond or other precious gemstone. From a classic solitaire diamond to a ring with intricate designs, the choice of design will reflect the unique love story it represents. 

• Wedding Rings

Exchanged during the wedding ceremony, wedding rings symbolise the vows and bond made between two people. They are usually simple bands of precious metal, but many couples now incorporate diamonds or other gemstones. The circle of the ring serves as a daily reminder of eternal commitment.

• Eternity Rings

The main difference between an eternity ring and other commitment rings lies in their symbolism and purpose. Promise rings, engagement rings, and wedding rings traditionally signify different stages of a relationship. Eternity rings for special occasions represent everlasting love and commitment. 

When Should You Get an Eternity Ring?

The decision on when to buy an eternity ring should be based on the significance of the occasion and the desire to express an eternal bond. It is a deeply personal gesture that symbolises the strength and enduring nature of a relationship.

Here are some common occasions to gift or receive an eternity ring:

• Anniversaries: Eternity rings are often given to celebrate milestone anniversaries, such as the 10th, 20th, or 25th years of marriage. They serve as a meaningful symbol that commemorates the years spent together.
• Birth of a Child: The birth of a child is a joyous and life-changing event. Many partners choose to mark this occasion by presenting an eternity ring to the mother. The ring symbolises the eternal bond between the parents and the love they have for their child.
• Renewal of Vows: When couples choose to renew their marriage vows, an eternity ring can be a meaningful addition to the ceremony. It reaffirms the everlasting love shared between the couple.

How to Wear an Eternity Ring

Eternity rings are traditionally worn on the ‘ring finger’, which is the fourth finger on your left hand. The order of your rings would be your wedding ring, engagement ring, followed by your eternity ring. 

The choice of how to wear the eternity ring depends on personal preference, cultural traditions, and the desired aesthetic. You may prefer to wear it alone on any finger to give it maximum attention. The important thing is to find a wearing style that feels meaningful and comfortable for you. 

Full Eternity Rings vs Half Eternity Rings

When choosing an eternity ring, you have two stunning styles to select between - the full eternity ring and the half eternity ring. These styles differ in how the gemstones or diamonds are set on the band, resulting in distinct looks and characteristics.

A full eternity ring is adorned with gemstones set around the band, creating a continuous line of sparkle. This design showcases the beauty of the gemstones from every angle. The allure of a full eternity ring lies in its luxurious appearance, as it requires more gemstones and intricate craftsmanship. 

A half eternity ring features gemstones set on the top half of the ring, while the back of the band remains plain. The gemstones on the face of the ring still create a striking display of brilliance, while the plain backside provides comfort for everyday wear. Half eternity rings are often more budget-friendly compared to their full eternity counterparts, as fewer gemstones are required.

When deciding between a full eternity ring and a half eternity ring, consider your personal preferences and lifestyle. Full eternity rings are ideal for those seeking maximum sparkle and glamour. On the other hand, half-eternity rings offer a versatile option that can be worn daily without compromising on style. 

Types of Metal Used for Eternity Rings

When it comes to crafting rings, there is a variety of metals to choose from. The different metals offer their own unique qualities and aesthetic appeal. 

We highlight the types of metals commonly used for eternity rings:

• Platinum: Platinum is a popular choice due to its durability and timeless elegance. It is a naturally white metal that does not fade or tarnish over time. Known for its strength, platinum ensures that your eternity ring will withstand the test of time. 
• White Gold: White gold is a versatile and luxurious metal option for these rings. It is created by mixing pure gold with other white metals, such as palladium or silver, and then coated with a rhodium plating to achieve its brilliant white colour. 
• Yellow Gold: Yellow gold has been a timeless choice for jewellery for centuries. The warm and rich hue exudes a sense of tradition and elegance. The purity of the gold is measured in karats, with 14K and 18K being commonly used for fine jewellery.
• Rose Gold: This blush-coloured metal is created by mixing pure gold with copper alloy, which gives it its distinctive pink hue. Rose gold rings exude a sense of charm and grace, making them a captivating choice for those seeking a unique ring.

The Setting of the Diamond

There are two common diamond settings for eternity rings: the channel setting and the prong setting. 

In the channel setting, the diamonds are placed in a continuous channel or groove within the band. The diamonds are secured by the metal walls of the channel, creating a seamless and uniform appearance. 

The prong setting is a classic and widely used method for securing diamonds. In this setting, small metal claws or prongs are used to hold each diamond in place. The prongs can be positioned to cradle the diamond from multiple sides, allowing maximum light to enter and enhance the diamond's shine. 

How Much Should I Spend on an Eternity Ring?

Just like any piece of jewellery, the price of an eternity ring can vary greatly. The size, quality, and quantity of diamonds or gemstones will impact the cost. The metal choice and complexity of the design will also affect the price. 

An eternity ring is not just any ring. It is a testament to an enduring love story that's uniquely yours. When deciding how much to spend on this ring, it is important to balance the cost and the sentimental value it will hold.