What is the Meaning of Eternity Rings?

Eternity rings (infinity rings) feature identically cut diamonds or gemstones around a gold or platinum band. Traditionally, an eternity ring was given to the mother to celebrate the birth of her first child. Today eternity rings are known to be a popular gift for your first wedding anniversary, big birthday or a Valentine’s Day gift.

Diamond Heaven’s article explores the meaning behind eternity rings and when you should give one.

A Brief History of the Eternity Ring

The history of eternity rings goes back thousands of years ago to Ancient Egypt. At the time, the first eternity rings weren’t made with precious metals, but with bone, beads and occasionally metal. In Ancient Egyptian times, an eternity ring wasn’t given to celebrate a specific occasion but to symbolise everlasting love and commitment between two people. 

Which Finger Should You Wear Your Eternity Ring On?

Traditionally, you would wear your eternity ring on the same finger as your engagement ring and wedding band (your left ring finger). Ultimately, it is down to personal preference when deciding how to wear it. Your lifestyle and the ring’s design must be considered when buying an eternity ring. Contact our helpful team if you have any questions about our eternity rings at Diamond Heaven.

What is the Difference Between Wedding Rings and Eternity Rings?

Many couples can confuse eternity rings with wedding rings as both rings share similar characteristics. However, there are noticeable differences between the two ring types:

• A traditional Full Eternity ring has diamonds or gemstones set around the entire band.
• Wedding rings come in various styles, with and without diamonds.
• Wedding bands are given to the bride and groom at the wedding ceremony.
• Eternity rings are gifted for special occasions, including a push present, wedding anniversary or as a big birthday gift.

Half-Set or Full-Set Eternity Ring?

With eternity rings, there are two types you can choose from: half-set and full-set. Either one is an excellent choice, showcasing the ring’s luxurious sparkle. Personal preference is essential when choosing an eternity ring you’ll love. You may want a full-set eternity ring if you want:

• A ring that features diamonds around the entire circumference of the band.
• A statement ring that sparkles from every angle when worn on your finger.
• You are aware of the exact finger size you need as they cannot be resized.

Alternatively, if you work with your hands or have an active lifestyle, consider buying a half-set eternity ring. You may want a half-set eternity band for the following reasons:

• You want a ring that can be resized if needed.
• A durable eternity ring which can be worn daily.
• You want a ring that sits well next to your wedding and engagement rings.

Which Setting Can I Choose for My Eternity Band?

Pave, channel and prong are the three most popular settings for eternity rings. Choosing the perfect eternity ring setting is essential for showcasing the ring’s beauty and sparkle.

Pave

Translated from the French word “pavement”, pave refers to how the diamonds are set close together on the band. A pave eternity ring is popular for a dainty eternity ring style and features smaller diamonds all held on top of the band with claws, which allows lots of light to reach the setting and produce maximum sparkle. This design is very popular if you already have a pave shoulder set engagement ring or wedding ring as the eternity ring will then match beautifully. It is also popular with a solitaire engagement ring as it compliments a more minimal style, due to it being a dainty design. this design is popular with diamonds and gemstones and will always show them off in the most glamorous way.

Channel

Channel eternity rings feature a row of diamonds which can be set all the way around the entire band. This gives a very neat appearance with all the diamonds lined up neatly. This is a great choice if you already have a channel shoulder set engagement ring or wedding ring and want to finish the matching set with a full or half-channel set eternity ring. If you have an active lifestyle or hands-on job this might be a better choice for an eternity ring as the setting protects the diamonds and keeps them safer inside the band, consider buying a channel eternity ring if you have a solitaire engagement ring too as these can compliment each other very well. 

Prong

Prong eternity rings have diamonds set on top of the ring with tall prongs allowing you to see the full depth of the diamond and offer the best sparkle for a larger carat weight statement eternity ring. This design is popular in full eternity rings, half set eternity rings, five stone eternity rings and seven stone eternity rings. It creates a well noticed and sophisticated look, and many customers tend to wear them on their own on the other hand. However, they do sit with various engagement ring styles, it all comes down to the carat weight you choose in this style to ensure one ring does not detract from the other. Many customers match the eternity ring depth with the wedding ring depth to create the perfect stack of marital rings showcasing the mesmerising sparkle of all your diamonds sitting together in harmony on your hand.

Have you got an anniversary coming up soon? Browse our eternity ring collection online or book an appointment at your local Diamond Heaven showroom today. Our friendly diamond consultants are here to find the perfect eternity ring for your partner.