A Brief Guide to the Financial, Stylistic & Symbolic Differences Between Engagement & Wedding Rings

Introduction

Engagement rings and wedding rings are different yet complementary—matrimonial yin and yang, if you will. Broadly speaking, an engagement ring represents the promise of marriage, while a wedding ring seals the deal. Engagement rings are also aesthetically lavish while their wedding ring counterparts are tastefully humble. Nevertheless, together both rings represent the journey you’ve taken as a couple and your commitment to a shared future.

In this article, we discuss the financial, stylistic, and symbolic differences between an engagement ring and a wedding ring. We also provide you with tips and tricks when shopping for each.

Are Both Rings Really Necessary?

Traditionally, both the engagement and the wedding ring are an integral part of the marriage process. That said, modern day marriages are all about blending age-old traditions with personal preference. If you and your partner have other priorities—say, financing a car or mortgaging a house—consider creating your own tradition by opting for a single wedding band.

Alternatively, you can invest more money into a single wedding band instead of splitting the difference across two. This is a great way to get exactly the ring you want.

If, however, you decide to go the traditional route, you’ll quickly recognize the appeal of dual bands. An engagement ring—beautiful and opulent and diamond-encrusted—looks stunning when paired with a simple yet elegant wedding band.

Which Ring Type is More Expensive?

As recently as 2020, The Knot conducted a comprehensive survey of ring spending across the U.S. As it turns out, the national average for wedding rings ranges from $500.00 for men to $900.00 for women. Compare this with the average cost of an engagement ring—a whopping $5,500.00.

That’s a 600% to 1,100% difference!

These figures can certainly give you a moment’s pause—especially if you’re on a tight budget. Keep in mind, however, that the One-Month Salary Rule (sometimes called the Two-Month or even Three-Month Salary Rule) was invented by cunning diamond marketers near the end of the Great Depression.

So, instead of blowing through a small fortune, take the time to hone in on your partner’s expectations. What price range would make them happy? More importantly, what style would they absolutely adore? Finally, consider the symbolism behind the ring. Weave a simple but unforgettable mythology that makes each part of the ring a meaningful reflection of your relationship together.

To help get you started on devising a realistic budget, try out an engagement ring calculator.

What Are the Physical Differences Between Engagement and Wedding Rings?

As we’ve already seen, engagement rings tend to be more baroque than their unassuming wedding counterparts. This is partly because an engagement ring is only worn for a year or two. After the wedding, it becomes an optional accessory. This gives women the freedom to choose a band with more substance.

On the other hand, a wedding ring is designed to be worn in everyday situations. This demands a subtler look, allowing it to be amenable to any social situation and suffer less wear and tear over time.

As a side note, the most popular wedding ring width is between 4mm and 6mm. Keep this in mind when shopping for an engagement ring, as you want both to look elegant and cohesive when stacked. If you’re looking for a classy and timeless band, opt for either white gold or yellow gold.

What Kind of Rings do Men Wear?

Generally, men don’t wear engagement rings. Since it’s traditionally the man who proposes, it’s his job to present the ring as a symbolic token of his commitment. Even today, it’s estimated that only 5% of proposals are initiated by women. As we see a gradual shift in this trend, it’s possible that men actually will start wearing engagement rings more often!

Don’t get us wrong—a man can always choose to don an engagement band. In fact, we’ve met many men who have expressed their desire to wear one. For them, it signals to the world at large that they’re committed to marrying their partner. Celebrities like Ed Sheeran, Johnny Depp, Michael Bublé, and Charlie Sheen have all been sighted wearing engagement rings.

Like with women, a man’s ring can be either simple or ornate—it really comes down to personal preference. Though it’s true that traditional male bands are simpler than their female counterparts, times have changed. If you’re a man who loves the look of a diamond-set center band—don’t hold back!

How do I Stack my Engagement Ring with my Wedding Ring?

One question we commonly hear from a new bride is, which ring goes on first? The answer: Whichever you prefer! If the choice is purely aesthetic, consider wearing the heavier looking ring first and stack the more subtle ring on top. Usually, this translates to the engagement ring first and the wedding ring second. This complements the natural tapering of the finger

Alternatively, you might prefer the symbolism behind reversing the order. Because the wedding band is the more meaningful of the two, it’s believed that it should be worn closer to the heart—that means wedding ring first! 

Another thing to consider when stacking rings is their respective real estate. When we talk about a ring’s real estate on the finger, we’re talking about its band width. Some women opt for a 50-50, splitting the size difference equally between both bands. Other women prefer the 70-30 or even a 90-10, in favour of the engagement ring.

Keep in mind that when stacking rings, the bigger the wedding band, the smaller the engagement ring center stone will look. If you and your partner have discussed engagement ring preferences, decide whether you plan on stacking rings. If so, consider the size of the stone and whether it has a halo. These factors will affect both the look and logistics of stacking!

Do We Need Matching Wedding Bands?

Since the 1980’s, matching wedding bands have dwindled in popularity. Today, couples no longer feel the need to compromise their personal taste for the sake of uniformity.

Part of the shift is due to the increasing diversity in available ring materials. Though sterling silver, gold, and platinum are still classic choices, new options like tungsten, titanium, ceramic, and even wood are all gaining in popularity

If you do want matching bands, it’s best to visit the jeweller’s together. In our experience, women usually help men choose a ring. Since most men are inexperienced when it comes to buying and wearing jewellery, this can be a big and scary decision.

What About Engravings?

Think about it like this: an engagement ring is more about appearances, while a wedding ring is more about personal meaning. This explains why engagement rings aren’t usually engraved, while wedding rings almost always are.

So—what to engrave? It’s totally up to you! You can go the simple and straightforward route of engraving a date (like your wedding date, the date you met, or any other important date). Or, if you’re feeling a little more creative, engrave a few special words. Check out this article for some engraving inspo.

Which Ring has More Symbolic Value?

Between an engagement ring and a wedding ring, the wedding ring has greater symbolic value. Think about it—an engagement ring is a commitment you make to your partner to marry them. A wedding ring, on the other hand, is a commitment you make to your partner to be with them forever.

Which one of these commitments has more oomph?

This semantic difference is also the reason that a wedding band is more likely to become family heirloom, rather than an engagement ring. Though engagement rings are often more striking, the sentimental value of a wedding ring is simply unparalleled.

Conclusion

Now that you know the differences between an engagement ring and a wedding ring, it’s time for the fun part—choosing your own! Remember to take the time to consider the financial, stylistic, and symbolic value of each ring. This will help you pinpoint the perfect bands for you and your love.

Not sure where to begin? Visit us at Majesty Diamonds to speak with one of our seasoned professionals or shop our online collection!