A Brief History of Engagement Rings and Wedding Rings
Engagement rings are generally as simple as just a plain solid band of gold or more ornate with intricate metal detail such as channel and milgrain set diamonds. Generally, a price difference exists between engagement rings and wedding bands. Total diamond weight is usually much less in an engagement ring than in a wedding band, even when both the wedding band and engagement rings are inlaid with precious gemstones. Most couples want their engagement rings to complement the wedding rings but some prefer to look distinct from either band.
Wedding rings are much simpler. They generally have only one, two or three diamonds and are often very simplistic in design. Some couples are satisfied with a simple band, while others want a more elaborate wedding band. Brides usually prefer a simpler wedding band over a more elaborate engagement ring and couples may not choose to engrave their wedding rings with special designs or dates.
A trend in wedding rings has been the use of multiple diamonds on the engagement rings as opposed to just one. In many cases couples choose to use a matching set of wedding rings but several of them have been used on the same finger as an indicator that the couple is going to get married. These couples include friends or relatives who know the bride well. Some couples also like to use family heirlooms that have a high value or could be a gift from a long ago family member that the couple would like to keep in the wedding ceremony and also symbolizes the couple’s past together.
The cost difference between engagement rings and wedding bands is relatively small. In recent years the cost of gold has continued to increase making it more expensive than ever to buy a wedding band. In addition the number of metals used to make wedding bands has increased so that they are made of more than one metal, usually gold, silver, platinum, titanium or stainless steel. The cost of a diamond wedding band has continued to increase, but the diamond cut and style remain very unique so the price of a diamond wedding band remains affordable even for most of the typical consumer.
Engagement rings and wedding bands are worn with very different styles. For example, engagement rings worn with the matching wedding bands are worn alone while engagement rings worn with a single band are worn together. Some engagement rings are worn as engagement rings while others are worn as wedding bands and some are both.
Because the trends for engagement rings are changing so frequently, it is hard to stay up with all the latest styles. Trends can change quickly and you want to be sure you are choosing the right style before you make your purchase. If you like the latest styles then spend the extra money to get the ring set designed for your loved one. Not only will it make them look beautiful together, it will add a treasured heirloom to their legacy. Whatever type of engagement rings or wedding ring styles you are considering, take the time to find the right one for your special someone.