An eternity ring is a timeless piece of jewellery symbolising enduring commitment.
In this guide, we will explore the definition and origins of the eternity ring, the sentiment behind its meaning, and the occasions on which it is most often given. We will explore the range of styles, and consider how they can be worn alone or together with engagement and wedding rings.
What is an Eternity Ring?
An eternity ring is a distinguished piece of jewellery, celebrated for its elegance and symbolic meaning. Unlike a plain band, its defining feature is the placement of diamonds or coloured gemstones set into the ring, creating a line of brilliance that represents continuity and devotion. The stones may be arranged to circle the entire band in a full eternity style, cover the upper half in a half eternity style, or extend to any point in between. This flexibility allows the eternity ring to be tailored to both personal taste and practical considerations.
When Do You Get an Eternity Ring?
Eternity rings are traditionally gifted to mark particularly meaningful moments in a marriage or partnership. They are often given to celebrate a wedding anniversary, the birth of a child, a milestone birthday, or other personal achievements, though there are no set rules or specific timeframes to follow. Some are presented as a surprise, while others are chosen together, making the occasion a shared expression of devotion. Ultimately, the timing is personal, allowing the ring to reflect the significance of the moment and the bond it represents.
How Do You Wear an Eternity Ring?
For those who already wear a wedding and engagement ring, the eternity ring is often worn alongside them on the left-hand ring finger. With regard to the order, the most common arrangements are:
- Wedding ring at the base, followed by the engagement ring, then the eternity ring.
- Wedding ring at the base, followed by the eternity ring, then the engagement ring.
Many are drawn to the tradition of placing the wedding ring closest to the heart, a practice dating back to ancient Egypt, symbolising eternal love and commitment.
It is also becoming increasingly popular to wear the eternity ring on the right-hand ring finger. This allows the ring to be admired as an individual piece or to vary the style from other rings already being worn, giving the wearer freedom to mix metals, styles, and widths without concern.
How to Choose the Right Eternity Ring
Choosing the perfect eternity ring comes down to personal taste and lifestyle. To make it easier, we’ve broken the options into three main types: half eternity rings, full eternity rings, and coloured stone eternity rings. Each style has its own characteristics and will be explored in more detail below.
Half Eternity Rings
Half eternity rings are often more popular than full eternity rings, thanks to their stylish yet practical design. A half eternity ring is a band set with diamonds across the top half, or just shy of it.
One of the main advantages of a half eternity ring is practicality. With no stones on the underside of the finger, it is less exposed to everyday knocks and impacts. The design also allows for easier resizing, offering a flexibility that full eternity rings typically do not provide.
In terms of cost, half eternity rings are often more affordable than full eternity rings, though this can vary. A half eternity ring featuring fewer, larger stones can sometimes be more expensive than a full eternity ring with smaller stones all the way around. Pricing is largely determined by cost per carat, which increases with the rarity of larger, high-quality stones.
Full Eternity Rings
A full eternity ring is set with diamonds around the entire finger, forming a continuous band of brilliance. From the earliest designs, it was conceived as a complete circle, symbolising eternal love and unbroken commitment.
The uninterrupted line of diamonds offers a captivating sparkle from every angle, making it a striking choice for those who appreciate timeless elegance. However, with stones set all the way around, extra care is required during wear, particularly on the underside of the finger where the ring is more exposed to knocks. Getting the perfect finger size is essential, as adjusting a full eternity ring can be difficult, and in some cases, may not be possible at all.
Coloured Stone Eternity Rings
Coloured stone eternity rings feature gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds, or rubies, and can be created as either half eternity rings or full eternity rings. Coloured gemstones often hold personal significance, such as a birthstone, a stone chosen to celebrate the arrival of a child (traditionally blue sapphires for boys and rubies or pink sapphires for girls), or a gem sourced from a location meaningful to the wearer or their family. Some designs alternate coloured stones with diamonds, while others showcase a band of a single hue for a striking, distinctive look.
The most popular choice of coloured gemstone shape is a round cut, though a wide variety of cuts are available. The final selection is often guided by the style of other jewellery pieces, ensuring a harmonious and coordinated appearance.
Summary
Eternity rings are a timeless symbol of love and commitment, offered in a variety of styles to suit individual taste. Whether selecting a practical half eternity, a luxurious full eternity, or a distinctive coloured stone ring, each design carries its own beauty and significance. Worn alone or alongside engagement and wedding rings, an eternity ring is a versatile and enduring piece that marks life’s most meaningful moments.
Discover the exquisite collection of eternity rings at Rennie & Co, or book a personal consultation to find the perfect ring for you or your loved one.
