The eternity ring has become a staple of jewellery and is used to celebrate special and symbolic occasions of eternal love. These eternity rings can be found in many designs, styles, and prices. Are you planning to buy or give an eternity ring? Take a look! Here we will tell you everything you need to know about this beautiful jewel, from its symbolism to its kinds so that you can make a good choice. Read to the end!
What is an eternity ring?
An eternity ring is a metal band with no beginning and no end, and is surrounded by diamonds or other precious stones, lined up side by side for the entire length of the ring. It is called an “eternity” ring because it symbolizes the eternal thing.
These rings are often worn as wedding bands, but they also have other functions. There are a variety of designs when it comes to eternity rings, whether they are highly ornate or very simple.
Difference between eternity rings and wedding rings
The main difference between these two types of rings is that an eternity ring can be a kind of wedding ring, but not all wedding rings are eternity rings. As we mentioned, eternity rings also have multiple functions and can be worn for various reasons.
Symbolism of the eternity rings
This kind of ring is very symbolic and this is part of its endless appeal. The circular shape of the ring symbolizes eternity, but it also represents equality, wholeness, perfection and eternal love. Diamonds alone symbolize love, fidelity, strength, purity, trust, and truth.
When the symbolism of rings and diamonds is put together, it results in a jewel that has a lot of meaning. It is ideal as a gift between couples, family members and very close friends.
When is an eternity ring given as a gift?
While eternity rings were initially intended for an older demographic, this is no longer the case. Since the 1960s, eternity rings have become the favourite ones among couples of all ages.
Eternity rings or bands are commonly used as wedding rings and the groom hands them to the bride at the altar. They are also a popular wedding anniversary gift.
There are no rules when giving them away. Some couples choose an eternity ring as their engagement ring, others give it as a promise ring, a birthday present, a Valentine’s gift, or a special gift for a new mom.
In short, if you are considering whether an eternity ring is suitable for the occasion you have in mind, it probably is.
How to wear an eternity ring?
For those who choose an eternity ring as their wedding ring, strictly speaking, it would make sense to wear the ring on the ring finger of the left hand since this is known as the wedding ring finger.
However, if your eternity ring is an anniversary gift, a new mom gift, or is to commemorate some other occasion, you can wear the ring on any finger where you feel it comfortable. Again, there are no rules about this, so choose what feels right to you.
An interesting fact
There are two main categories in which eternity rings can be found: full eternity and half eternity.
Full eternity refers to a ring where the stones surround the entire circumference of the ring. For its part, half eternity only has stones that surround half of the circumference.
Full eternity rings can be more expensive than half eternity as they have more diamonds and require more work. They are also more difficult to resize.
Kinds of eternity ring settings
The kind of the eternity ring setting is also extremely important, since it is what gives each ring a certain peculiarity. There are four major kinds:
Claw setting in eternity rings
The claw setting, also called peg setting, is the most common kind of eternity ring setting. It has tips that hold the diamonds securely in place. These tips can be seen from the sides and the top view of the ring.
Channel setting in eternity rings
With this kind of setting, the diamonds are set in a groove or channel in the metal. Diamonds are often set flush against the metal or just below and are set side by side without any metal separating them. The benefit of the channel setting is that it can be more secure than a claw setting and creates a smooth, continuous line of diamonds that surround the band.
Pave setting in eternity rings
The pave settings have diamonds that are set together in the metal like paving stones, hence their name. When small diamond melees are worn, it is known as a micro pave setting. This eternity ring setting is very brilliant due to the large number of diamonds used.
Cut setting in eternity rings
With this kind of setting, the diamonds are set in a cut in the metal that holds the stones securely. There are no visible metal spikes or grooves to hold them in place, allowing for greater exposure of the stone to light, thus increasing the light output of the diamonds.
What is the best metal for eternity rings?
Most diamond eternity rings are set in platinum or gold. This is because these metals are not only prestigious and precious, but also durable, valuable, and aesthetically pleasing. Setting diamonds in sterling silver or alternative metals like titanium, stainless steel, or tungsten would devalue the diamonds themselves. After all, adiamond eternity ring is destined to be a prestigious piece of jewellery.
Can an eternity ring be resized?
One of the main problems with full eternity rings is that they are very difficult or impossible to resize, it all comes down to the skill of the jeweller and whether he is willing to get the job done in the first place, but most retailers won’t take it. However, half eternity bands can be resized.
ALFA