June 14, 2025

A Complete Guide: The Difference Between Wedding Bands and Engagement Rings

Not sure about what’s the difference between an engagement ring and a wedding band? While both natural and lab grown diamonds Vancouver rings signify eternity in love, they also carry a different message and role in marriage. In this guide, we will explore the difference between a wedding band and an engagement ring. Read more to find out:

What Is a Diamond Engagement Ring?

An engagement ring is a form of promise given to someone during a marriage proposal. It symbolizes that you promise to marry your partner. On the other hand, diamond engagement rings are considered special because they represent the eternal bond shared between you and your partner.

You will find a diverse collection of diamond engagement rings in diamond stores Vancouver. This includes diamonds in popular settings such as solitaire, halo, or eternity rings. Traditionally, the engagement ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand, which is the fourth finger next to your pinky finger.

What Is a Diamond Engagement Ring?
SMC Diamond Ring
The Most Expensive Diamond Shape

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What Is a Diamond Wedding Ring?

A wedding ring, also known as a wedding band, is exchanged at the wedding ceremony. It represents the union of marriage between two individuals. Wedding bands are simpler than engagement rings. Diamond wedding bands are available in a variety of metals, such as yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and platinum, similar to engagement rings.

Wedding Bands

Differences Between a Diamond Engagement and Wedding Ring

Understanding the difference between engagement ring and wedding band is crucial to prevent confusion. Here’s a quick comparison between the two:

Differences Between a Diamond Engagement and Wedding Ring

When it comes to engagement ring versus wedding band, the main difference lies in the symbolism. Engagement rings are a form of a promise to marry your partner, while wedding bands represent lifelong commitment.

Read Also: The 4Cs of Diamond Quality: What You Should Know as a Buyer 

Do You Need Both Rings?

There is no strict rule that requires you to wear both rings every day. Some couples choose to wear only one ring because single rings can be worn easily. You can also look out for bridal sets in lab-grown and natural diamonds Vancouver that help you get a matching engagement ring and matching wedding band in one set, without needing to worry about how to pair both of them together. Ultimately, whether you choose to wear one or both of them every day is about your personal preference.

diamond wedding band

How Are Both the Rings Worn Together?

According to customs and traditions, both the engagement ring and wedding band are worn on the ring finger of your left hand. This is how you should wear it:

  • Before the Wedding Ceremony: The engagement ring is traditionally worn on the ring finger.
  • During the Wedding Ceremony: The engagement ring is temporarily shifted to the right hand.
  • After the Wedding Ceremony: The wedding band is worn on the ring finger of the left hand, and later, it is stacked together with the engagement ring.

The History Behind Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands

To understand the difference between a wedding band and engagement ring, we need to know the history of the tradition! The tradition of wearing a wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand began with the ancient Egyptians. They believed that the circle symbolized eternity. This tradition spread to different parts of the world and is still followed to this day. 

On the other hand, one of the earliest recorded diamond engagement rings was given by the Archduke Maximilian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. Over the years, the style and use of the ring evolved to what we see today!

Wedding Bands

Read More: How Diamond Carat Is Measured: A Complete Guide

Conclusion: Engagement Ring Versus Wedding Band

Knowing the difference between engagement rings and wedding bands is important due to their significance in traditions and customs. Both of the rings represent different meanings and hold equal importance. The engagement ring represents a promise, while the wedding band symbolizes lifelong commitment.  

Define Your Forever Through Our Fine Collection of Diamond Rings

Explore our extensive collection of engagement rings and wedding bands and find the perfect set to immortalize your love. Visit our store or call us today.

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