Engagement Ring vs Wedding Ring

The engagement ring marks the promise: it is given at the proposal and worn through the engagement. The wedding ring marks the marriage itself: it is exchanged during the ceremony, and in most couples both partners wear one.

An engagement ring is usually built around a centre stone, raised in a setting that catches the light. A wedding ring is usually a band: plain metal, or set with small diamonds that sit flush or close to the surface, made to be worn every day without catching.

Many people choose a wedding band that complements the engagement ring in metal and width, so the two look considered together. Our wedding band guide and our guide to wedfit rings cover how they fit side by side.

Traditionally, the wedding ring goes on first, closest to the hand, with the engagement ring above it. On the wedding day itself, many people move the engagement ring to the other hand so the wedding ring can be placed on the finger first, then move it back afterwards.

Some people wear only one of the two day to day, keeping the engagement ring for occasions, or wear the engagement ring on the other hand. There is no rule you have to follow.

No. Some couples skip the engagement ring and invest in wedding rings. Others choose an engagement ring that doubles as a wedding ring, such as a band set with diamonds. And some choose a single ring that does both jobs. The tradition is a starting point, not an obligation.