Ring Etiquette

Does my engagement ring have to have a diamond?

Your engagement ring does not have to have a diamond. The diamond is traditionally what is used in an engagement ring, but really your choice is what is most important. If you prefer a colored gemstone, or if you prefer no gemstone at all that's really your choice, and it is really up to you. Jewelry sales professionals should be able to help you with any of those choices.

What's the weirdest engagement ring you've ever seen?

The weirdest engagement ring that I've heard about, that I've ever seen, is really a matter of subjectivity. I've seen engagement rings that are made with multiple different colored stones. I've seen an engagement ring in the shape of the state of Texas. I have seen an engagement ring that was made with a diamond cut in the shape of the Chicago Bulls logo. I've heard of engagement rings in multicolor. I've actually seen an engagement ring that was made from an aluminium pipe that was actually cut and polished to represent their relationship. Really, it's a matter of subjectivity. To some people, a diamond engagement ring is weird enough.

Can my engagement ring be my wedding band also?

Your engagement ring absolutely can be your wedding band. Many people prefer a one ring set up. Some folks actually prefer two rings. But if you prefer to have your engagement ring also be your wedding band that's absolutely okay. It's a matter of taste.

On what finger should I wear my wedding band?

Your wedding band is traditionally worn on the left hand, on the ring finger. They say that the reason you wear it there is because the Lord says that you have a vein that goes directly from this finger to your heart. It's called vena amoris.

On what finger should I wear my engagement ring before I am married?

Again, traditionally, you wear your engagement ring on the left hand on the ring finger, and on the day of the wedding you take that wedding ring off and at the alter or during the ceremony both rings are then put on the same finger.

On what finger should I wear my engagement ring after I am married?

Your engagement ring is traditionally worn on the left hand ring finger throughout, whether it's prior to the marriage, at the ceremony and beyond. However, if you choose later to change the look of that engagement ring, you can absolutely pass it over and create a right hand ring from it, and put the new wedding band on your left hand.

Can I wear my engagement ring and wedding band on the same finger?

Traditionally, people do wear the engagement ring and a wedding band on the same finger on their left hand. When they do that, they usually shop and get a set of rings that go together well, that match. We recommend that when you're shopping for the wedding band, you bring the engagement ring along to make sure that it fits up against it comfortably, so that it matches, and that it's your taste.