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Eternity Rings vs. Anniversary Rings: What’s The Difference?

Jewelry that is given in the name of love always has extra sparkle. Eternity rings and anniversary rings definitely fall into this category. Symbolic of life-changing moments and epic love, these diamonds are not just your best friend but remind you of your best friend.

Eternity Rings vs. Anniversary Rings

Eternity Rings vs. Anniversary Rings: What’s The Difference?

While similarly popular, eternity rings and anniversary rings are different in both look and purpose. From the number of stones to the style of the band and the dates they are given, we explain the differences and clear up which ring you should buy and when.

Eternity rings are characterized by a band of endless diamonds, while anniversary rings feature a row of diamonds on the upper half of the band. Both consistently feature diamonds, which is not necessarily the case for wedding rings.

What Is An Eternity Ring?

Eternity rings are characterized by a band of uninterrupted diamonds. That means the diamonds go all the way around the band with no interruption.

They are available in a variety of diamond shapes and sizes, as well as different metal types. Eternity rings have come to be given on very special occasions, and have become a popular wedding rings trend.

When Should You Buy Or Gift An Eternity Ring?

Eternity rings are given on birthdays, landmark anniversaries (such as at the five, ten, and twenty-year marks), or even graduation!

14K White Gold Low Dome Basket Lab-Created Diamond Eternity Ring (2 CTW F-G / VS2-SI1)

What Do Eternity Rings Symbolize?

The seemingly never-ending diamonds symbolize your never-ending love.

These diamonds are your pledge to your partner that you will love them beyond forever! Making this piece of jewelry a truly sentimental piece to gift to your loved one or buy as a wedding ring.

How To Wear An Eternity Ring

While there are no hard and fast rules, eternity rings are often worn next to the engagement ring and wedding ring sitting on the ring finger on your left hand.

When choosing an eternity ring, you want to keep in mind the style of the engagement and wedding rings.

There are also daintier eternity rings perfect for layering with other stackable rings.

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If you like a consistent look, then you’ll want to stick to the same diamond shape. So, if your engagement ring features an Asscher cut diamond, you’ll want to stick with that and choose an Asscher cut eternity ring.

Whatever style you choose, your eternity ring will certainly enhance the radiance not just of your ring finger, but of your whole hand!

14K White Gold Asscher Cut Diamond Eternity Ring (4 CTW H-I / SI1-SI2)

14K White Gold Petite Pavé Cathedral Engagement Ring

Pro Tip: When choosing your eternity ring KNOW YOUR SIZE! Eternity rings are VERY hard to resize because the entire band is covered in diamonds. Often, it simply isn’t possible.

If the ring is a surprise, click here to get tips and tricks to get your partner’s ring size. Measure their finger in their sleep if you have to! We promise it is easier than trying to resize an eternity ring.

What Is An Anniversary Ring?

Anniversary rings are often given on your wedding anniversary and are meant to enhance your wedding ring. They feature diamonds with a variety of settings, along with half the band, which is available in multiple metals. The metal of an anniversary ring is also chosen to complement an existing wedding band.

When Should You Buy Or Gift An Anniversary Ring?

Rings are a VERY popular choice for an anniversary gift. Traditionally, gold is the gift for your first wedding anniversary, so for this event, many couples will choose a white or yellow gold band as seen below:

14K White Gold Seven Stone Emerald Cut Diamond Ring (1.00 CTW - H-I / SI1-SI2)

14K Yellow Gold Seven Stone Cushion Shape Diamond Ring (1.50 CTW - H-I / SI1-SI2)

Whether choosing a five, seven, or nine stone option, you can’t go wrong with an anniversary ring. Enough diamonds for those who want to look ballin’ but not so much for those who prefer a quieter glam.

What Do Anniversary Rings Symbolize?

Anniversary rings, often given to commemorate milestone years in a marriage or relationship, symbolize the enduring love, commitment, and shared experiences between partners. These rings are a meaningful reminder of a couple’s journey and their continued devotion to one another.

How To Wear An Anniversary Ring

So, if your engagement ring and wedding ring are on your ring finger on your left hand, where do you wear your anniversary ring? Literally, any finger you want! One of the beauties of an anniversary ring is that there is no “traditional” finger to wear them on, so choose any finger you like!

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Many people do choose to wear their anniversary ring on the ring finger on their right hand (the finger next to your pinky). This allows the ring to compliment your engagement, eternity, and wedding rings, but also stand out on its own.

Which Ring Is Right For You?

Eternity Rings Anniversary Rings
Diamonds All Around The BandDiamonds On Top Half Of The Band
VERY Difficult To ResizePopular For Wedding Anniversaries
Great For Any Special OccasionAvailable In Five, Seven, Or Nine Stones
Symbolize Unending LoveSymbolize Continued Commitment

FAQs

Can I customize the design of eternity and anniversary rings?

Yes, both types of rings can be customized based on metal choice, gemstone selection, and design preferences. Many jewelers and online jewelers offer customization options.

Can men wear eternity or anniversary rings?

Why not? While these rings are often associated with women, men can also wear them if it suits their personal style.

How do I choose between an eternity ring and an anniversary ring?

The best way to choose is to look at your partner’s style and also the symbolism you want to convey with your gift.

What is the main difference between eternity rings and anniversary rings? Eternity rings are adorned with a continuous band of identical gemstones, symbolizing never-ending love. Anniversary rings, on the other hand, can feature a variety of designs and gem arrangements, often marking specific years of marriage or milestones.

What is the main difference between eternity rings and anniversary rings?

Eternity rings are typically adorned with a continuous band of identical gemstones, symbolizing never-ending love. Anniversary rings, on the other hand, can feature a variety of designs and gem arrangements, often marking specific years of marriage or milestones.

Let’s Sum It Up

Eternity and anniversary rings are a gorgeous way to express your love for your partner. Something they can always wear that will always be in style. These rings tell your partner how special they are without you even having to utter the words.

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Sarah Axelrad

With over 10 years of experience writing and editing on a wide variety of subjects, Sarah is a veteran of the content world. Since joining James Allen, she has focused on all things diamonds and fine jewelry with the goal of educating and empowering consumers.

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Engraved Rings: All You Need To Know

Getting your jewelry engraved with a personalized message is the ultimate way to create a unique and thoughtful sentiment. 

Engraved rings

Engraved rings are the romantic gesture you never knew you needed. Not only is it reasonably easy to get your wedding ring or engagement ring custom-engraved, but it’s affordable too. 

Perhaps you and your partner have an inside joke you want to be engraved on your wedding rings. Maybe, you’re planning on adding that personal touch but have no idea what to put on your engraved ring? That’s where we come in.

We have plenty of romantic, funny, and traditional ideas to share with you as well as some helpful facts and tips about engraving your rings and jewelry. Read on to learn more and get inspired. 

Engraved Engagement Rings

Planning a proposal is one thing, but gifting your love with a custom-engraved engagement ring will take the touching moment to a whole new level. When engraving engagement rings, sentiment plays a huge role, but personality is definitely more important, so skies the limit.

Dare to be cute, funny, and even a little cheesy! Your proposal is sure to be a happy and memorable occasion, so use this opportunity to make sure the inscription you choose adds to the laughs, smiles, and happy tears. 

Here are some romantic and funny ideas for engagement ring engravings:

Romantic:

  • I love you 
  • Yours forever 
  • My eternity 
  • Keeper of my heart
  • All my love
  • Yours eternally 
  • Mine forever, always yours 

Funny: 

  • Resistance is futile 
  • Non-refundable 
  • Dibs
  • Do not remove 
  • Finders keepers 
  • Why is this off? 
  • Insert finger here 

Our tip: keep this engraving a secret (if your partner has helped you pick out or design the engagement ring, this will make the reveal so much sweeter. 

Six-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K White Gold 2mm Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring (Six Prong)

“STRONGEST TOGETHER”

Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K White Gold 2mm Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

“As Flawless as You”

Engraved Wedding Rings

Wedding rings – the final piece of forever that seals the deal when you and your partner say, “I do.” For this magical moment in time, your engraved rings should hold the utmost sentiment.

Unlike an engagement ring, this engraving should bring a tear to the eye and tug on those heartstrings.

We recommend going traditional here: 

  • Add your wedding location 
  • A line from your wedding song 
  • A line from a poem you both love 
  • A bible verse 
  • The date of your wedding
  • The date you first met  
  • Your initials 
  • Mr & Mrs _____
  • Split message; you will be one half of a whole, after all! 

Our tip: take your time to choose the perfect engraving for your wedding ring. Either work with your partner to do a split message or use a combination of ideas you both like. 

Engraved Anniversary Rings

Celebrate your anniversary with a stunning anniversary ring or check out our range of sparkling eternity rings for alternative options. We have a couple of lovely ideas for engravings to make this milestone truly memorable.

  • The date of your honeymoon 
  • The initials of your children 
  • The dates of your child/children’s birthdays 
  • The written number of years you’ve been together 
  • An image of your choice (two hearts) or something that represents you two 
  • A sentimental quote like, “still going strong” or “as beautiful/handsome as the day we met” 

Our tip: we know it’s not always easy to think of a suitable inscription and so remember that it’s okay to wait until you know what the perfect engraving is. It can always be added in the future. 

The Most Asked Questions About Engravings

Traditionally, engravings are done by machines that use a diamond tip instrument and a clamping technique. However, with the introduction of the latest technology, laser engravings, your choice of engravings on your wedding, anniversary, or engagement ring are now boundless. 

What is Laser Engraving?

Laser engraving is performed using a machine equipped with a pencil-like laser that a person or artist controls. A laser beam allows the device to trace words, images, symbols, and patterns, to create the perfect custom engraved rings. Laser engraving can be done on just about any surface and works on all precious and alternative metals. 

Fun fact: Laser engraving is different from machine engraving, as it allows for more accurate engravings with clear-cut and deeper lines. Plus, it’s not limited to any particular font either.  

Pavé Knife Edge Lotus Basket Engagement Ring 

14K White Gold Pavé Knife Edge Lotus Basket Engagement Ring

““Mein Schatz” (my sweetheart)”

Matching Pavé Wedding Ring

14K Yellow Gold Matching Pavé Wedding Band

“I FOUND LOVE 3-14-19”

Why is Laser Engraving Easier to Read?

Laser engraving is much easier to read than machine engraving because it has a higher precision rate. It doesn’t chip away at the metal, and there is no wear and tear from tool usage because it’s a laser. 

The laser burns the metal, turning the messaging or imagery darker, making it easier to read. The laser is also more detail-driven and can produce the tiniest features, making unique personalized engraved rings or jewelry all the more appealing. 

Thin Channel Set Engagement Ring 

14K White Gold Thin Channel Set Round Shaped Diamond Engagement Ring

“YOU HAVE MY HEART”

Matching Filigree Wedding Ring

Platinum Matching Wedding Band

“I KNEW I’D MARRY YOU”

Will the Engraving Scratch off?

Our rings go through natural erosion the longer we wear them. Men’s wedding rings, for example, often need to be polished and mended for damage or breakage. The tougher your lifestyle, the more strain your ring will take long-term. 

If you’re planning to make a personalized engraving on the outside of your ring, chances are, somewhere along the line, you may need to have the engraving redone. But, the durability of the engraving relies mainly on the durability of the metal itself.

Opt for stronger metals like tungsten or platinum when engraving on the ring’s exterior, as softer metals, like white gold, are more vulnerable to chips and scratches. 

On a more encouraging note, engravings on the inside of a ring are likely never to wear away or become scratched, no matter the ring’s metal. 

What’s the Cost for Engraving?

Laser engraved wedding bands are the most popular jewelry to receive personalized messages and details. Experts estimate that getting a ring engraved can cost between $25 for up to 30 characters, including spaces. 

Here at James Allen, our customers can opt for a free engraving at checkout, on us! We offer you the choice between block or script fonts. You choose the engraving and we’ll take care of the rest. 

Pro tip: choose the block font if your band is less than 2mm thick. 

Keep Us In Mind

Here at James Allen, we love the little extra things we can do to make your experience all the more special. If you want to learn more about engraved rings, see our featured articles below. 

Don’t forget that you get your own customer engraving for free with any ring purchased from our on-site store. Contact our 24/7 customer service agents for any questions. We’re happy to help you find the ring of your dreams or the perfect gift for your loved one. 

Searching for more wedding ring engraving ideas? Read more below!

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Jessica Thomas

Jessica is a seasoned content writer with four years of experience and a qualified gemologist. She enjoys educating new shoppers on the best practices for buying jewelry.

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