Eternity Rings
Beyond the most familiar types of rings like engagement rings and wedding bands, there are new styles of diamond jewelry, such as right hand rings and elegant eternity rings.
What are Eternity Rings?
Eternity rings are also called “dress” wedding rings, diamond infinity rings, and diamond bands. Lined with diamonds, eternity bands often appear to be a circle of gemstones. The continuous loop of diamonds is symbolic of unending, eternal love, making them popular gifts for significant occasions in a couple’s relationship, such as a monumental anniversary (often 20 years or more), overcoming tremendous obstacles, or celebrating a child’s birth.
Ring Designs
Because of the simplicity of eternity rings, there are fewer design variations than with engagement rings. Nevertheless, there are differences between styles, and couples can choose a setting, metal, shape, or other characteristic to reflect their individual preferences.
Full vs. Half
Full rings have a complete circle of gems, while half rings only have stones along one portion of the ring. Because full eternity bands must be individually sized and cannot later be resized, half-eternity bands are generally more popular. Furthermore, many women prefer to have the stones concentrated on the front of the ring so they are visible, though one of the biggest benefits of full bands is that as the ring rotates on the finger, the stones are still displayed.
Stone Shapes and Sizes
Because these rings require that stones be nestled closely together, compact shapes are the most popular, including round, princess, and emerald cuts. Rings do not usually mix stone shapes or sizes, in order to preserve the continuity of the design, though alternating patterns can be found.
Because full eternity rings have stones around the entire finger, only smaller gems can be used for comfort. Half-eternity rings can use slightly larger stones, but large carat weights may start to resemble three stone rings or bridal sets rather than bands. Because of the number of stones used in eternity bands, the total weight of the band may be far greater than traditional engagement rings, and in order to make the rings more affordable many consumers prefer smaller stones.
Types of Stones
Diamond and Aquamarine Eternity Ring.
Diamonds are indisputably the most popular stones, but they are not the only options. Rubies, sapphires, tanzanite, and emeralds are also frequent choices, usually paired with diamonds in an alternating or repeating pattern around the ring. Couples may choose birthstones or other symbolic gems to make the ring more unique and significant.
Setting Styles
Because eternity designs have very close-set stones, setting choices can be limited. Prong settings give the ring the appearance of being composed only of diamonds, similar to a pave setting. Channel settings are popular because they are easy to manufacture and hold the gems securely. Bar settings place a bar of gold or platinum between each gem or creating a pattern among the stones, while more elaborate styles may have curved-S settings, bezels, or even figural settings such as vines, leaves, and flowers.
Wearing an Eternity Ring
Many women choose to replace either their wedding band or engagement ring with the eternity rather than wear three separate rings. If the rings are slender and do not look out of proportion with your fingers, however, it is perfectly acceptable to wear an eternity band in addition to other significant rings. Take care that the eternity band's setting is compatible with adjacent pieces, however: uneven settings such as prongs may rub against other rings and cause scratches. Channel settings are the most practical and can fit snugly against other rings without causing damage. Like any delicate jewelry, eternity rings should be removed before household chores, sporting activities, or other potentially hazardous pursuits.
Cost Considerations
Eternity pieces vary in cost from several hundred to several thousand dollars. Characteristics affecting the price of an eternity ring include:
Type of metal: yellow gold, white gold, platinum, or titanium
Stone quality: size, shape, flaws or inclusions, color, etc.
Ring size: larger rings require more diamonds to create an eternity band
Use of alternative gemstones or synthetic stones
Because full eternity rings must be customized and stones must be size-matched, the price can be significantly greater than for a traditional diamond ring, even using smaller or lower-quality stones. Many couples consider cutting the cost of an eternity ring by opting for a half-eternity design or using lower quality stones (with such small gems, flaws are not typically as noticeable). Another option is to have stones set into a band in a flush setting, so the stones do not need to actually meet but they still encircle the metal at regular intervals. This style uses far fewer gems and is generally more affordable.
Where to Buy
Many jewelers carry variations of eternity bands, though store models typically have false stones to save production costs. Patrons can examine different ring styles and discuss options before having the actual ring manufactured, while half-eternity variations are frequently available immediately. Whether the couple prefers independent designers or chain stores, they are sure to find a selection of eternity rings to consider.
Diamonds are indisputably beautiful, and few rings are as striking as eternity designs. Despite size and style limitations, there are many variations of eternities to choose from, so long as the couple acknowledges the ultimate purpose of the ring: to celebrate the eternity they hope to share with a life as unending as a circle of diamonds.
