How to Wear a Wedding Band and Engagement Ring

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A wedding band and engagement ring are both intended to symbolize a couple's love for one another. But, there is no one set way to wear these pieces of jewelry. You can go with the traditional ring finger placement or try out something new, like rotating the rings out over time. In fact, it's even possible to merge the band and engagement ring into one piece of jewelry. Keep an open mind and you are sure to find a wearing option that suits your lifestyle and your love.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Choosing Your Ring Placement

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  1. This is the traditional option that many brides and grooms choose. The rings go on the ring finger of that hand, which is the one between your middle and pinky. The order of the rings is up to you, but the engagement ring usually goes on first followed by the wedding band.
  2. You can also choose to slide your wedding band on first, followed by your engagement ring. Some people prefer this arrangement for romantic reasons, as it places your band closer to your heart. You could also choose this set-up if it is more comfortable or fits your hand better.
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  3. Some people choose to wear both rings on their left hand from the start. Others choose to initially put their engagement ring on their right hand ring finger. Then, immediately before the wedding ceremony, they'll transfer the engagement ring over from their right hand to their left one.
  4. If you don't want the heaviness of multiple rings on one finger or if you have shorter fingers, than you may want to separate the rings. One option is to make them parallel by sliding one on each of your ring fingers.
    • This also provides a way for you to showcase each of your rings on their own.
  5. Keep one of your rings in your jewelry box and only take it out for important events. In this case, most people wear their wedding band every day and put their engagement ring on reserve. This has the benefit of keeping at least one of your rings in excellent condition over time. [1]
    • Some women find wearing one ring simpler, especially if they have to take the ring off for certain activities, such as working out.
    • Since the wedding band is usually simpler, it is often the one that is worn on a daily basis.
  6. There really isn't one right or wrong way to wear your rings. It's your choice and something that you'll need to embrace on a daily basis. Remember that you can always mix it up and go from one wearing arrangement to another as often as you like.
    • It can help to understand the meaning behind each ring. An engagement ring is usually a promise of future marriage. A wedding band is given during an actual marriage ceremony.
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Selecting Your Rings

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  1. This band and ring are meant to be worn together. They can be made out of the same metal and may also have a similar finish. The style should be complementary too. This is a good choice for someone who knows that they want to wear both rings at the same time, but would prefer to have them perfectly paired. [2]
  2. This is a type of matched set where the wedding band conforms to the edge of the center gemstone on the engagement ring. This means that both rings can be worn without them jangling or moving around too much. However, if you wear your band separately it will have an angled appearance in the middle. [3]
  3. While the traditional wedding band is often quite basic, more couples are choosing elaborate bands containing precious stones and unique metals, like platinum. These bands are often called “eternity bands” due to their more elaborate appearance. This is a great option for someone who wants the simplicity of the band with the beauty of an engagement ring. [4] [5]
  4. This is when you place a series of rings together on one finger alongside your wedding band or engagement ring. Or, the series could take the place of a single ring or band. To get the best look, its best if the rings match in some way, whether it be through similar stones or metals. It's also a good idea to keep them fairly thin, unless you want your finger weighed down. [6]
    • Some people choose to accumulate a stacked ring gradually by adding a band after special events, such as anniversaries. Over the years this means that you could have multiple interchangeable rings or bands.
  5. Go to a professional jeweler and ask them to solder your band and ring together into a single piece of jewelry. Many people enjoy the symbolism behind this gesture, as the rings become unified in a similar way as a couple does through marriage. But, this process may not be fully reversible, so consider it carefully. [7]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Personalizing Your Rings

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  1. You'll hopefully end up wearing your engagement ring, your wedding band, or both for a very long time. This means that you should only select rings that you will enjoy over the years. With that in mind, it's best to shy away from fads and embrace your core style. [8]
  2. Placement is important, but it won't matter as much if one of your rings falls off your hand. Before you purchase your rings, get your finger sized properly by a professional jeweler. Then, test out the fit when you get the actual ring. It should slide over your knuckle easily, but should not be overly loose.
    • Be aware that your ring size might change over time or due to certain health events, such as pregnancy. Check your rings every so often to make sure that they are still fit comfortably on your finger.
  3. On the interior of your rings you can choose to have a date or a few words etched into the metal. This is one way that couples can enjoy matching rings without it being obvious on the outside. Most rings are capable of inscription, but it's best to talk with a jeweler about the process. [9]
    • For example, it is quite common for couples to put their wedding date on the inside of their ring bands. You could also get the date of your engagement etched inside your engagement ring.
  4. There are many different ways to wear bands and rings adhered to by people around the world. Educate yourself about traditions that might hold meaning for you and make a choice about whether or not to follow them. [10]
    • For example, in some countries, such as Austria, the wedding band is worn on the right hand.
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Expert Q&A

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  • Question
    What's a unique way I can wear my wedding band and engagement ring together?
    Nicole Wegman
    Jewelry Professional & Founder of Ring Concierge
    Nicole Wegman is the Founder and CEO of Ring Concierge, a New York City-based fine jewelry brand. Specializing in engagement ring and wedding band trends, Ring Concierge creates a luxury experience catered towards millennials. Ring Concierge offers engagement rings along with earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and anklets. Nicole's work and Ring Concierge have been featured in Vogue, Glamour, Who What Wear, Martha Stewart Weddings, Brides, and Cosmopolitan. Nicole is a GIA (Gemological Institute of America) Accredited Jewelry Professional and holds a BS in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University.
    Nicole Wegman
    Jewelry Professional & Founder of Ring Concierge
    Expert Answer
    Mixing and matching your multiple wedding bands and engagement rings is so popular right now. With various bands, you can style your engagement ring in different ways based on your outfit, mood, etc. I would go for a simple 1.5mm Band, a diamond heavy band like an eternity band, and then a non-traditional band!
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      Tips

      • Sometimes couples choose to get matching wedding bands. They can be made out of the same metal, follow a similar design, or even contain matching precious stones. [11]
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      • In the case of a broken engagement, the two people will need to discuss who should keep the rings.
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      Warnings

      • Protect your ring or band by taking it off before doing yard work or other activities that could wear the metals down or loosen the stones.
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      References

      1. ↑ https://www.theknot.com/content/ring-finger-what-hand-wedding-engagement-ring
      2. ↑ https://www.brilliantearth.com/wedding-rings/buying-guide/styling/
      3. ↑ https://www.brilliantearth.com/wedding-rings/buying-guide/styling/
      4. ↑ https://www.theknot.com/content/ring-finger-what-hand-wedding-engagement-ring
      5. ↑ Nicole Wegman. Jewelry Professional & Founder of Ring Concierge. Expert Interview. 23 April 2020.
      6. ↑ https://www.weddingideasmag.com/guide-stacking-wedding-rings/#wbounce-modal
      7. ↑ https://www.theknot.com/content/ring-finger-what-hand-wedding-engagement-ring
      8. ↑ https://www.theknot.com/content/whats-the-wedding-ring-etiquette
      9. ↑ https://www.theknot.com/content/ring-finger-what-hand-wedding-engagement-ring
      1. ↑ https://www.brides.com/story/alternative-ways-wear-your-engagement-ring-wedding-band
      2. ↑ https://www.mervisdiamond.com/blog/2012/12/how-to-wear-your-engagement-wedding-rings/

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      While you’re free to wear your engagement ring and wedding band however you like, the traditional option is to wear them on the ring finger of your left hand. Typically, the engagement ring goes on first, followed by the wedding band. However, if you’d prefer, you can wear your wedding band on the inside and your engagement ring on the outside. You can even wear your wedding ring on one hand and your engagement ring on the other if you don’t to wear them on the same hand. Keep reading to learn more about how to choose your ring, from matching sets to eternity bands!

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