Wedding and Engagement Ring Traditions

Exchanging Rings Symbolizes Love and Devotion

To indicate a marital commitment - rings are usually worn on the left hand ring finger. Diamonds have always been the first choice to be set into wedding rings and engagement rings.


Here in the west, we have certain customs regarding the exchange of wedding rings that seem perfectly normal to us: a double ring exchange where the groom puts the ring on his bride’s hand followed by the bride doing the same for the groom. Types of rings used are typically gold, with the woman’s ring often encrusted in diamonds.

Changing Customs and Lasting Traditions
Customs are changing but one thing remains the same: couples are sealing their marriage vows with an exchange of rings no matter where they live in the world.

The Ring Given – Platinum is prized but often too expensive for some. Diamonds and other gemstones are often included particularly for the woman’s ring. Some men are coming around and accepting diamond wedding rings, but in most cases men prefer a wedding ring that is understated and won’t get in the way of their work.

The way that they are presented – Ring bearers are sometimes included in wedding ceremonies to present the wedding bands to the bride and the groom. In other cases, the best man will hold the rings and present them at the appropriate time during the wedding ceremony.

The meaning of the rings – In all cases, the exchange of wedding rings symbolizes the couple’s fidelity to each other. For the devout, wedding bands represent that, plus their relationship to God, whom they see as the central foundation of their relationship.




















Some women prefer to wear their wedding rings on the bottom of their finger with the engagement ring first while for others just the opposite holds true. The “closer to the heart” meaning is important to some, while the convenience of easily removing the engagement ring while at work or doing chores is important to others.

How Many Rings
In time’s past, only one ring would be given and that ring would be from the man to the woman when they got married. A different economic climate required limited options but those restrictions are no longer in place.

Today, couples from around the world are enjoying financial freedom that allows the man to give an engagement ring, the couple to exchange rings at their wedding ceremony, and the giving of a diamond eternity ring or anniversary rings later on in their marriage.

Whichever way you choose to demonstrate your love, purchase a quality engagement ring, wedding rings, or an anniversary ring meant to stand the test of time.