An eternity ring is a ring band set with a continuous, unbroken circle of gemstones of the same size, usually diamonds, running all the way around the band. The unbroken circle symbolises eternity and unending love, which is why eternity rings are traditionally given for major anniversaries and the birth of a child, and worn alongside engagement and wedding rings.
Full and Half Eternity
In a full eternity ring the stones circle the entire band, with no plain section at the back. The effect is complete - the ring sparkles from every angle and can turn freely on the finger - but the design cannot easily be resized, because there is no plain metal to cut. Buyers must be sure of the size, ideally after trying a similar band.
A half eternity ring sets stones across the front half (or a portion) of the band, leaving plain metal at the back. It costs less for the same front effect, is more comfortable against neighbouring fingers, can usually be resized, and is kinder for everyday wear because the vulnerable stones are not underneath the finger where knocks are hardest.
- Full eternity - stones all the way around; cannot easily be resized.
- Half eternity - stones across the front only; resizable and practical.
- Three-quarter eternity - stones around most of the band with a small plain section.
Wearing an Eternity Ring
An eternity ring is usually worn on the same finger as the engagement and wedding rings, in an order that protects the most valuable or most delicate ring in the middle. Stone settings - claw, channel or bezel - decide how it copes with daily wear: channel and bezel settings shield the stones, claw settings show them at their brightest but need periodic checks.
Choosing Settings and Stones
The setting decides how an eternity ring lives day to day. Channel settings protect the stones' edges and give a smooth, modern band that slides easily against neighbouring rings. Bezel settings wrap each stone in metal for the most protection of all. Claw settings lift the stones and show the most sparkle, but the claws need checking because a single lifted claw on a full eternity band puts a stone at risk. Consider also how the ring will sit beside an engagement ring: matching the stone size, setting style and band height keeps the two rings looking like a set rather than neighbours.
FAQs
- Can an eternity ring be resized?
- A full eternity ring generally cannot be resized, because stones run all the way around. A half eternity ring usually can, thanks to its plain back section.
- When is an eternity ring given?
- Traditionally for a significant anniversary or the birth of a child. It is also chosen as a wedding band in its own right.
- Which finger does an eternity ring go on?
- Usually the ring finger, worn with the wedding band and engagement ring. The exact order is personal preference.