Purchasing and gifting an eternity ring is an incredibly exciting experience, but getting the right one for your partner can be difficult as there are several factors to consider. There’s the design, style and colour and whether it symbolises your love for each other.
So, we’re providing you with everything you need to know about eternity rings to give you an insight into their history and spotlighting some of our standout pieces to inspire you for your chosen ring.
What Is an Eternity Ring?
An eternity ring is a type of ring that is typically given as a gift to mark a significant occasion, such as a wedding anniversary or the birth of a child. However, many give their partner one as a reminder of the commitment made during their wedding ceremony. The ring is typically made of precious metals, such as gold or platinum, and features a continuous band of gemstones, such as diamonds or other precious stones, that circle the entire ring’s circumference.
The eternity ring symbolises the eternal nature of love and commitment, with the continuous band of gemstones representing an unbroken circle of love and devotion. Eternity rings are typically worn on the ring finger of the left hand, alongside a wedding band and engagement ring, although they can also be worn on other fingers or as standalone jewellery pieces depending on the reasoning of the gift.
A Brief History of Eternity Rings
The concept of eternity rings has been around for centuries, with evidence of similar rings dating back to ancient Egypt and Rome. In these cultures, the rings were often made from woven reeds or other natural materials and were given as symbols of eternal love and fidelity.
The modern concept of the eternity ring as a jewellery piece made of precious metals and gemstones emerged in the 1960s. At the time, the De Beers diamond company launched a marketing campaign promoting the idea of an eternity ring as a gift to mark a milestone anniversary. The campaign was a success, and the popularity of eternity rings grew throughout the 20th century. Today, eternity rings are a common choice for gifts to mark a significant occasion. They come in various styles and designs, from classic diamond bands to more unique designs featuring coloured gemstones or intricate detailing.
While the fundamental concept of the eternity ring remains the same, a symbol of eternal love and commitment, the meaning behind the ring may vary from person to person, depending on the occasion and the individual relationship.
When Would You Give an Eternity Ring?
An eternity ring is a special type of ring typically given to a partner to celebrate a milestone anniversary or other significant occasion in the relationship. It symbolises everlasting love and commitment, so when it comes to buying eternity rings, most people give them for one of several reasons, such as:
- Milestone anniversaries. Eternity rings are often given on milestone anniversaries such as the 10th, 25th, or 50th wedding anniversary. It is a way to celebrate a relationship’s longevity and reaffirm one’s love and commitment to their partner.
- Birth of a child. An eternity ring can also be given to mark the birth of a child. It represents the never-ending love and bond between a parent and child.
- Renewal of vows. Couples who renew their vows sometimes exchange eternity rings to symbolise their continued commitment to each other.
Ultimately, an eternity ring symbolises everlasting love and commitment, which can be given on any occasion that holds special significance for a couple.
What Makes a Special Eternity Ring?
Eternity rings are often special and meaningful because of the reason that they’re given, not because of what they look like. However, choosing one for your recipient that looks incredible just adds to the specialness of the piece. The ring should be a reflection of their personality and style and should also hold sentimental value.
For example, the quality of the stones used in an eternity ring is one of the most important factors. Diamond eternity rings should be high-quality to give your recipient the most impressive sparkle and dazzle.
In addition, adding a personal touch to the eternity ring can also make it special. This can be done by engraving the recipient’s name or initials, the date of the occasion, or a meaningful message. Here at Banks Lyon, we also offer bespoke ring design so you can create a truly unique ring for your loved one.
Products in the Spotlight
We have a wide range of stunning eternity rings available online at Banks Lyon and in our Lancaster and Kendal showrooms. For example, this 18ct White Gold 1.07cts Brilliant Cut Diamond Eternity Ring pictured to the right. Guaranteed to put a smile on your recipient’s face, this ring is perfect for symbolising eternal love. The piece conforms to the historic design of the eternity ring through its impressive row of seven brilliant cut diamonds, making it not only beautiful but symbolic too. So if this is the ring for your partner, pick it up today for £5,925 or just £49.37 per month on 0% finance.
Alternatively, the ring to the left is the 18ct Yellow Gold 0.28ct Diamond Eternity Ring, offering a warmer and more simplistic ring to the other spotlighted ring. For £1,725 or just £14.37 per month on 0 % finance, you can get your hands on this stunning piece from Banks Lyon. And with a lifetime of free cleaning and polishing, you can be sure that your ring will always look like it did the day it was gifted.
If neither of these pieces are the one for you, then do not worry. We have an impressive collection of others available on our website and in our showrooms. Contact us today to enquire or visit us to speak with our eternity ring experts in person.