What Is an Eternity Ring?
In the last half century, eternity rings have become one of the most popular jewelry purchases to celebrate a momentous occasion. But what exactly is an eternity ring? In short, an eternity ring is designed with stones embedded into the full circumference of the band. This infinite pattern symbolizes that the love and commitment of a relationship will last for an eternity.
Origins of the Eternity Ring
The eternity ring’s origins date back to ancient Egypt. The Egyptians believed that circles were important symbols of eternity and thus wore rings with designs around the entire band. Interestingly, this is also how we derived our tradition of women wearing engagement rings on the fourth finger of their left hand. The Egyptians believed that a vein ran straight from this finger to our hearts. While science has since proven this to be untrue, the tradition has nevertheless remained.
So, Which Hand Does the Wedding Ring Go On Anyway?
It wasn’t until the 1960s, however, that eternity rings became culturally significant in modern times. An investigative journalist named Edward Jay Epstein discovered that a famous jeweler had struck a deal with the former Soviet Union to purchase at least 90 percent of its diamond reserves in return for the establishment of a “single channel” controlling the global diamond supply. The Soviet diamonds, though, were much smaller than those typically used in engagement rings. So the jeweler instead designed a product that utilized a large number of small diamonds instead of a small number of large diamonds. This is how the modern eternity ring was born.
What Are Eternity Rings for?
While eternity rings were first designed for married or older couples celebrating anniversaries, these rings have also become popular gift ideas to mark almost any momentous occasion. Among the most famous eternity ring purchases was professional baseball player Joe DiMaggio’s engagement ring to actress and style icon Marilyn Monroe. Today, eternity rings are a popular alternative to the traditional engagement ring and are also worn as a wedding band.
While eternity rings are most often worn by women, they are also worn by men, and have become popular gift selections to celebrate the birth of a child, Valentine’s Day or a birthday. In other words, if you love someone and want to express their importance to you, an eternity ring will always be a wonderful idea.
Are There Different Types of Eternity Rings?
Yes. A traditional “full eternity ring” features a complement of stones around its entire band. “Half eternity rings,” however, have also become very popular. These rings, as their name suggests, feature stones across only the visible top half of the band, giving them the look of a full eternity ring at a lower price point. Ring wearers also tend to find half eternity rings more comfortable than full versions because stones are never pressed against the inside of their hand. Half eternity rings are also much easier to resize than full eternity rings.
Those, however, who prefer a full eternity ring appreciate that when it moves on the finger, no bare part of the band is exposed. And for many who care deeply about the symbolism of eternity rings, a full version is still the optimal choice.
Finally, an eternity ring — both full and half — is similar to other rings in offering different stone settings and design styles to match the unique personality of the person whose hand it will adorn.
Does Modern Gents Have Eternity Rings?
Absolutely! Modern Gents specializes in offering stunning yet affordable wedding rings and stacked wedding rings made from conflict-free materials that are perfect options for eternity rings.
This includes “The Eternity,” our signature full eternity ring featuring a stunning array of stones set around a 925 sterling silver or rose gold band, perfect for proposing to, or celebrating with, the person you love most.
For a modern look, consider “The Zoey,” featuring a half eternity chevron band that combines classic beauty with contemporary design.
And for the girl with an old soul, “The Giselle” features a vintage-inspired full eternity band that harks back to the Roaring Twenties.
Find The Perfect Eternity Ring at Modern Gents
The eternity ring may have first been promoted by jewelers as a showcase for conflict diamonds at extravagant prices. But its enduring legacy has always been its place as a symbol of infinite devotion on the part of those who give the ring and eternal love for those who receive it.
Expressing that commitment shouldn’t come at a cost. And with Modern Gents’ eternity rings, it doesn’t have to.