What is an eternity ring?
An eternity ring, also known as infinity ring, traditionally features an endless row of same size diamonds set in a precious metal, like gold or platinum. The meaning of eternity rings is never ending love and is usually given to celebrate a milestone in the life of a couple like an anniversary or the birth of the first child.
The history of eternity rings
Viewed as a symbol of unending love, the eternity ring has stood the test of time as one of the most historic ring designs. The meaning of “eternity” comes from the idea of the circular band representing infinity. It’s a deeply romantic thought but, when did eternity rings originate? It is thought that the first eternity ring was created 4000 years ago by the Egyptians, where instead of commemorating a special occasion these rings were given as a token of love between couples.
Early examples of eternity rings were metal bands set with a stone or rings portraying a snake swallowing its own tail, a symbol used to represent eternity.
When do you give an eternity ring?
Eternity rings are commonly gifted for the birth of a new baby or a wedding anniversary, as they symbolise everlasting love and an eternal bond shared between two people. Sometimes they are given to mark a special milestone such as a birthday or celebration.
There is one thing that eternity rings are always known for: pure luxury. With diamonds encrusted all around the metal band, eternity rings have a remarkable sparkle that shines around the band when viewed from most angles. The diamonds come in different sizes and styles. They’re very noticeable from a distance and are perfect to combine with other rings.
Eternity ring designs
Full eternity rings
Full eternity rings are one of the most luxurious options since these rings are set with stones, typically diamonds, around the entire band of the ring. Full eternity rings have an exceptional show of light and can be worn alone on the right hand or in between the wedding ring and engagement ring. Head to our other article to learn which order to wear your wedding, engagement and eternity rings. One thing to consider about full eternity rings is that they can’t be resized so it is good to know your partner’s size (or yours!) correctly.
Half eternity rings
They might have fewer stones but that doesn’t mean they are less stunning. Half eternity rings are set with stones halfway around the band featuring either same size stones or stones in a variety of sizes and shapes. This style of eternity rings can be less expensive but at the end, it will depend on the quality of the stones. Half eternity rings can be resized as long as it is not engraved.
Diamond Eternity Rings
Without a doubt, diamond eternity rings are a symbol of luxury and love and are the most popular option when it comes to eternity rings. Diamonds are one of the most precious and unique stones, so who wouldn’t want to have a ring that is almost made entirely by diamonds?
Diamond eternity ring cuts
Usually, only 3 shapes are used to make diamond eternity rings although a combination of the three is an option.
Round cut eternity rings
This shape is magical since it works perfectly with almost every type of setting. Round diamonds have a beautiful sparkle thanks to its shape being symmetrical 360-degree. A classic and beautiful choice without a doubt like this stunning 4-prong eternity ring.
Princess cut eternity rings
This shape has square and clean lines which make it perfect for an eternity ring since each diamond will fit seamlessly next to the other. Princess diamonds are classic but yet modern and are the ideal choice for those who love the sparkle of a round diamond with a contemporary twist.
Baguette cut eternity rings
This shape is commonly used in eternity rings, mixed with other shapes or alone. This versatile diamond shape can be featured vertical or horizontally for a more dramatic look.
Gemstone Eternity Rings
A more colourful take on the eternity rings. There are many styles from having only one type of gemstone to mixing them altogether or even including diamonds in the mix. The most popular gemstones to use in eternity rings are rubies, sapphires and emeralds since these gemstones are the most precious and harder after diamonds. But you could also choose others, maybe your partner’s birthstone. At Diamonds Factory we offer a free bespoke service where you can design the eternity ring of your dreams. Click here to know more.
Eternity Rings Setting Types and Shapes
Prong
This type of setting wraps the diamond and overlaps it slightly at the top to hold it in place. Prong settings are more suitable for round diamonds and allow the maximum amount of light to enter the diamond, creating an extraordinary show of lights.
Bezel
This type of setting encircles the diamond with a thin metal rim that holds the stone in place. Bezel settings are perfect for those who have a more active lifestyle contrary to prong settings that are prone to snag on clothing or furniture, with the risk of the setting getting loose and ending up losing the diamond.
This setting gives an edgy and modern look to a classic eternity ring.
Channel
A beautiful setting that sets each stone next to the other, with no metal in between, creating a channel. Channel settings are perfect for those with a very active lifestyle since the diamonds are protected. This setting is perfect for princess, round and baguette shaped diamonds. You can browse our amazing Channel collection here.Channel Setting Full Eternity Diamond Ring
Bar
Similar to a Channel setting, bar settings feature a long thinned bar shared between two is stones that holds each stone perfectly. This type of setting allows a lot of light in, so sparkles are ensured.Bar Setting Full Eternity Diamond Ring
Which metal should you choose for an eternity ring?
Taking into account the metal that creates the structure of the band, the full eternity ring is the closest you can get to a ring entirely made of diamonds. The half eternity rings still carry the same kind of luxurious effect in their designs, but the bottom is pure metal for practical reasons.
Platinum eternity rings
Platinum is one of the most precious and rare metals on earth so platinum eternity rings are a more durable and luxurious option.
White gold eternity rings
A more affordable version but still one that has been on trend since the 1920’s is white gold. This metal is similar in colour to platinum, white gold is yellow gold alloyed with silver or palladium. White gold is a classic option and a ring like this pave setting half eternity ring will have an elegant look.
Yellow gold eternity rings
The most traditional of the metals, yellow gold has a regal feel. This metal colour adds warmth and durability to any piece of jewellery. See our collection of yellow gold eternity rings.
Rose gold eternity rings
Rose gold is a trendy metal type that has become popular for diamond rings in recent years. It is made up of a blend of yellow gold, copper and silver, and tends to be slightly stronger than other coloured metals as there is less pure gold. Rose gold jewellery gets its coveted blush hue from the small amount of copper within the metal and the tone really depends on the amount that is present. This colour is popular in tech, homeware and, of course jewellery. Discover our collection of rose gold eternity rings.
Silver eternity rings
Silver eternity rings are a more affordable option, for those on a budget when compared to eternity rings made of gold or platinum. Silver is not as durable as platinum or white gold but does have a beautiful soft white, lustrous appearance. It is cheaper because it is readily available, unlike gold which is quite rare.
Bespoke eternity rings
A bespoke eternity ring is a great choice if you have a particular design in-mind. You can tailor everything to suit your taste, such as the width and style of the band, the metal colour and the setting type. Read more about our free bespoke rings service to find out how to make your dream design a reality.
How to wear an eternity ring?
Eternity rings can be worn on top of your wedding and engagement ring – wedding ring fist, then engagement ring- or right in the middle.
If three rings worn together are too much for you, you can always wear your eternity ring on your right hand.
When it comes to picking the perfect ring, one has to keep in mind the style of their loved one and in this case, eternity rings attract those who are hopeless romantics and love the feeling of pure luxury. Visit our website and browse our beautiful diamond eternity ring collection or create your own with our free bespoke service
What is an eternity ring?
An eternity ring, also known as infinity ring, traditionally features an endless row of same size diamonds set in a precious metal, like gold or platinum. The meaning of eternity rings is never ending love and is usually given to celebrate a milestone in the life of a couple like an anniversary or the birth of the first child.
The history of eternity rings
Viewed as a symbol of unending love, the eternity ring has stood the test of time as one of the most historic ring designs. The meaning of “eternity” comes from the idea of the circular band representing infinity. It’s a deeply romantic thought but, when did eternity rings originate? It is thought that the first eternity ring was created 4000 years ago by the Egyptians, where instead of commemorating a special occasion these rings were given as a token of love between couples.
Early examples of eternity rings were metal bands set with a stone or rings portraying a snake swallowing its own tail, a symbol used to represent eternity.
When do you give an eternity ring?
Eternity rings are commonly gifted for the birth of a new baby or a wedding anniversary, as they symbolise everlasting love and an eternal bond shared between two people. Sometimes they are given to mark a special milestone such as a birthday or celebration.
There is one thing that eternity rings are always known for: pure luxury. With diamonds encrusted all around the metal band, eternity rings have a remarkable sparkle that shines around the band when viewed from most angles. The diamonds come in different sizes and styles. They’re very noticeable from a distance and are perfect to combine with other rings.
Eternity ring designs
Full eternity rings
Full eternity rings are one of the most luxurious options since these rings are set with stones, typically diamonds, around the entire band of the ring. Full eternity rings have an exceptional show of light and can be worn alone on the right hand or in between the wedding ring and engagement ring. Head to our other article to learn which order to wear your wedding, engagement and eternity rings. One thing to consider about full eternity rings is that they can’t be resized so it is good to know your partner’s size (or yours!) correctly.
Half eternity rings
They might have fewer stones but that doesn’t mean they are less stunning. Half eternity rings are set with stones halfway around the band featuring either same size stones or stones in a variety of sizes and shapes. This style of eternity rings can be less expensive but at the end, it will depend on the quality of the stones. Half eternity rings can be resized as long as it is not engraved.
Diamond Eternity Rings
Without a doubt, diamond eternity rings are a symbol of luxury and love and are the most popular option when it comes to eternity rings. Diamonds are one of the most precious and unique stones, so who wouldn’t want to have a ring that is almost made entirely by diamonds?
Diamond eternity ring cuts
Usually, only 3 shapes are used to make diamond eternity rings although a combination of the three is an option.
Round cut eternity rings
This shape is magical since it works perfectly with almost every type of setting. Round diamonds have a beautiful sparkle thanks to its shape being symmetrical 360-degree. A classic and beautiful choice without a doubt like this stunning 4-prong eternity ring.
Princess cut eternity rings
This shape has square and clean lines which make it perfect for an eternity ring since each diamond will fit seamlessly next to the other. Princess diamonds are classic but yet modern and are the ideal choice for those who love the sparkle of a round diamond with a contemporary twist.
Baguette cut eternity rings
This shape is commonly used in eternity rings, mixed with other shapes or alone. This versatile diamond shape can be featured vertical or horizontally for a more dramatic look.
Gemstone Eternity Rings
A more colourful take on the eternity rings. There are many styles from having only one type of gemstone to mixing them altogether or even including diamonds in the mix. The most popular gemstones to use in eternity rings are rubies, sapphires and emeralds since these gemstones are the most precious and harder after diamonds. But you could also choose others, maybe your partner’s birthstone. At Diamonds Factory we offer a free bespoke service where you can design the eternity ring of your dreams. Click here to know more.
Eternity Rings Setting Types and Shapes
Prong
This type of setting wraps the diamond and overlaps it slightly at the top to hold it in place. Prong settings are more suitable for round diamonds and allow the maximum amount of light to enter the diamond, creating an extraordinary show of lights.
Bezel
This type of setting encircles the diamond with a thin metal rim that holds the stone in place. Bezel settings are perfect for those who have a more active lifestyle contrary to prong settings that are prone to snag on clothing or furniture, with the risk of the setting getting loose and ending up losing the diamond.
This setting gives an edgy and modern look to a classic eternity ring.
Channel
A beautiful setting that sets each stone next to the other, with no metal in between, creating a channel. Channel settings are perfect for those with a very active lifestyle since the diamonds are protected. This setting is perfect for princess, round and baguette shaped diamonds. You can browse our amazing Channel collection here.Channel Setting Full Eternity Diamond Ring
Bar
Similar to a Channel setting, bar settings feature a long thinned bar shared between two is stones that holds each stone perfectly. This type of setting allows a lot of light in, so sparkles are ensured.Bar Setting Full Eternity Diamond Ring
Which metal should you choose for an eternity ring?
Taking into account the metal that creates the structure of the band, the full eternity ring is the closest you can get to a ring entirely made of diamonds. The half eternity rings still carry the same kind of luxurious effect in their designs, but the bottom is pure metal for practical reasons.
Platinum eternity rings
Platinum is one of the most precious and rare metals on earth so platinum eternity rings are a more durable and luxurious option.
White gold eternity rings
A more affordable version but still one that has been on trend since the 1920’s is white gold. This metal is similar in colour to platinum, white gold is yellow gold alloyed with silver or palladium. White gold is a classic option and a ring like this pave setting half eternity ring will have an elegant look.
Yellow gold eternity rings
The most traditional of the metals, yellow gold has a regal feel. This metal colour adds warmth and durability to any piece of jewellery. See our collection of yellow gold eternity rings.
Rose gold eternity rings
Rose gold is a trendy metal type that has become popular for diamond rings in recent years. It is made up of a blend of yellow gold, copper and silver, and tends to be slightly stronger than other coloured metals as there is less pure gold. Rose gold jewellery gets its coveted blush hue from the small amount of copper within the metal and the tone really depends on the amount that is present. This colour is popular in tech, homeware and, of course jewellery. Discover our collection of rose gold eternity rings.
Silver eternity rings
Silver eternity rings are a more affordable option, for those on a budget when compared to eternity rings made of gold or platinum. Silver is not as durable as platinum or white gold but does have a beautiful soft white, lustrous appearance. It is cheaper because it is readily available, unlike gold which is quite rare.
Bespoke eternity rings
A bespoke eternity ring is a great choice if you have a particular design in-mind. You can tailor everything to suit your taste, such as the width and style of the band, the metal colour and the setting type. Read more about our free bespoke rings service to find out how to make your dream design a reality.
How to wear an eternity ring?
Eternity rings can be worn on top of your wedding and engagement ring – wedding ring fist, then engagement ring- or right in the middle.
If three rings worn together are too much for you, you can always wear your eternity ring on your right hand.
When it comes to picking the perfect ring, one has to keep in mind the style of their loved one and in this case, eternity rings attract those who are hopeless romantics and love the feeling of pure luxury. Visit our website and browse our beautiful diamond eternity ring collection or create your own with our free bespoke service