It’s your choice: Can an engagement ring be a wedding ring? Of course!

Not everyone follows the same rules of tradition or protocol when it comes to engagements and weddings. Some couples don’t get engaged at all. Some choose to elope. Others opt not to wear rings. You can proceed however you choose.

Can an engagement ring be a wedding ring? Sure. What not?

Tradition

Traditionally, an engagement ring is given when a man (or woman, in some cases) asks another person to marry him (or her.) The ring is worn before the couple says “I do.” It shows the person, generally the woman, is about to be married.

This ring is often quite dazzling and has wow factor. Customarily, this ring is a diamond but many are opting for emeralds, sapphires, rubies and other precious stones. This piece of jewelry is usually more spectacular than the wedding band and, consequently, costs more. These two spheres worn on the same finger announce commitment to another person.

The wedding ring is given during the ceremony. It complements the engagement ring because they are worn together on the third finger of the left hand, although some cultures wear these on their right hand.

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It is traditional to wear the wedding ring closest to the heart. This means the wedding sphere goes on the bottom and the engagement sphere goes on top. Ideally, the rings look good when worn together because that’s how they are worn and seen.

Finding the right rings or rings is based primarily on personal preference. Some women like the proportion of two matching rings, featuring diamonds the same shape and size and bands of the same metal.

On the other hand, the bride-to-be may fancy two pieces not necessarily designed to be worn together. This results in a distinctive look.

One is sufficient

Some women do not want to wear two. They are satisfied with their proposal jewelry and don’t want to take away from its splendor by wearing a wedding band. This is perfectly fine. Take the ring off prior to the ceremony, giving it to the groom, and he can slip it back on your finger at the appropriate time.

Some couples eschew the tradition because they object to the symbolism of man’s ownership of a woman. If that’s your choice, fine. Obviously, not purchasing a second ring is a cost saving and, yes, many couples are concerned about finances as they should be. If purchasing two is going to put you in horrible debt don’t do it.

You can get engaged without exchanging jewelry. A ring is the visible sign of a commitment and promise between two people. However, an outward symbol is not necessary, although it it nice.

If you and your loved one decide you are getting married and announce it publicly a ring is not mandated. When people ask where it is inform them there is none and that’s precisely how you wanted it. You won’t be the first or last couple embarking on marriage sans engagement or wedding bling.

Rings are a token and a lovely one but not the tie that binds. Granted, a beautiful band is something a woman (or man) treasures. It has sentiment attached to it and can be passed to future generations and worn when they become engaged or married.

However, do not make the mistake of equating the size of a diamond with the size of your intended’s love for you. It may or it may not reflect that. A small token, even a cigar band, can signify as much love if not more than the million-dollar spectacle the girl next door boasts on her third finger.