What is the difference between a wedding ring and an engagement ring?

An engagement ring is given when a couple decides to marry and is usually set with a stone, while a wedding ring is exchanged at the ceremony itself and is typically a plain or lightly decorated band. After the wedding, both are often worn together on the same finger.

What metal should I choose for a wedding ring?

Gold in 9ct, 14ct or 18ct is the most popular choice in Australia for its warmth and durability. Platinum is excellent for very fair skin tones and is harder than gold, while tungsten and titanium appeal to those wanting a scratchproof, contemporary look.

Which finger does a wedding ring go on?

In Australia and most Western countries, the wedding ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand, traditionally because of a belief in the vena amoris, or vein of love, connecting that finger to the heart. Right-hand customs are observed in some European and South American cultures.

What is a wedding ring?

By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026

Definition

A wedding ring is a band exchanged between partners during a marriage ceremony as a symbol of commitment and enduring love. It is typically a plain or simply decorated metal band in gold, platinum or silver, worn on the ring finger of the left hand in most Western countries, though customs vary. Wedding rings tend to be understated so they can be worn every day for a lifetime, and once the wedding has taken place they usually sit alongside the engagement ring.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a wedding ring and an engagement ring?: An engagement ring is given when a couple decides to marry and is usually set with a stone, while a wedding ring is exchanged at the ceremony itself and is typically a plain or lightly decorated band. After the wedding, both are often worn together on the same finger.
What metal should I choose for a wedding ring?: Gold in 9ct, 14ct or 18ct is the most popular choice in Australia for its warmth and durability. Platinum is excellent for very fair skin tones and is harder than gold, while tungsten and titanium appeal to those wanting a scratchproof, contemporary look.
Which finger does a wedding ring go on?: In Australia and most Western countries, the wedding ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand, traditionally because of a belief in the vena amoris, or vein of love, connecting that finger to the heart. Right-hand customs are observed in some European and South American cultures.

Designing a ring

Talk through wedding ring with us

Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.

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