Eternity Rings… Eternal Love

The tradition of the eternity ring dates back as far as 2000 BC to the ancient Egyptians. Its history is closely related to that of the wedding ring — a circle of metal with no beginning and no end — the perfect symbol of everlasting love.

An eternity ring is usually given at a significant anniversary. Many men present their wife with an eternity ring to celebrate the first year of their marriage or the birth of a first child.

The eternity ring is often worn on the same finger as the engagement and wedding ring — the third finger of the left hand. Ancient Egyptians believed that this finger contained the "vena amoris" — the vein of love, that runs directly to the heart. Whether you wear your eternity ring before your engagement ring, between your engagement and wedding ring or, indeed on your right hand, is a matter of personal choice and will depend on the style of ring.

The classic eternity ring is a full-eternity ring — a full circle of stones, most commonly diamonds, set on a precious metal such as gold or platinum. Half-eternity rings feature a half band of stones — a popular option as these rings can be easily re-sized, while retaining the beauty of a full-eternity ring.

Early eternity rings had diamonds embedded into the band, or shank. Today, diamonds are often in a claw setting — the diamonds are raised above the band and held by prongs — for a radiant look. Channel settings, where the diamonds are encased by metal only on the edges of the band, create a contemporary eternity ring with a brilliant shine.

While diamonds are the traditional stones used in eternity rings, many couples opt for rings set with a coloured gemstone, such as ruby or sapphire or ones that combine the beauty of diamonds with the richness of a coloured stone. A ring set with your loved one's birthstone is truly personal and romantic gift.

The diamond three stone ring also known as the diamond trilogy ring, is a popular alternative to the traditional eternity ring. With a diamond to represent your past, a diamond to represent your present and a diamond to represent your future, a three stone ring encapsulates the romance of your relationship perfectly.

And let's not forget our men. Express your love for him with a traditional gold or silver ring. For the contemporary man, opt for a ring made from durable, fashionable titanium or tungsten. Men's rings are more popular than ever so you're sure to find one that suits his style.

Whatever eternity ring you buy, choose it with love and with care — it's the ultimate expression of your enduring love and an heirloom that will be treasured for years to come.