The 5 Rings of Marriage: What you Must Know Before Getting Married

The 5 Rings of Marriage

Marriage is one of life’s most meaningful journeys, and each stage brings with it a powerful symbol: a ring. But it’s not just about the well-known engagement and wedding rings—there are actually five key rings that represent the evolving stages of a committed relationship. Whether you're at the start of your romantic journey or decades into a lasting bond, understanding the symbolism of the five rings of marriage can deepen your appreciation for each moment.

Let’s explore these five rings in detail, what they mean, whether you should buy them, and where to find the perfect pieces to match your love story.

What Are the 5 Rings of Marriage?

The idea of the "five rings of marriage" extends beyond traditional jewellery. It captures five milestones or experiences that couples often journey through, each symbolised by a ring. They include:

1. The Engagement Ring

The engagement ring is perhaps the most iconic of all. It represents the promise of a shared future and marks the beginning of a couple’s journey toward marriage. Typically adorned with a diamond, it is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand—believed by many to contain a vein that leads directly to the heart.

In terms of symbolism, the engagement ring is a pledge, a hopeful yes, and a testament to the commitment to grow together.

2. The Wedding Ring

The wedding ring is exchanged during the marriage ceremony and worn as a daily reminder of love and unity. Traditionally simpler in design than the engagement ring, it is a circle with no end, signifying eternal love and loyalty. In many cultures, both partners wear wedding rings, showing equality in commitment.

It’s not just a ring—it’s a wearable vow.

3. The Eternity Ring

Given after a major milestone such as a significant anniversary or the birth of a child, the eternity ring is encrusted with stones all around the band. It symbolises the continuation of love and the deepening of a relationship over time.

Wearing an eternity ring acknowledges not just years shared but the growth, challenges, and triumphs endured together.

4. The Promise Ring

Often overlooked in traditional lists, the promise ring symbolises intention. It can precede an engagement or simply reflect a mutual commitment between partners. It’s common among younger couples who may not be ready for engagement but still want to mark their serious relationship.

This ring embodies loyalty and future possibilities—without the immediate step toward marriage.

5. The Anniversary Ring

Distinct from the eternity ring, the anniversary ring is usually gifted on milestone anniversaries—often the 10th, 25th, or 50th. These rings vary in design and can be customised to reflect the couple’s unique story. While similar in function to an eternity ring, anniversary rings often commemorate a specific achievement in the marriage.

It is a celebration in metal and gemstone—a timeless thank you for years of love.

Should You Buy These Rings?

Whether to buy all five rings depends on your values, relationship goals, and financial priorities. For many, the engagement and wedding rings are non-negotiable traditions. The promise ring is more situational and may not apply to all couples. Eternity and anniversary rings, on the other hand, are wonderful ways to honour and commemorate growth in a relationship.

Rather than viewing them as materialistic expectations, consider these rings as storytelling pieces—each one marking a different chapter of your life together. If your partner values sentimentality and symbolism, these rings can be deeply meaningful.

Where to Buy These Rings

When choosing where to buy these rings, you have several options depending on your budget and style preferences:

• High-end jewellers such as Boodles, Tiffany & Co., and Cartier offer beautifully crafted engagement, wedding and anniversary rings.

• Independent artisan jewellers are ideal for unique or custom-made pieces. Etsy or local designers often provide handcrafted rings with personal touches.

• High-street retailers like H. Samuel, Beaverbrooks, or Goldsmiths offer a wide range at more accessible prices.

• Online-only retailers such as Blue Nile or Brilliant Earth provide competitive pricing and virtual try-on services.

Always look for certified gemstones and reputable return policies, especially for major purchases like engagement rings.

Conclusion

The five rings of marriage go beyond decoration—they tell the story of your relationship, step by step. From the first promise to decades of shared experience, each ring captures a different layer of love, commitment and growth. Whether you embrace all five or stick with the traditional engagement and wedding bands, each ring becomes a part of your shared legacy.

Investing in these symbolic pieces isn’t just about jewellery—it’s about honouring the emotional milestones that make a marriage truly valuable.

FAQs

Do all couples need five rings?
Not at all. The five-ring concept is symbolic, and many couples choose only engagement and wedding rings. The rest are optional depending on personal preference.

Can the eternity ring double as an anniversary ring?
Yes. Some couples choose one ring to represent multiple milestones, especially if it’s customised.

When should I give a promise ring?
A promise ring is usually given at the start of a serious relationship, when you want to show commitment without proposing marriage.

What’s the difference between an anniversary ring and an eternity ring?
An eternity ring is typically a continuous band of stones, given to symbolise never-ending love. An anniversary ring may have a more varied design and is tied to a specific milestone.

Where should I wear each ring?
Traditionally, the engagement and wedding rings are worn on the left ring finger. Eternity and anniversary rings can be stacked on the same finger or worn on the right hand for balance and comfort.