A young man asked me for advice on the engagement ring he wants to give to his girlfriend so she can officially become his fiancée. He was very happy with my suggestions.
So I decided to write this article summarizing the advice I gave him, hoping it will be not only useful but also a good omen for many other young men.
Index
- Engagement Ring and Engagement
- Where is the engagement ring worn?
- Why is the ring worn on the ring finger?
- When is the engagement ring moved to the right hand?
- Giving an Engagement Ring: but which one?
- Engagement Ring: Diamond and Beyond
- Which is more valuable: a brilliant or a diamond?
- So which gemstone should you choose for the engagement ring?
- Engagement: What Should the Fiancée Give Her Future Husband?
- Is It the Wedding Ring?
Engagement Ring and Engagement
The engagement ring has always been the symbol that makes an engagement official. An engagement without a ring does not reflect our traditions and leaves the promise itself without a symbol as precious as it is meaningful.
Giving an engagement ring is not just a symbolic gesture: it is a concrete commitment to fulfilling one’s love.
Where is the engagement ring worn?
Tradition says that the engagement ring is placed by him on the ring finger of her left hand. Only after this gesture does the engagement become truly official.
Why is the ring worn on the ring finger?
It is no coincidence that the finger traditionally chosen for the ring is called the “ring finger.”
According to ancient belief, the “vein of love” (in Latin vena amoris) passes through this finger.
Both the engagement ring and later the wedding band are worn on the ring finger of the left hand because it is considered the “hand of the heart.”
Symbolically, sliding the ring onto the ring finger of the left hand is like letting it flow directly toward her heart.
When is the engagement ring moved to the right hand?
The engagement ring remains on her left hand until the wedding day.
On the morning of the wedding, the bride removes the engagement ring from the left hand and puts it on the ring finger of the right hand.
It is moved to the right so that the left ring finger is free to receive the wedding band, which will remain there from that moment on.
Giving an Engagement Ring: but which one?
Tradition says that the ideal engagement ring for a marriage proposal is a family heirloom. This symbolises the passing down of a cherished possession to future generations.
For those who do not have a family jewel—or prefer not to use one for personal reasons—the best solution is to visit a trusted jeweller.
They will certainly be able to guide you based on the budget you choose.
Engagement Ring: Diamond and Beyond
“A diamond is forever,” says the famous slogan that has become part of everyday language, and indeed a diamond speaks straight to the heart.
However, a diamond can also be given after the wedding, to celebrate milestones in the marriage.
Which is more valuable: a brilliant or a diamond?
A diamond and a brilliant are essentially the same thing.
A diamond is the raw material, while a brilliant is the specific cut—the most famous and universally recognised.
So which gemstone should you choose for the engagement ring?
The choice of an engagement ring traditionally revolves around these precious stones:
- brilliant (diamond)
- emerald
- ruby
- sapphire
Each of these gemstones carries a clear and unique message within itself.
Il brillante è per chi vuole dire che il loro amore è solido come il diamante ed è eterno.
The ruby symbolizes passion and ardor.
The emerald represents hope and trust in the future.
The sapphire expresses faithfulness and depth.
In many cases, rings with rubies, emeralds, or sapphires are complemented by small diamonds.
It is also common to give engagement rings featuring less precious stones such as amethyst, topaz, or aquamarine.
Engagement: What Should the Fiancée Give Her Future Husband?
It is considered good etiquette for the fiancée to reciprocate the gift of the engagement ring.
She may choose a gift that is equally meaningful and lasting—such as a men’s ring, a pair of cufflinks, a gold keychain, or a fine watch.
It is not necessary to give a “promise ring.”
The most important ring of all remains the wedding band, also called the “vera” or “fede”.
Is It the Wedding Ring?
Traditionally, the wedding ring is made of gold, with the name and the wedding date engraved on the inside.
However, you can opt for a ring in gold and platinum, perhaps even with one or more brilliant-cut diamonds set into it.
Your trusted jeweller will be able to show you the latest trends in engagement rings and wedding bands, fitting both your taste and your budget.
This post is also available in: Italiano (Italian)
