Questions such as what an anniversary ring is and when to get one actually have no straightforward answers. There definitely are some traditions regarding anniversary rings but there are also new and modern interpretations. Let’s explore the tradition of anniversary rings, custom anniversary rings and other unique anniversary gift that you may want to consider.
Traditional Anniversary Rings
Eternity Rings
An anniversary ring is most often gifted on a significant milestone year such as 10, 20, 25 and so on. In the past, the idea of an eternity ring was very heavily marketed as “the” anniversary ring. Often this was because the traditional wedding band was solid gold with no gemstones and the, so called, diamond band was to be purchased later for an anniversary.
An eternity ring typically has diamonds set all of the way around the ring to symbolize eternity or a never ending circle. The only problem is that eternity rings are not able to be sized. This led to the half eternity ring becoming popularized. The half eternity ring has diamonds set only half to three-quarters of the way around the ring so that it can still be re-sized if it becomes necessary in the future.
Matching Anniversary Rings
Sometimes, it has also been traditional to make a duplicate of the wedding band as an anniversary ring. The idea is to wear matching bands on each side to act as a frame for the engagement ring. We’ve found that there are still a number of people who prefer this look but, over all, it’s not as popular as it was in the past.
Custom Anniversary Rings
How do you know when you should create a custom anniversary ring rather than purchase a traditional anniversary ring? There may be a number of reasons and we’ll take a look at a few here.
Unique Anniversary Rings
For people looking for custom anniversary rings the usual reason is because they can’t find what they want in the marketplace. They are looking for something unique and different. There are no rules about what you should get for an anniversary ring anymore.
For example, the stacked ring look is very trendy these days. Often these stacked bands will have an entirely different design, gemstone or metal colour than the original wedding band. Stacking ring sets let people express their personal style and can provide more versatility in how the set is worn.
More often recently, we are also seeing people who are looking for a more impactful or statement-like anniversary ring. Perhaps incorporating a gemstone or diamond that the person has been admiring for a long time.
Meaningful Anniversary Rings
This is the number one reason that most people seek us out for custom anniversary rings. They want to create something really special and symbolic to mark a milestone anniversary.
We’ve had clients ask us to insert a motif that represents a symbolic connection or shared memory between the couple. Another idea is to use a specific number or specific kinds of gemstones that have a meaningful message.
If you want to custom create a meaningful anniversary ring, it really is the thought that counts.
Custom Anniversary Rings that Re-use Heirloom Jewellery
If you’d like to further invest meaning in an anniversary ring, you may choose to re-use heirloom jewellery. We’ve had people bring in the rings of their partner that are no longer worn or fit in order to create something new. Or, sometimes, it is jewellery that has been passed down and has special meaning that we reuse to create the new anniversary ring.
By reusing heirloom jewellery we are able to give it new life and add an extra layer of meaning to the new ring.
Custom Anniversary Gifts
Up to this point we have focused on anniversary rings but, it’s also important to point out that an anniversary gift can be anything! We’ve created many beautiful anniversary pendants, earrings and bracelets.
Sometimes we will use a gemstone that has been provided by the client that they picked up on a trip with their partner. Sometimes our clients will provide us with a very specific idea that they have in mind which we further refine. In each case, there is always a deeper level of meaning represented that is significant to the couple.
Again, the most important thing is that the gift is a symbolic representation of a couple’s journey together.
Still have Questions?
If you’re considering a custom engagement ring and would like to find out more, please do get in touch or you can also request a quote!