Eternity rings have been around for thousands of years as a symbol of the unending nature of love. An eternity ring features the same unbroken design or pattern all the way around. This makes it a fitting tribute to the nature of true love that, once begun, continues on without end.

Today, the term eternity ring typically describes a band set with a continuous line of diamonds or other stones. They are usually worn as wedding rings or as a tribute to an important event like an anniversary or the birth of a child. Since they are a continuous circle of diamonds, each eternity ring will require a specific number of diamonds depending on the finger size and size of the diamonds.  If you have a size 4 finger and want .25 ct diamonds, your ring will require less diamonds than a size 8 finger size with .25 ct diamonds.

Eternity Ring Styles

Eternity rings come in many different styles, which can be customized to fit your lifestyle and budget and to compliment your engagement ring. Common styles for eternity rings are channel-set, bezel-set, shared-prong and four-prong. Channel-set rings feature stones that are set into the band in a “channel” between two rows of metal, creating a sleek and streamlined appearance. Bezel-set rings surround the stones in a full or partial ring of metal which cleanly enhances the natural shape of the stone. Shared-prong rings showcase the stones’ brilliance and fire, since adjoining stones are placed in opposite sides of a single prong that is shared by both stones. Four-prong rings place each stone in its own setting which is then connected to its adjoining set stones, creating a classic traditional look that compliments any style. All these ring styles have their advantages and disadvantages, but personal taste will dictate which appeals to you most.

Popular Shapes

Round stones are the most popular shape, but princess, emerald, radiant and asscher cuts are also popular because of their ability to fit tightly next to each other without gaps. Most women choose the stone shape that best matches or compliments their engagement ring.

Diamond Color and Clarity

It is extremely important to make sure the stones of the eternity ring are the same cut and color. Stones that are poorly matched for size and appearance take away from the overall brilliance and appearence of the ring. I recommend G color and SI1 clarity or F Color VS2 for eternity rings.

Eternity Ring Construction

I recommend constructing an eternity ring using open side galleries in platinum.  This is the most secure way to house the diamonds and will create the strongest product.

Conclusion

Eternity Rings are an investment in your future.  Poor quality materials and workmanship may save you money now, but will cost you more money in the long run in repairs and lost stones. A good jeweler will take the time to price your ring according to your ring size, diamond size, color and clarity since smaller rings require less material and cost less to produce.

You should also ask up front how the ring will be constructed as you will want to ensure it is in platinum using open side galleries. The quality of workmanship is very important as eternity rings are one of the hardest and most precise rings to make. Taking these steps will ensure that your eternity ring will last as long as your love and become a treasured heirloom for generations to come.