There’s something quietly powerful about jewellery that tells a story — and few pieces do it better than the eternity ring. Timeless and deeply symbolic, the eternity ring isn’t just a beautiful band — it’s a circle of meaning, love, and continuity.
But what exactly is an eternity ring? When is the right time to give one? And how do you choose the right style, metal, and stone? Let’s take a closer look at this elegant piece of jewellery that says forever — without saying a word.
What Is an Eternity Ring?
An eternity ring — sometimes called an infinity ring — is a band set with a continuous line of gemstones, typically diamonds, all the way around. The unbroken circle symbolises eternal love, commitment, and an ongoing journey together.
It’s often gifted later in a relationship — not at the beginning, but somewhere in the middle of your story, when the depth and meaning of your connection have grown.
When Do You Give an Eternity Ring?
Traditionally, eternity rings mark a milestone moment in life or love. Some of the most common times to give one include:
- A wedding anniversary (especially significant ones like 10, 25, or 50 years)
- The birth of a child — as a symbolic “push present”
- A renewal of vows, or a celebration of a new chapter
- Or simply when words aren’t enough
It’s a gesture that quietly says: we’ve come this far — and we’ll keep going.
Types of Eternity Rings
There are a few styles of eternity rings, each with their own practical and aesthetic strengths:
Full Eternity
- Gemstones circle the entire band
- Offers a seamless, luxurious sparkle
- Usually not resizable, so sizing must be accurate
Half Eternity
- Stones cover the top half of the band
- More comfortable for everyday wear
- Easier to resize if needed
Three-Quarter Eternity
- Covers most of the band with stones, leaving a small plain section at the back
- A nice balance between beauty and wearability
Choosing the Right Fit
Getting the ring size right is especially important for eternity rings, which are often not resizable — particularly full-band styles.
A few ways to find the perfect fit:
- Use a soft tape measure to measure the finger in millimetres
- Borrow a ring that already fits the finger the eternity ring will go on, and have it sized at a jeweller
- Trace the inside of that ring on paper or press it into something soft like soap or clay, if you want to keep it a surprise
A good jeweller can help convert those millimetre measurements into the correct ring size for your region.
Metals and Carats: What to Know
The metal you choose affects not only the look of the ring but also its feel and long-term durability.
Popular Choices Include:
- Yellow Gold – classic and warm, especially in higher carats
- White Gold – sleek and modern, often plated with rhodium for extra shine
- Rose Gold – romantic and soft, with a gentle pink hue
- Platinum – strong, naturally white, and hypoallergenic
What Are Carats?
Carats in gold refer to its purity — how much of the metal is actually gold versus other metals used for strength and colour. The higher the carat, the more pure the gold — but also the softer it is.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
- 24k = 99.9% gold — pure, rich, but very soft
- 18k = 75% gold — luxurious and durable enough for regular wear
- 14k = 58.3% gold — a popular balance between strength and shine
- 10k = 41.7% gold — strong and more resistant to scratching
- 9k = 37.5% gold — commonly used in the UK and Australia, more affordable and hard-wearing
While 9ct gold has a lower gold content, it’s often chosen for its durability and budget-friendliness, making it a practical choice for everyday jewellery like eternity rings — especially if the look and sentiment matter more than purity alone.
Gemstones and Style
While diamonds are the most traditional choice for eternity rings — representing clarity, strength, and endurance — they’re by no means the only option.
Popular Gemstones:
- Diamonds – timeless and dazzling, in round, princess, or baguette cuts
- Sapphires – deep blue and meaningful (symbolising wisdom and loyalty)
- Emeralds – vivid green, rich with symbolism and character
- Rubies – fiery red, associated with passion and protection
- Birthstones – a personal touch to mark the month of a child, or your own birth month
You can also mix stones, alternate colours, or add custom elements to make the ring completely unique.
Final Thought
An eternity ring is more than just a beautiful piece of jewellery. It’s a celebration of everything that’s already been shared — and a promise of all that’s still to come. Whether you give one to mark a birth, an anniversary, or just a quiet moment of love, it’s a deeply meaningful gesture that lasts far beyond the sparkle.
🌿 Loved this post?
Stay close to GertieBlu for more timeless jewellery stories, thoughtful guides, and a little everyday elegance.
With love,
GertieBlu ✨
