Eternity Rings: What They Symbolise and How to Choose One

The eternity ring is a timeless symbol of lasting love. A circle of precious metal set with diamonds or gemstones all the way around, it represents something that has no beginning and no end. It’s no surprise, then, that this style of ring is most often given to mark life’s most significant moments such as anniversaries, milestone birthdays, the birth of a child, or simply as a celebration of enduring commitment.

But beyond its meaning, an eternity ring is also a beautiful piece of craftsmanship. It can be bold or delicate, classic or contemporary, and finding the right one comes down to personal style and how you want it to feel when worn every day.

The History and Symbolism of Eternity Rings

The idea of the eternity ring dates back thousands of years, with the first known versions traced to Ancient Egypt. These early rings, often made of braided reeds or carved from bone, were exchanged as tokens of eternal love and unity. Over time, the design evolved into the gemstone-set bands we know today, but the meaning remains the same.

In modern times, eternity rings are most commonly given by a partner to celebrate a relationship that has grown over time. They often join an engagement ring and wedding band as part of a bridal stack, though they are just as meaningful when worn alone.

An eternity ring can also be a gift to oneself. For some, it marks a personal achievement or transition, a way to honour a moment of change, growth or strength.

Full vs Half Eternity: What’s the Difference?

A full eternity ring features gemstones set all the way around the band, forming an unbroken circle of brilliance. It’s a striking choice and is often chosen for its symbolism and visual impact. However, because the stones continue all the way round, full eternity rings cannot usually be resized.

A half eternity ring, on the other hand, features stones set across the top of the band only, leaving the underside plain. This design is more practical for everyday wear, allows for easier resizing, and is often more comfortable between the fingers. It’s also a great choice if you're looking to pair it with other rings.

Which Stones and Metals to Choose

Diamonds are the most traditional choice for eternity rings, symbolising enduring strength and clarity. Their sparkle complements both engagement rings and wedding bands, especially when set in platinum or white gold.

However, there’s growing interest in coloured gemstone eternity rings, from sapphires and rubies to emeralds and birthstones. These can add a personal touch and often carry their own layers of meaning.

As for metal, think about what suits your skin tone, your existing jewellery, and how you wear your rings day to day. Many people choose to match their eternity ring to their wedding set, but mixing metals can be beautiful too. Whether you favour yellow, rose or white gold, or the cool tone of platinum, it’s worth trying a few on to see what feels most natural.

When to Give or Wear an Eternity Ring

There are no fixed rules, and that’s part of what makes them special. Some are given on a wedding anniversary, others on the arrival of a first child, and some simply as a romantic gesture or self-gift. At Walter Bull & Son, we often help couples choose eternity rings to mark ten, twenty or even fifty years together. Sometimes it’s a surprise, and sometimes it’s a decision made together, each one tells its own story.

An eternity ring is more than just a piece of jewellery. It’s a quiet promise, a visible expression of something ongoing and cherished. Whether you’re celebrating love, honouring a memory or marking a new beginning, an eternity ring is a meaningful way to carry that sentiment with you, every day.