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Buying or receiving an engagement ring is one of life’s most thrilling moments. It is also a moment filled with questions, traditions, and even myths about what is “supposed” to happen. At Adam Foster Fine Jewelry, we believe your perfect ring should reflect your personal style and your love story, not just a list of traditions. Still, knowing the guidelines and history can help you feel confident as you step into this meaningful part of life. A Little History of Engagement Ring Etiquette The tradition of wearing rings on the ring finger of the left hand dates back to the Romans, who believed a vein ran directly from that finger to the heart. Over the centuries, the ring has evolved into a visible promise, worn before the wedding ceremony begins. Today, there are many engagement ring designs to choose from, ranging from classic solitaire settings to bold pavé bands and colorful gemstones like aquamarine or sapphires. How Much Should an Engagement Ring Cost? Perhaps the most famous of the so-called engagement ring rules comes from a 20th-century marketing campaign suggesting a groom should spend three months’ salary on the ring. The truth is that there is no fixed rule. Some choose to follow the tradition of two months’ salary or three months’ salary, while others set a budget based on their own circumstances. The average cost of a ring is just that—an average. The only “rule” is to spend an amount that feels right for your relationship. Choosing the Stone and Style A diamond engagement ring remains the most popular choice, especially with options like lab-grown diamonds, which provide the same sparkle and cut diamond quality as natural diamonds but at a more accessible price point. Some couples love the timeless look of a round brilliant, while others gravitate toward shapes such as marquise or emerald. Moissanite and other gemstones can also be beautiful alternatives. When it comes to carat weight, clarity, and sparkle, every center stone tells its own story. The setting also plays a role, whether you love a sleek prong, a dramatic halo, or something entirely vintage-inspired. Engagement ring etiquette has expanded to embrace every ring style imaginable. Which Hand and Finger? Traditionally, the engagement ring is worn on the left-hand ring finger, and during the marriage ceremony, the wedding band is placed on the finger first, with the engagement ring stacked above. Some people prefer to wear their engagement ring on the right hand, and in many cultures, that is the norm. Again, personal preference is what matters most. Pairing with a Wedding Ring Once the proposal is behind you, thoughts often turn to how the engagement ring will pair with the wedding ring. Some couples opt for a seamless ring set, while others enjoy mixing styles with contrasting metals such as white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold. Whether you prefer a plain metal band, a diamond wedding band, or something custom-designed, the pairing should feel harmonious to the wearer. Create Your Custom Ring Engagement Ring Rules FAQs Do I have to spend three months’ salary on an engagement ring?No. The three months’ salary guideline was a marketing campaign from decades ago. The cost of an engagement ring should reflect your budget and your priorities, not a formula. Can I choose a gemstone other than a diamond?Yes. While the diamond engagement ring remains the most popular choice, gemstones like sapphires, aquamarine, or even an heirloom stone can make a meaningful and distinctive statement. What if I don’t know my partner’s ring size?A skilled jeweler can help. You can bring in an existing ring worn on the same finger, or we can measure discreetly to find the correct size. If adjustments are needed, ring resizing is always an option. Which hand should the engagement ring be worn on?Traditionally, the left hand is standard in the United States, but in many cultures, the ring is worn on the right hand. There is no absolute rule. How do I make sure I choose the perfect ring?Engagement ring etiquette is about guidance, not restrictions. Focus on your partner’s personal style, their lifestyle, and the engagement ring trends that appeal to them. The perfect ring is one that feels right for the two of you. Write Your Own Rules At Adam Foster Fine Jewelry, we see engagement ring shopping as a celebration rather than a checklist. From selecting the center stone and exploring engagement ring designs to pairing your ring with a timeless wedding band, our team of expert jewelers will guide you with artistry and care. In the end, the most important rule is simple: your ring should feel like it was made for your love story. Contact Us Today.

When it comes to jewelry that carries the most meaning, engagement rings and the wedding ring stand at the top. Both are cherished symbols of love, but they serve different roles in your journey from proposal to wedding ceremony and beyond. At Adam Foster Fine Jewelry, we believe that understanding these traditions makes the experience of ring shopping even more meaningful. The Engagement Ring: A Promise to Begin The engagement ring marks the start of a new chapter. Traditionally worn on the left-hand ring finger, this piece often features a center stone such as a diamond engagement ring, lab-grown diamond, or gemstones like sapphires. Popular engagement ring styles range from classic solitaire rings and three-stone designs to modern pavé settings and vintage-inspired halos. The engagement ring is often more ornate than the wedding band, designed to capture attention and tell the start of your love story. Choices of precious metals such as white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold provide both beauty and durability. Whether set in prongs, a bezel, or accented with smaller stones, an engagement ring reflects the wearer’s personal preference and style. The Wedding Ring: A Circle Without End The wedding ring is exchanged during the marriage ceremony and represents the lifelong bond of two people. Often called a wedding band, it is usually simpler in design, crafted from precious metals like gold or platinum, though modern styles may include diamond wedding bands, eternity bands, or engraved details. Classic choices include a plain metal band or a stackable design that pairs beautifully with the engagement ring to create a complete ring set. Both women’s and men’s wedding bands are designed for everyday wear, and their simplicity makes them versatile pieces of fine jewelry. Wearing Them Together Most traditions place both rings on the fourth finger of the left hand, with the wedding band worn closest to the heart. Some people choose to wear their diamond ring on the right hand or alternate between the two depending on the occasion. For those who prefer a single ring, a more elaborate wedding band with smaller stones can serve both roles. There is no single correct way to wear them. Engagement rings and wedding rings ultimately reflect the wearer’s story and personal preference, from minimalist styles to ornate pairings with significant carat weight. Care and Customization Both rings are designed to be worn daily, which makes resizing, engraving, and occasional maintenance important. A skilled jeweler ensures the prongs remain secure, the finish is maintained, and the fit is always comfortable. Couples often return to their jeweler for wedding ring sets, anniversary bands, or other special occasions that add to their growing collection of meaningful jewelry. Create Your Custom Ring A Tradition Rooted in History The practice of wearing rings on the left-hand ring finger can be traced back to the Romans, who believed a vein ran directly from this finger to the heart. Over centuries, engagement rings and wedding rings have evolved in style and meaning, but they remain enduring symbols of love across cultures. Engagement Rings vs. Wedding Ring FAQs What is the main difference between engagement rings and wedding bands?An engagement ring is given at the time of proposal and usually features a center stone like a diamond or colored gemstone. A wedding band is exchanged during the wedding ceremony and is often simpler, such as a plain metal band or an eternity band. Do I have to wear both rings together?Not at all. Some choose to wear only the diamond engagement ring, others wear both as a ring set, and some alternate between their wedding ring and engagement ring depending on the occasion. Can engagement rings and wedding rings be resized?Yes. Ring resizing is common, especially after years of everyday wear. A local jeweler can ensure a comfortable fit for both. What metals are best for durability?White gold, yellow gold, and rose gold are popular choices for their strength and beauty. Platinum is another durable option. Your choice depends on your lifestyle and personal preference. What engagement ring styles are most popular right now?Classic solitaire designs, pavé settings, three-stone rings, and diamond wedding bands continue to be best sellers. Many couples also explore gemstones like sapphires or rubies for a distinctive look. Can I engrave my wedding band?Yes, many couples add engravings to their bands to mark a date, name, or phrase that makes the piece of jewelry even more personal. Your Love Story, Your Rings Whether you choose a solitaire engagement ring, a diamond wedding band, or a paired ring set, your rings should reflect the essence of your relationship. At Adam Foster Fine Jewelry, our expert jewelers help guide you through ring shopping with artistry, warmth, and care. From the moment you say “yes” to the moment you say “I do,” your rings are more than jewelry. They are lasting reminders of the day your love story became forever. Stop by our intimate studio! Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcome! Contact us today.

Which One Should You Choose? In every piece of jewelry, there is a story waiting to be told. Sometimes that story shines in the cool luster of white gold. Other times, it glows with the softer light of sterling silver. Both precious metals belong to the family of white metals, and both are beloved for their elegance, versatility, and ability to elevate design. But each has its own personality, and knowing their main differences can help you choose the right one for your lifestyle, personal style, and your budget. The Allure of White Gold White gold jewelry carries a quiet brilliance: cool, luminous, and refined. It begins with pure gold, an incredibly soft metal in its natural state. To create white gold, jewelers blend it with white gold alloys such as palladium or nickel, creating an alloy of gold that is stronger, paler, and more durable for everyday wear. Most white gold pieces are then finished with rhodium plating, a reflective layer that enhances the brightness and improves scratch resistance. White gold is a popular choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewelry worn daily. It offers a clean, polished white color that beautifully complements gemstones, especially diamonds and cool-toned stones like sapphires or aquamarines. Over time, that rhodium plating may wear thin, especially on rings, and a quick re-plating will restore the original shine. This natural evolution is not a flaw; it’s a small part of the life your jewelry lives with you. For clients with sensitive skin and metal allergies, it’s important to discuss the type of white gold alloys used. For example, some include nickel, which may cause allergic reactions. At Adam Foster Fine Jewelry, we’re always happy to guide you toward the best options for your comfort and hypoallergenic needs. The Charm of Sterling Silver Sterling silver jewelry has a softer, more relaxed kind of glow. Its undertone is warmer than white gold, though still part of the white metal family. Composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper or other silver alloys, sterling is malleable enough for intricate designs, yet durable enough for everyday pieces like fine silver rings, earrings, and pendants. It’s also the more budget-friendly option, making it an ideal choice for experimenting with custom design, commemorating a special moment, or gifting a piece of jewelry with personal meaning. The biggest consideration with silver pieces is tarnish. Unlike white gold, silver tarnishes naturally over time through a process called oxidation, which results in a darker patina on the surface. Some clients love this character and charm, especially in vintage-inspired designs. Others prefer to keep their silver luminous, which is simple with regular cleaning upkeep or a professional silver polish. While silver isn’t quite as hard as white gold, it’s perfect for many styles of fine jewelry, particularly when paired with strong design and craftsmanship. So, Which Metal Should You Choose? If you're creating something with lasting meaning—like an engagement ring, wedding ring, or heirloom that will be passed down—a white gold ring may be the better option for its longevity, gold content, and resistance to daily wear. It’s also ideal if you want to showcase a center stone with a sleek, white color that enhances clarity and brilliance. If you’re building a small collection of expressive, meaningful jewelry or gifting someone with a custom design that’s all their own, sterling silver offers unmatched affordability and charm. It allows you to create beautiful, lustrous pieces without the higher price point of gold. Whatever you choose, we’re here to help you select with intention and confidence. Our jewelers are artists, makers, and thoughtful guides. We consider not only the metal, but the memory and the story behind what you’re designing. Because what matters most is not just the metal, but the meaning you create with it. Let’s Create Something Meaningful Together Stop by our intimate studio to browse our selection of fine jewelry or talk with a consultant about designing something in white gold or silver. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins are always welcome! Contact us today.