Rings are a common piece of jewellery that can come in many different styles for different occasions. This guide explores 10 different examples and how/when to wear them.
Casual rings
Designed for everyday wear, casual rings can come in many styles, from simple bands to Celtic knots to chunky plastic butterfly rings. They typically don’t include precious metals or gems, and are relatively cheap to buy. Casual rings can be worn on various fingers, with even the option to stack multiple rings on the same finger.
Cocktail rings
Cocktail rings are bold, oversized rings that typically feature a large, eye-catching gemstone. Traditionally worn at cocktail parties, these rings are typically worn at formal celebratory occasions as a way of grabbing people’s attention. They are most commonly worn on the right hand on the middle or ring finger.
Signet rings
Typically featuring a family crest, signet rings are a way to pay tribute to one’s family heritage. Historically, these rings were used to stamp wax seals on envelopes as a way of authenticating them. Nowadays, they are typically worn at family occasions. Certain high-end clubs may also give these rings to members, and they may be worn to club events. You can wear them on any finger, but they are traditionally worn on the little finger of the non-dominant hand.
Mood rings
Mood rings contain a thermochromatic mood stone that is said to change colour based on the wearer’s mood. Different colours represent different emotions. These playful rings tend to be worn on the index or middle finger and can be worn at social events of all kinds as a conversation starter.
Birthstone rings
Birthstone rings contain a stone representing the wearer’s birth month. Every month has its own corresponding gemstone – check out this guide to birthstones. These rings are another great conversation starter at social events that can be worn on any finger.
Smart ring
This hi-tech ring works in a similar fashion to a smartwatch – collecting biometric data that you can check on your smartphone. They can be used to track performance while exercising or to even measure sleep quality, and can be worn on any finger. Compare different types of smart ring models online to find one that you like the look of and that has good reviews.
Promise rings
Typically given as a gift to a loved one as a declaration of love, promise rings are usually given to partners before an engagement ring or as a substitute if a couple has no interest in getting married. They are displayed as a sign of commitment – commonly worn on the ring finger of the right hand. They may contain precious metals or stones, but are usually not as valuable as an engagement ring.
Engagement rings
Engagement rings are presented to a partner as part of a marriage proposal and are traditionally made of gold or silver with a diamond. The most traditional type of engagement ring is the solitaire ring, but nowadays there are so many other styles. In most cultures, this ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand.
Wedding rings
Wedding rings are exchanged by both partners when getting married. In contrast to engagement rings, they usually consist of a plain band without a stone, but they can come in various styles. They usually replace the engagement ring or can be worn alongside it on the same finger.
Memorial rings
Worn as a way of remembering a loved one who has passed, memorial rings may contain an inscription or even a diamond or band containing the loved one’s ashes. They come in various styles and typically require visiting a specialist jeweller. You can wear them on any finger (when remembering a spouse, some people wear them in place of a wedding ring, or on the ring finger of the opposite hand).
*Disclaimer – This is a collaborative post. This post has been pre-written.
