What Is a Bridal Set?

Featured: The Evermore

So, you’ve found “the one.” Congratulations! Now it’s time to explore the exciting world of bridal jewelry. But with terms like engagement rings, wedding sets and wedding bands swirling around, it can be easy to get confused. What is the difference between these rings, and how do you wear them? And just what is a bridal set, anyway? 

Worry not, future brides! This article is your guide to understanding wedding ring sets and engagement rings. In the following paragraphs, we’ll explore how they differ, the pros and cons of stacking and creative ways to wear your engagement ring after your wedding day. Whether you crave a classic, elegant look or a modern, personalized touch, we’ll help you find the perfect way to symbolize your happily ever after. Let’s go!

So, What Is a Bridal Set, Exactly? 

A bridal ring set, also sometimes called a wedding set, refers to a pair of rings specifically designed to be worn together after a woman gets married. It traditionally consists of an engagement ring, typically featuring a larger solitaire gemstone like a diamond, and a wedding band. Often, the wedding band features a simpler design that complements the engagement ring. 

After the wedding ceremony, the wedding band is usually placed on the ring finger first, closest to the heart, followed by the engagement ring on top. Bridal sets offer a cohesive look, with the rings designed to nestle together perfectly.

Who Should Get a Bridal Set?

If you like the idea of transitioning from one ring to another on your wedding day, a bridal set can be helpful. While you can, of course, buy the two separately, bridal ring sets can save you money and hassle. If you plan to go the stackable wedding bands route and wear your engagement and wedding ring on the same hand, bridal sets are a great way to get that look.

Can I Wear Both Pieces of the Bridal Set at Once?

Absolutely! However, if you don’t want to, you don’t have to. Many brides who wear their engagement ring on their wedding day wear the engagement ring on their right hand and the wedding ring on their left.

If you plan to stack the two, you can then transfer the engagement ring back to your left hand after putting on the wedding ring. Though you can wear them in whatever order you like, technically, the correct way is to put the wedding ring on and then the engagement ring over the top of it, as mentioned above. If you really like the look of the engagement ring and then the wedding ring, of course, no one will stop you (we promise). 

The type of wedding band you have may dictate how you will stack your jewelry. Enhancers, for example, are designed to be worn in a certain way to enhance the center stone. Matching sets are also usually made to be worn in a specific order to ensure a perfect match.

When stacking your engagement ring and wedding band, consider your comfort, too. Sometimes, one way of wearing them is more comfortable than the other. If you have a diamond engagement ring with a large center stone, you may feel more comfortable wearing it under your wedding band rather than over it. It’s entirely up to you how you prefer to stack your jewelry after the big day. 

Okay, But What Do I Do with the Engagement Ring After My Wedding?

Throw it out — it’s useless. Kidding! Please do not do that. We’re begging you not to do that.

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There are a number of things you can do with your engagement ring. First, you could continue to wear it on the same finger as your wedding ring. If you’re going this route, another option is to have the two welded together to create a custom band. Bridal sets are meant to fit snugly together, so you don’t need to weld them if you don’t want to.

Another popular choice is to wear your engagement ring on your right hand. Throw a ring on each hand and call it good.

If you don’t want to wear your engagement ring after your wedding day, that’s fine. You can keep it in a safe and maybe bring it out on formal occasions to dial your accessories up to 11. You’re more than free to just keep that bad boy in a safe forever, but that just seems like a bit of a waste.

I Just Know I Won’t End Up Wearing It

If you’re sure you’re never going to wear your engagement ring after your wedding day, you could always just go the one ring route. Whether you want to save money or just know you’ll only be wearing your wedding ring from here on out, it’s a good option. Why spend the extra money when you could save it and put it toward an even nicer ring that serves a dual purpose? 

If you like the idea of matching engagement and wedding rings, though, going for a set may be a great way for you to get the look you love and save some money in the process!

You could also have your engagement ring restyled into another piece of jewelry. A skilled jeweler could turn it into a beautiful pendant or use the round diamond from your engagement ring to make an anniversary ring years after your marriage ceremony. This option works with other diamond shapes, too, and it’s a great way to turn an unused part of a diamond bridal set into an heirloom you’ll enjoy wearing and will be able to pass down to future generations. 

Final Thoughts

While married women traditionally wear their bridal sets on their left ring finger, you are free to wear yours however you like. Consider your comfort and style, and feel confident rocking your silver, rose gold or yellow gold rings however you see fit!