Engagement Ring vs Wedding Band: What’s the Difference?

When my husband proposed nearly ten years ago, he knelt in the middle of Gardens by the Bay (sweating profusely, bless him) and opened a velvet box to reveal a diamond solitaire [48. Types of Diamonds for Engagement Rings]. I was overjoyed — and admittedly, also unsure if that one ring was it. Was this my wedding ring too? I remember whispering to my sister later that evening, “So… do I need another one?”

Turns out, I wasn’t the only one confused.

So let’s settle this, once and for all: What’s the difference between an engagement ring and a wedding band? And how should couples in Singapore think about choosing — and wearing — both?

💍 The Engagement Ring: A Promise in a Box

The engagement ring is the “I want to marry you” ring. It’s usually the flashier one, given during the proposal (surprise or not).

• Design: Typically features a prominent gemstone — often a diamond — in a prong or halo setting.
• Tradition: Worn on the fourth finger of the left hand (aka the ring finger).
• When It’s Given: During the proposal, or sometimes purchased together as a couple.
• In Singapore: Many couples buy their engagement rings from jewellers in Orchard, Raffles Place or online boutiques. Bespoke rings are also increasingly popular.

Price range in SG: Typically anywhere from $1,000 to $50,000 and above — depending on diamond quality, size, and setting. Singaporeans are increasingly opting for lab-grown diamonds and unique cuts to stay within budget.

💫 The Wedding Band: The Symbol of Commitment

The wedding band (or wedding ring) is exchanged during the solemnisation ceremony. It’s the ring that says, “We’re married now.”

• Design: Simpler and more timeless — often a plain metal band, or one with small embedded stones.
• When It’s Worn: Placed on the ring finger during the wedding ceremony. After marriage, it’s usually worn together with the engagement ring.
• Unisex: Both partners wear wedding bands — yes, even the guys!

In Singapore: Many couples pick their wedding bands together. Popular choices include matching bands in platinum, white gold or rose gold. Some even engrave their wedding dates or a short phrase inside.

💍💫 How Do You Wear Both?

Traditionally, you wear both rings on the same finger, with the wedding band worn first (closer to your heart), and the engagement ring stacked above it.

• Some brides wear their engagement ring on their right hand after the wedding for a cleaner look.
• Others only wear their wedding band day-to-day and reserve the engagement ring for special occasions (like anniversary dinners or big events).

There’s no hard rule — it’s about comfort, lifestyle and sentiment.

💡 Final Thoughts from En Ting

In the swirl of pre-wedding decisions — venues [45. 5 Popular Wedding Venues in Singapore (2025 Q1 Edition!)], gowns [47. Different Wedding dresses for different body types], caterers — it’s easy to see rings as just another checklist item. But for many couples, these two rings carry deep meaning: one marks the beginning of the journey, the other seals the vow.

Personally, I still wear both. My engagement ring reminds me of the thrill and nervous joy of that day in the Gardens. My wedding band? It grounds me. It’s a symbol of the daily, quiet, beautiful work of marriage.

So whether you choose one ring or two, simple bands or diamond-studded stacks — may they always remind you not just of a perfect day, but of a shared life ahead.