What is the Third Wedding Ring Called? A Deep Dive into the Symbolism and Meaning of Wedding Rings
When you think of wedding rings, most people envision two bands—one for the bride and one for the groom. These rings, exchanged during the wedding ceremony, are a lasting symbol of love, commitment, and the vows made between two people. But what if I told you there’s more than just the traditional wedding and engagement rings? In recent years, the concept of a third wedding ring has gained traction.
In this article, I will take a deep dive into what the third wedding ring is called, why it’s becoming more popular, and the significance of having a third ring as part of your bridal jewelry collection. Additionally, I’ll provide some insights on the different types of third wedding rings and how you can make the decision of whether or not to include one in your journey.
Understanding the Tradition of Wedding Rings
Before we delve into what the third wedding ring is, it’s important to understand the traditional roles that wedding rings play in many cultures, particularly in Western traditions. In most cases, there are two key rings involved in a marriage: the engagement ring and the wedding band.
- Engagement Ring: This is typically given at the time of the proposal, symbolizing the promise of marriage. Traditionally, it often features a prominent diamond or gemstone, highlighting the commitment and the excitement of the engagement.
- Wedding Band: This is exchanged during the actual wedding ceremony and represents the vows made. Wedding bands are usually simpler in design than engagement rings and are often worn alongside the engagement ring after the ceremony.
Both of these rings symbolize a couple’s lifelong commitment to each other, and they are the most widely recognized pieces of jewelry in the context of marriage. But now, let’s explore the growing trend of a third wedding ring.
What is the Third Wedding Ring?
A third wedding ring, often referred to as an eternity ring or anniversary ring, is a ring given to a partner after the wedding ceremony. It’s typically given to commemorate an important milestone in the relationship, such as the first anniversary, a significant wedding anniversary, or another major life event like the birth of a child.
While it doesn’t hold the same ceremonial importance as the wedding and engagement rings, the third ring serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of the couple’s love and commitment over time.
The third ring might come in various forms and styles, depending on personal taste and significance. It is not always part of the immediate wedding experience but is often a thoughtful and sentimental gesture that further strengthens the bond between partners.
Types of Third Wedding Rings
While there is no single “right” design for a third wedding ring, there are a few common types that people typically consider. Each of these rings carries its own meaning and significance, and the decision of which one to go with largely depends on personal preferences, cultural traditions, and the occasion being celebrated.
1. Eternity Ring
The eternity ring is one of the most popular forms of third wedding rings. This ring features a continuous band of diamonds or gemstones that encircle the entire ring, symbolizing the eternal, never-ending nature of a couple’s love. It is often given on significant anniversaries, such as the 10th, 25th, or 50th wedding anniversary.
Eternity rings are symbolic of unbroken love, and the full circle of diamonds or gemstones signifies continuity and eternity. They are typically more lavish than a wedding band, with diamonds set all around the band or only partially set around it.
2. Anniversary Ring
The anniversary ring is another type of third wedding ring. While it can be similar to the eternity ring in its diamond setting, an anniversary ring often features a more varied design. The anniversary ring might have diamonds set in a specific pattern or mixed with colored gemstones to mark the occasion.
Anniversary rings are usually given to commemorate a particular year or milestone in the marriage. For example, a first-anniversary ring could feature a diamond with a meaningful engraving or a special stone that represents the couple’s journey together.
3. Push Present Ring
A push present ring is a specific type of third ring given to a mother after the birth of a child. This gift is meant to celebrate the mother’s journey through pregnancy and childbirth and to honor her for bringing a new life into the world.
Push presents often come in the form of a ring, sometimes with a gemstone or diamond that represents the child’s birthstone, or simply a ring with a meaningful engraving that commemorates the occasion. This third ring, while not as traditional, has become increasingly popular as a way for partners to express their appreciation for the mother.
4. Stackable Rings
For those who want flexibility in their wedding rings, stackable rings are a popular option. These rings are designed to be worn in a stack, with the engagement ring, wedding band, and third ring stacked together to create a cohesive look. Many people choose to add a stackable ring after a milestone, such as an anniversary or the birth of a child.
Stackable rings can come in a variety of designs, from simple bands to rings with small diamonds or gemstones. The beauty of stackable rings is that they can be mixed and matched, allowing for customization and personalization.
Why Do People Choose to Have a Third Wedding Ring?
The third wedding ring is often given as a way to commemorate a significant milestone in a couple’s life together. Below are a few reasons why couples may decide to add a third ring to their wedding jewelry collection:
1. Celebrating an Anniversary
One of the most common reasons for getting a third wedding ring is to celebrate a special wedding anniversary. Couples often choose to mark a significant anniversary (like the 5th, 10th, or 25th) with a meaningful gift. The third ring could be an eternity ring, an anniversary band, or any other ring design that represents the couple’s lasting love and commitment.
2. Commemorating the Birth of a Child
Another reason for choosing a third wedding ring is to mark the birth of a child. Many parents give their partners a ring as a push present to celebrate the arrival of their baby. This type of third ring is often more personalized and may feature the child’s birthstone or other meaningful symbols.
3. A Symbol of Long-Term Commitment
For some, a third wedding ring is simply a way to honor the lasting nature of their relationship. It’s a gesture that demonstrates how their love has deepened and grown over time. Whether it’s for a first anniversary or a milestone anniversary, the third ring serves as a symbol of a love that has withstood the test of time.
4. Strengthening the Bond Between Partners
A third wedding ring can also serve as a way to strengthen the emotional bond between partners. It’s an opportunity for one partner to show appreciation for the other, whether it’s for their support during challenging times or for the shared experiences they’ve had together.
5. Personalized Expression
Lastly, some couples choose a third ring as a way to express their unique connection or to add a personal touch to their wedding jewelry collection. Whether it’s an anniversary ring, a push present, or something completely original, the third ring is a way to mark their own journey and love story.
Choosing the Right Third Wedding Ring for You
If you’re considering adding a third wedding ring to your collection, there are several factors to consider when making your decision. First, think about the occasion you’re celebrating. Are you marking an anniversary? Did you just have a baby? Are you simply looking for a way to commemorate your love?
The next step is to decide on the style of ring that resonates with you. Do you prefer the elegance of an eternity ring, the personalized touch of a push present ring, or something more understated, like a stackable band?
Finally, consider your budget. Wedding and engagement rings can be expensive, so it’s important to choose a third ring that fits within your financial plans. Many jewelers offer a variety of options at different price points, so take your time and choose a piece that feels special.
Conclusion
The third wedding ring is a beautiful, sentimental addition to a couple’s collection of wedding jewelry. Whether it’s an eternity ring to celebrate a significant anniversary, a push present ring to mark the birth of a child, or a simple stackable band to represent your journey together, the third ring serves as a meaningful token of your ongoing love and commitment.
No matter the occasion, a third wedding ring is a beautiful way to continue honoring your partnership. The right third ring can become a cherished family heirloom, passed down through generations, symbolizing the timeless love shared between you and your partner.
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)
1. What is the third wedding ring called? The third wedding ring is typically called an eternity ring, anniversary ring, or push present ring, depending on the occasion. It symbolizes the ongoing love and commitment shared between a couple.
2. When should I give a third wedding ring? A third wedding ring is often given on significant anniversaries (e.g., 5th, 10th, 25th) or after the birth of a child. It can also be given at any moment to symbolize a milestone or to strengthen the bond between partners.
3. Can a third wedding ring be stacked with the engagement ring? Yes! Many couples choose to wear stackable rings, where the engagement ring, wedding band, and third ring are stacked together for a cohesive look.
4. How much should a third wedding ring cost? The price of a third wedding ring varies depending on factors such as design, metal, and gemstones. Be sure to set a budget that works for you and your partner.
5. Can I choose a third ring that isn’t a diamond? Absolutely! While diamonds are popular choices, third wedding rings can feature any gemstone that holds personal significance, such as birthstones or sapphires.
Reoxvo Dainty Bracelets for Women Trendy, Sterling Silver Plated Brass Link Chain Charm Bracelet Set for Women Stack 14K Gold Plated Brass Link Bracelets Jewelry Gift for Women
$9.99 (as of March 13, 2025 14:31 GMT -03:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)