OK, Really, What's the Difference Between Eternity Rings and Infinity Rings?

Eternity rings. Infinity rings. They might sound identical, but the two are actually quite different in design. Although their intent is the same — to express undying love — if you learn the differences between them, you might find that one design is a closer fit to your personal style. And while one of them is an option for your engagement ring, the other tends to be an additional ring (though ring stacks can be found on the trendy brides du jour).

What are Eternity Rings?

An eternity ring features diamonds or gemstones encircling the entire band, symbolizing never-ending love and lifelong commitment. It’s often gifted in addition to an engagement ring and wedding band, typically to celebrate a milestone anniversary, the birth of a child, or another meaningful moment in a long-term relationship.

While the symbolism is timeless, the modern diamond eternity ring became widely popular in the mid-20th century as jewelry designers began creating full-circle styles that showcased smaller stones in a continuous row. These designs resonated with couples looking for a piece that visually represents an unbroken bond.

It’s worth noting that an engagement ring with pavé diamonds on the band—even those that extend underneath—doesn’t technically qualify as an eternity ring. The center stone’s setting must be attached to the band, which interrupts the circle of diamonds. A true eternity ring features stones set all the way around with no beginning and no end.

In what order do you wear your eternity ring? Tradition dictates that the wedding ring is worn on the ring finger of the left hand, and worn first, so it's closer to the heart. If you wear all your rings on the same finger, then comes the engagement ring, then the eternity ring.

What is an Infinity Ring?

An infinity ring has a similar significance: It symbolizes love that goes on and on forever.

But instead of a perpetual circle of diamonds, the infinity ring's design incorporates the infinity sign, or figure 8, to signify that infinite relationship.

The infinity sign can be incorporated into an infinity ring in a number of different ways: Some infinity rings have infinity symbols at the top of the ring, where a center diamond would go. Others replicate the infinity symbol in the band, and some people refer to bands that even slightly mimic this shape (with a twisting pattern) as infinity rings.

At With Clarity, our infinity rings incorporate the infinity symbol into the band, though there's variation in the arc of the curves and how much accent diamonds are used. The Infinity Winding Engagement Ring, for example, uses pave stones almost all the way around the ring, and the symbol is smaller and tighter. The Winding Diamond Engagement Ring is similar, but the arcs are even tighter and could be called twists, and the diamonds only extend halfway down the band. And some, like the Flowing Halo Diamond Engagement Ring, seem to work the symbol of everlasting love seamlessly into a design with a diamond halo.

Are Diamond Eternity Rings or Infinity Rings More Expensive?

The price of a ring depends on the total weight of diamonds set within it (or CTTW). Eternity rings have a full circle of pave diamonds, but that doesn't necessarily mean they're more expensive. It depends on the style of infinity ring you choose, and whether it includes diamonds. Some infinity rings contain a center stone, which can push the price up considerably; others can be simple silver bands shaped like an all-around figure 8.

Ready to start shopping? Explore our stunning range of affordable, ethically sourced eternity rings and infinity rings, including the Diamond Pave Engagement Ring, Forever Twisting Diamond Engagement Ring, and our Open Twist Diamond Engagement Ring.