Wedding predictions are off the chart this year. Some researchers estimate there will be over two million weddings in 2022, the highest number of weddings in almost 40 years. As weddings become more and more common post-pandemic, many people are wondering about traditions, especially when it comes to engagement. A question we get asked about often is about men’s engagement rings. Are they the same as men’s wedding rings? Do guys even wear engagement rings? We’ll answer your questions right here so you don’t have to look any further! Engagement Ring History Historically, engagement rings are a new concept — especially the idea of a diamond engagement ring women tend to wear. Before the early 1920s, most couples didn’t wear engagement rings. The history of wedding rings is fascinating, especially as trends and traditions took shape over time. Many ancient cultures wore wedding rings, but most didn’t use engagement rings. Instead, engagement rings became a way to expand the diamond industry and enforce capitalistic ideals. Who Wears An Engagement Ring? Traditionally, women wore engagement rings. However, tradition is meant to be altered and resisted! These days, anyone can wear an engagement ring. Truthfully, the reason men won’t wear engagement rings has a lot to do with the patriarchy. Engagement rings were typically used as a signal to other men that “this one’s taken” — reserved, if you will. While an engagement ring doesn’t mean married, for many couples an engagement ring is almost as good as married. As time has gone on, and more ideas about feminism, equality and equity between men and women has taken form, concepts and ideas about who wears engagement rings have changed too. Another thing to point out is that relationships don’t always involve men and women. The LGBTQIA+ community includes a vast array of relationships and identities, so placing the idea of only women wearing engagement bands out there is restrictive and exclusive. Love is love — and that should be celebrated! No matter who you are or how you identify, you can wear an engagement ring. Find Your Perfect Ring What Is the Difference Between Engagement Rings and Wedding Rings? Another common question we get is about the differences between engagement rings and wedding rings. We’re here to tell you that the bottom line is that there isn’t much of a difference besides the intent. An engagement ring is given with the intent to marry someone. It’s a statement that you’re ready to take the next step with them. A wedding ring, on the other hand, is a physical symbol of your lifelong commitment. For those who are religious, it typically symbolizes the infinite shape of love and loyalty to your partner. When it comes to purchasing engagement and wedding rings, you’ll find that there aren’t many differences between the two. Our wedding rings for women can also double as engagement rings! This is great because you can easily stack or layer your rings without having to worry about the right order or blowing your budget. Is There a Difference in Sizing of Wedding and Engagement Rings? Nope! Wedding and engagement rings are typically similar sizes. However, we recommend using our helpful ring size chart to ensure you get the most accurate measurement. If you already have an engagement band and want to order a wedding band, make sure to put your engagement ring on and leave a little bit of space above it so you can measure around the base of your finger for an accurate wedding band size. What’s the Best Engagement Ring for Guys? We’re so glad you asked! To us, the best engagement rings for men, women and everyone in-between are our silicone rings! They’ve got lots of great benefits. Cost. Our silicone rings are affordable, no matter your budget. You can put more money toward the things that really matter in your relationship because you know you’ve saved while buying your rings. Durability. Our silicone rings feature heat resistance and moisture resistance and don’t warp in the sun. These durable features make them great for anyone who lives an active lifestyle or works in a career that makes it dangerous to wear a metal band. Maintenance. It’s easy to keep your silicone ring clean. No need for specialized cleaning solutions. Instead, simply soak your silicone ring in some warm, soapy water or run it through your dishwasher by placing it in the utensil section of your appliance. These days, anyone can wear an engagement ring. You don’t have to be a woman to wear an engagement ring!