When many people think “engagement ring” they automatically assume it’s for a woman. While that may be the case traditionally, there’s no reason why a man can’t wear an engagement ring too, and in many cultures, it has always been the norm. As gender roles continue to change, more women are proposing, more same-sex couples are getting married, and more men are seeking out a piece of jewelry to symbolize their commitment. Here’s what you need to know about the growing popularity of the “mangagement ring.”
Contents
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This History of Engagement Rings for Men
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Engagement Rings vs Wedding Bands for Men
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Types of Men’s Engagement Ring
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Custom Designed Men’s Engagement Rings
This History of Engagement Rings for Men
The concept of an engagement ring for men has been around for decades but has only started to break into the mainstream in the Western world in the last few years with many male celebrities jumping on the trend. Similar to the ad campaign that popularized the idea of a diamond being forever, ad agencies tried to push men’s engagement rings in the 1920s by coining more “masculine” names for them such as the “Stag” or the “Master”, but the movement didn’t really take hold.
Men’s wedding bands didn’t even become tradition until the 1940s or 1950s. With more couples cultivating relationships based on the equality of 50/50 partnerships, it makes sense than more men are interested in donning an engagement ring to communicate their intention of becoming a married man in the near future.
Engagement Rings vs Wedding Bands for Men
Many women often opt for a wedding band that stacks with her engagement ring so she’s able to wear them together on the same finger after the wedding. Men, on the other hand, will usually move the engagement ring to their right hand when they get married to make room for the wedding band.
A men’s wedding band is traditionally a simple metal band, while there is more flexibility and room to be creative with the engagement ring. Just like wedding bands, many couples opt for matching engagement rings that complement each other so it’s clear they are a pair. Ultimately, an engagement ring can be whatever you want it to be as long as it fits your style and budget.
Types of Men’s Engagement Ring
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STAINLESS STEEL
Since wedding bands are often gold, stainless steel is one alternative to ensure the engagement ring has its own look.
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DIAMONDS
Diamonds don’t have to be reserved for the bride’s engagement ring. A men’s band encrusted with small diamonds could be the perfect compromise.
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GOLD
A simple gold band can be extremely versatile and include subtle details like brushed or hammered textures, two-toned metals or a personalized engraving.
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TUNGSTEN
Popular for its resilience and scratch resistance, a tungsten band is a smart choice for a ring that might be subject to more wear and tear.
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PLATINUM
Platinum has a silvery hue similar to white gold but appears somewhat whiter. Platinum is also stronger, more durable and hypoallergenic.
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TITANIUM
Both durable and lightweight, titanium bands are created to stand the test of time. With a lustrous sheen, titanium bands can be as luxurious as gold and have the added benefit of being hypoallergenic.
Custom Designed Men’s Engagement Rings
Since engagement rings for men aren’t as mainstream as engagement rings for women, many couples opt to go the custom design route. Designing your own ring can help express how unique your bond truly is and the process can bring your closer together as a couple. Whether you want your engagement rings to match or you have a vision in your head of a ring that represents your relationship, the sky is the limit when it comes to custom design.
