Are men’s engagement rings on the rise?

Published
09/16/2024

Have you noticed men sporting engagement rings? It’s a trend that reflects today’s cultural norms around relationships and marriage.

Here, we’ll explore the history behind engagement rings, their popularity among men and the various styles that are available.

What’s the tradition behind engagement rings?

“While engagement rings signify a bond and promise of eternal love today, back thousands of years ago, they were worn more for contractual purposes” says Wedding Style Magazine.

They are thought to originate from Ancient Rome in about 200 BC and were “made of flint, bone, ivory, bronze or iron”.

They were worn on ring fingers as they believed that “the fourth finger on the left hand had a “vein of love” that attached to the heart.

Now, engagement rings still symbolize the promise of marriage – but are considered a token of love and commitment between two people, rather than a contract or sign of ownership.

The ring’s circular shape is thought to represent eternal love as it has no beginning or end.

Diamonds remain one of the most popular gemstones for engagement rings as they are incredibly durable and strong, symbolizing a couple’s commitment to be together forever.

Are engagement rings for men becoming more popular? 
         
                           

Today, it’s still hugely popular for people to propose to their significant other with an engagement ring. Yet they are most commonly given to and worn by women.

This concept is now shifting to include men, influenced by changing gender roles and cultural shifts.

Many high-profile celebrities have embraced wearing them, including Ed Sheeran, Ryan Reynolds and Michael Bublé, says Hello! mag.

They say that Ed Sheeran was spotted back in 2018 wearing a ring. The magazine said he chatted to Lorraine Kelly about his band, stating “I never saw why men didn’t wear engagement rings. It’s the same commitment either way”.

What materials and styles are available for men’s engagement rings?

There’s a huge variety of engagement rings for men, so there’s something to suit everyone. Choose from metals like classic yellow gold, rose gold, platinum or titanium, which is popular due to its affordability and strength.

You can opt for bands encrusted with diamonds for a traditional look, choose a plain band or go for a brushed effect. Coloured gemstones are another striking option – with designs featuring sapphires, rubies or emeralds.

If you want something extra special, why not get a custom ring made for your significant other? You could have the band engraved with your names, the date you met or the date you intend to get hitched.

With plenty of options to choose from, men now have the opportunity to showcase their commitment in a way that suits their unique style.

Do you think men’s engagement rings will continue to grow in popularity?