The eternity ring: origins and design
The eternity ring - a band set continuously, or near-continuously, with diamonds or gemstones around the full circumference - became established in its familiar form in the early 20th century, though the idea of an unbroken circle as a symbol of continuing love is much older. Full eternity rings, set all the way round, are the traditional antique eternity ring form; half eternity rings, set only across the top, were developed partly for practicality, since stones on the underside of an eternity ring wear and catch far more than those on top.
Setting style varies with period across our diamond eternity ring collection. Art Deco eternity rings tend to use platinum with sharp claw or channel settings and calibre-cut stones for a crisp, continuous line, while earlier antique eternity rings may use grain or collet settings in gold. Whether you are looking for a full eternity ring or a half eternity ring, the setting style is a good guide to when the piece was made.
Styles in our eternity ring collection
We stock full eternity rings and half eternity rings from the Art Deco period onwards, set with diamonds and, in some designs, coloured gemstones alternating with diamonds. Our antique diamond eternity rings range from delicate Edwardian designs to bold Art Deco eternity rings with geometric channel settings, giving you a wide choice of eternity ring styles across different eras and budgets.
Diamond eternity rings remain a popular choice for wedding anniversaries as well as engagement and wedding jewellery, and many customers choose an antique eternity ring specifically to mark a significant year. We can help you find an eternity ring that matches a specific anniversary or occasion.
Buying an eternity ring: what to look for
Each eternity ring in our collection is checked stone by stone, since a loose or worn claw on a diamond eternity ring is easy to miss without close inspection given how many settings are involved. We describe the diamond quality across the full eternity ring, noting any variation in colour or clarity between stones.
Sizing is worth discussing before you buy a full eternity ring in particular, since the continuous setting can make later resizing more difficult than with an eternity ring that has plain metal at the back of the shank. Ask us about this when you enquire about any full or half eternity ring in our collection.
Visit us or browse online
Our eternity ring collection changes regularly as new pieces come in. Contact us directly if you are searching for a specific eternity ring style or stone combination, or visit our shop at 29 High Street, Battle, East Sussex, open Monday to Saturday, 10:15 to 17:00.
