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An LDS couple’s guide to engagement and wedding rings with purpose and peace

There’s something deeply sacred about the ring.

Not just because it’s pretty or expensive — but because it never ends.
Like the sealing ordinance itself, your wedding rings represent a love that goes on forever.

That’s why these rings matter so much. They’re not just jewelry.
They’re symbols of commitment, sacrifice, and eternity.

So, how do you choose the “right” ones?

Whether you’re the bride, the groom, or shopping together, here’s what you’ll want to know as you begin this beautiful (and sometimes overwhelming) part of wedding planning.

A Little History (and a Lot of Meaning)

Did you know that the third finger of the left hand is called the “vena amoris”?
Ancient cultures believed that a vein in that finger led straight to the heart. (We love that.)

And even today, wedding rings symbolize love, purity, and fidelity in nearly every culture.

In our Church, many LDS couples include an LDS ring ceremony in their wedding reception as a visual, touching way to honor the covenant they made in the temple earlier that day.

Rings Are Emotional and Financial

The engagement ring is a moment. It’s part of your proposal story.
The wedding rings are part of your eternal story.

But with all that emotion, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the pressure to “get it right.”

How much should you spend? Should the rings match? Should you go with a bridal set or build something custom?

If your stomach drops every time you walk past a jeweler’s window, take a deep breath.
You don’t need to break the bank — but you do need a plan.

Be a Smart Ring Shopper (Not a Stressed One)

Here are a few quick questions to help you both get clarity:

• Are you shopping together or planning a surprise proposal?

• Do you prefer a bridal set or separate pieces?

• Will your rings match? Complement? Be completely different?

• Are you working with an heirloom or designing from scratch?

• Do you want to engrave a special phrase inside the bands?

• What’s your actual ring budget — not the one advertisers suggest?

And don’t forget to read up on the 4 Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat.
Understanding how diamonds are priced can save you hundreds (or thousands) of dollars.

What If We’re on a Budget?

Please know this: you do not have to go into debt for your wedding rings.

In fact, modern prophets have warned again and again about starting your marriage with financial strain.
And truthfully? A smaller diamond in the right setting often looks larger than a bigger one in the wrong cut.

There’s no shame in starting small. You can always upgrade on an anniversary.
(And that upgrade will mean so much more down the line.)

Ring Shopping Should Be Fun — Not Fear-Inducing

Here’s a little story:
My friend’s mother-in-law dropped by unannounced once when her house was a complete disaster. (She had three toddlers and zero warning.) She laughed it off — and it became part of her family’s legend.

Your ring-buying experience might feel a little messy, too. But it’ll be a story you tell for years.

Whether you end up proposing with a family ring, a custom piece, or a sweet little sparkle from a tiny local shop, what matters is the meaning behind it.

Want Help Choosing the Right Wedding Ring (Without the Stress)?

I've created a full guide for LDS couples called:

How to Choose Engagement and Wedding Rings

Inside, you’ll learn:

• The 4 Cs of diamonds (and how they affect price)

• Popular metals and settings (pros + cons)

• Designing your own ring

• Ring insurance tips

• How to choose her ring size

• What kind of ring to buy for him

• When to shop, what to avoid, and how to stay on budget

And if you use just one tip from the guide, the book will pay for itself several times over.

Your wedding rings are more than accessories.
They’re part of your covenant, your story, your forever.

So choose with love. Choose with faith.
And choose what works for you.