Full vs Half Eternity Bands: How to Choose
An eternity band is a ring set with a continuous line of matching stones, a symbol of love without end. It comes in two versions. A full eternity band has stones all the way around, and a half eternity band has them across the top, with plain metal underneath. From the front they look alike, so the choice comes down to how you wear your rings. Here is how they compare.
The full eternity band
Shown: Sabrina Round Moissanite Full Eternity Band
A full eternity band sparkles from every angle. However it turns on the finger, a row of stones faces up, which suits anyone who wears the band on its own or likes the shine to show from the side.
The stones on the underside sit between your fingers. Some people never notice them; others feel them when they grip a bag handle or hold hands. With no plain metal to cut and rejoin, a full eternity band cannot be resized, so the size you order is the size you keep.
The half eternity band
Shown: Polly Round Moissanite Half Eternity Band
A half eternity band puts its stones where they show, across the top of the finger, and leaves smooth metal underneath. That makes it comfortable to wear every day, and the plain underside sits easily against the rings next to it. With fewer stones, a half eternity band usually costs less than a full one set with the same stones.
Side by side
| Full eternity | Half eternity | |
|---|---|---|
| Sparkle | All the way around | Across the top |
| Underside | Stones between the fingers | Smooth metal |
| Stacking | A statement band on its own or in a stack | An easy partner for an engagement ring |
| Price | Higher, with more stones | Lower, with fewer stones |
Stone shapes
Shown: Kiara Heart Moissanite Half Eternity Band
Round stones are the classic choice for both, with the most sparkle of any shape. Our half eternity bands also come in baguette, emerald, princess, oval, pear, marquise and heart cuts, which turn a simple band into a pattern. Hearts or pears in a row look romantic; baguettes and emeralds look clean and modern. In our Eternity Bands collection, the styles with stones across the top have “Half Eternity” in their names.
Wearing one with an engagement ring
A half eternity band is the easy match for an engagement ring. Both rings show their stones on top, and their plain undersides sit comfortably together. Match the band's metal and stone size to the engagement ring for a pair that looks made together, or pick a contrasting shape, such as baguettes beside a round center. A full eternity band works well as an anniversary ring or worn on the other hand. Our wedding band guide covers straight and curved bands, and our bridal sets pair an engagement ring with a band made to fit it.
Getting the size right
Size matters most for a full eternity band, since it cannot be resized. Fingers swell through the day and in warm weather, so measure in the evening, and if you are between two sizes, choose the larger one. Our ring size guide shows how to measure at home, and our guide to finding a ring size in secret helps when the band is a surprise. If the fit is off, size exchanges are free on all rings within 60 days of delivery, as long as the ring is unworn.
Which should you choose?
- A full eternity band, if you want sparkle from every angle and will wear it on its own or as a statement.
- A half eternity band, for everyday comfort, for wearing next to an engagement ring, or for the same stones at a lower price.
Common questions
What is the difference between a full and a half eternity band?
A full eternity band has stones all the way around the finger. A half eternity band has stones across the top and smooth metal underneath.
Can a full eternity band be resized?
No. With stones all the way around, there is no plain metal to cut and rejoin, so the size you order is the size you keep. Measure in the evening, and choose the larger size if you are between two.
Which eternity band goes best with an engagement ring?
A half eternity band. Both rings show their stones on top, and their plain undersides sit comfortably together.
Is a full eternity band comfortable?
Some people never notice the stones on the underside; others feel them when they grip a bag handle or hold hands. A half eternity band keeps the palm side smooth.
Every Carissie band is set with moissanite in sterling silver with 18K gold plating. Shop eternity bands.
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