Working out an estimate for a full eternity ring is a skilled and difficult task, so even quoting for one is costly. Half eternity rings can be fairly easily sized, making them a more economic stock line for retail jewellers. Full eternity rings can be uncomfortable to wear because of the depth of the shank between the fingers. This limits the size of stones which can be used. In the British market, claw settings have been more fashionable than other, more attractive and practical setting styles.
Opinions vary widely as to an appropriate time for the giving and receiving of an eternity ring.
De Beers and the Diamond Promotion Service would have you all believe that the first wedding anniversary is the right time. Others believe that the birth of the first child is an appropriate time, and if most men could empathise with their wives over the pain of childbirth, I am sure they would gladly prefer to buy an eternity ring, than to go through the alternative. We believe it is for the individual couple to decide upon an appropriate time for an eternity ring. We hear much good-natured banter between couples discussing the fact that a year together seems like an eternity, or that the wife has head to wait an eternity, or some variation on this theme. Most eternities symbolise the continuation of the man's love for his wife.