Do Men Wear Engagement Rings in Australia? A Look at Evolving Traditions

Do Men Wear Engagement Rings in Australia? A Look at Evolving Traditions

Traditionally, engagement rings were mostly associated with women. But times have changed — and so have the symbols of commitment. In Australia, more men are choosing to wear engagement rings as a sign of love, equality, and personal expression. It’s a trend that reflects how relationships are becoming more balanced and inclusive — and at Diamond Lab, we’re seeing growing interest in engagement rings for men of all styles and identities.

This article explores the shift in tradition, cultural attitudes, modern ring designs for men, and how couples can navigate this evolving landscape together.

The Origin of the Engagement Ring Tradition

The engagement ring tradition dates back thousands of years — from ancient Egypt to Roman betrothals. But the practice of gifting a diamond ring specifically gained traction in the late 1800s and early 1900s, spurred by diamond discoveries and clever marketing.

For most of modern history, however, engagement rings were primarily worn by women. Men's wedding bands became common only around World War II.

So... Do Men Wear Engagement Rings in Australia?

The short answer? Yes — increasingly so.

In 2025, Australian couples are embracing modern expressions of commitment. From LGBTQ+ relationships to gender-equal partnerships, men are proudly wearing engagement rings as a shared symbol of love. Some key reasons men choose to wear them include:

• Equality in relationships – A shared symbol of mutual commitment.

• Visible engagement – A way for men to signal they’re "taken," just like women.

• Personal style – Modern men's rings come in many sophisticated designs.

• Cultural influence – Celebrities and social media have normalised male engagement rings.

At Diamond Lab, we see both same-sex and heterosexual couples choosing to exchange rings during their proposal or pre-wedding phase.

Engagement vs. Wedding Ring – What's the Difference for Men?

Traditionally:

• Engagement Ring: Given at the time of proposal.

• Wedding Ring: Exchanged during the ceremony.

For men who choose to wear both, the engagement ring is often simpler and might later be paired with or replaced by a wedding band. Some choose a ring stack, while others opt to upgrade their engagement ring into a wedding ring.

💡 Tip: Choose complementary metals or finishes if you plan to wear both long-term.

What Styles Do Men Choose for Engagement Rings?

Men's engagement rings differ from traditional women's rings. They tend to favour sleek lines, durable materials, and low-profile finishes.

Popular men’s engagement ring styles include:

• Classic bands in platinum, 14k/18k gold, or two-tone metal.

• Brushed or matte finishes to hide wear and suit active lifestyles.

• Bezel-set or flush-set stones, such as lab-grown diamonds or black diamonds.

• Custom designs with engravings, meaningful motifs, or partner initials.

Explore our Men’s Rings Collection for timeless yet modern designs.

Is It Common to Propose to a Man with a Ring?

Absolutely. More women and nonbinary partners are proposing — and they’re doing it with style. Some choose a bold ring, others a simple band — but all share the same message: "I want to spend my life with you."

Even better? Many couples now opt for a dual ring exchange, where both partners receive engagement rings at the same moment.

Should You Custom Design a Men's Engagement Ring?

Yes — especially if you’re looking for something meaningful or unique. At Diamond Lab, you can customise:

• Metal type: White gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum.

• Finish: Polished, brushed, hammered, or textured.

• Stone: Lab-grown diamond, moissanite, or none at all.

• Width and weight: From slim 2mm bands to bold 6mm+ designs.

Our custom ring design process makes it easy to create a bespoke ring that reflects his personality and your story.

FAQs: Male Engagement Rings in Australia

Q: Is it weird for a man to wear an engagement ring?
A: Not at all. It’s becoming more common in Australia and reflects evolving values around equality and mutual commitment.

Q: What finger does a man wear his engagement ring on?
A: Typically the left ring finger — but there are no strict rules. Some wear it on the right hand until the wedding.

Q: Can a man wear an engagement ring and wedding band together?
A: Yes, many men do. Just ensure the styles pair well — or consider a stackable or fusion design.

Q: Should a male engagement ring have a diamond?
A: It’s up to the wearer. Many men choose subtle sparkle with flush-set lab diamonds or moissanite.

Q: Can I design a ring and surprise him?
A: Absolutely! Our design team can help you create a thoughtful, masculine ring — or offer a virtual consultation if you prefer to design together.

Final Word: It’s Your Story, Your Ring

Whether you're choosing a traditional proposal or forging your own path, engagement rings for men are a powerful and personal gesture. It’s not about following rules — it’s about expressing love in a way that feels right for both of you.

At Diamond Lab, we’re here to support all love stories. If you're ready to find or create a men's engagement ring that’s as unique as your relationship, book a consultation or visit our showroom to explore your options.

Let’s make your moment unforgettable.