Baubles are more than just beautiful pieces of jewelry worn on your finger—and many serve the purpose of telling a unique story.
Updated on November 12, 2025 09:59PM
Photo by Rémi Dupac
Key Takeaways
Explore a variety of rings, from mood rings to wedding bands, each with its own unique story and meaning.
Consider how different rings can commemorate life's milestones or symbolize connections, like using birthstones for a mother's ring.
Find a ring that fits your style and beliefs, whether it's a vintage piece or a modern right-hand ring.
When you hear the word "ring," visions of diamonds and glam cocktail baubles probably pop into your head. (The lollipop rings of your youth count, too!) But did you know there are many other types of rings that are popular in the jewelry world today? Between traditional mother's rings, stackable bands, and ‘70s mainstay mood rings, the options are endless when referencing this specific accessory. Here's some more good news: Baubles have the ability to hold special meaning and can serve as a tangible reminder of significant moments in your life.
Just think about a baby ring, for example, which is a bauble given to an infant to be worn throughout the rest of their life (a reminder of a parent's love for their child). Or, the signet ring, which is able to memorialize a special occasion, like a graduation, or serve as an heirloom piece passed down through generations. Ultimately, baubles are more than just accessories worn on your finger, and knowing the different types of rings available can help you find a piece that's both memorable and beautiful.
So, to further expand your ring repertoire, we put together a simple guide on the most popular baubles out there. Here's everything you need to know, especially if you're looking to add a new piece to your jewelry collection.
Meet the Expert
Catherine Thies is a third-generation jeweler and co-owner of Filigree Jewelers in Minneapolis, Minnesota.
01 of 16
Engagement Rings
Photo by Rossini Photography
It wouldn’t be a complete list of rings if we didn’t include the ultimate sparkler: the engagement ring! "The history of trading a ring at the ceremony dates back thousands of years. A band of metal was considered a token of blessing, sealing the bond of love," says Catherine Thies, owner of Filigree Jewelers.
These days, anything goes when it comes to engagement rings, from elegant and simple diamond solitaires to bold, attention-grabbing gemstones and men's engagement rings. Thies also adds that brides are now opting for antique and vintage rings, as many "love the sustainability factor of not dipping into new resources and wanting something completely unique that [they] will not see on other people."
02 of 16
Wedding Bands
Photo by Oliver Fly
Whether you go for a classic gold wedding band, a ring studded with sparkles, or something new and trendy like a tantalum band, wedding bands are a symbol of your love and commitment to your spouse. They can also be stacked to create a more modern and trendy appearance, depending on your personal aesthetic.
03 of 16
Mood Rings
Getty Images
Mood rings had a big moment in the '70s, and again in the '90s, and are still around to purchase today. These novelty pieces claim to predict your mood based on their color, but obviously, this has more to do with your body temperature than how you’re feeling. Regardless, they’re a fun piece to have if searching for a throwback look.
04 of 16
Signet Rings
Getty Images
Signet rings were originally worn by men of influence, but have since turned into a fashion statement for all genders. Today, you can customize a signet in so many different ways, with the option to choose between sentimental vintage pieces or more modern designs. Engrave it with your initials, a special symbol, or even a family crest if you have one.
05 of 16
Mother's Rings
Chadchai Krisadapong / Getty Images
A mother's ring is a piece that typically includes the birthstones of each child worn in a cluster style. If that’s not exactly your go-to look, however, you can opt for an updated twist by stacking gemstone bands together or making them more modern with updated cuts and settings.
"All tradition is thrown out the window when it comes to commemorating an anniversary or a birth. We have been able to make some pretty mother’s rings with gemstones that happen to have colors that work well together," explains Thies. "But if the birthstones clash we say don’t force it. Pick something that speaks to you rather than trying to make something that in the end looks hodgepodge and weird."
06 of 16
Birthstone Rings
Photo by Kylee Yee
Did you have a birthstone ring as a child? If you did, you likely know that these pieces were a popular way to broadcast your birth month to the world. "The list of birthstones became standardized in 1912, with notable additions in the 1950s (alexandrite, citrine, pink tourmaline, and zircon), as well as in 2002 with the addition of tanzanite for December," explains Thies.
Today, many people don't actually choose to wear their actual birthstone, but instead opt for gemstones that they find the most aesthetically pleasing. "With multiple birthstone lists to choose from, modern versus traditional, there are a ton of options in choosing the best gemstone for daily wear," adds Thies.
07 of 16
Cocktail Rings
Photo by Melissa Oholendt
Cocktail rings don’t have to be worn exclusively to make a statement—and they're becoming increasingly popular as engagement rings for couples who are looking for something unique and colorful. "Cocktail rings gained popularity in the roaring '20s and never left," says Thies. "The idea that your life was so opulent that you would have multiple rings was a sign of success."
If you’re looking to purchase your first cocktail ring, Thies recommends choosing something that suits your lifestyle in a tone that works with your wardrobe. "If you wear a lot of earth tones, look at gemstones that complement the colors like citrine or tourmaline," she says.
08 of 16
Baby Rings
Getty Images
As the name implies, baby rings are rings for, well, babies. They first became popular in Victorian times and were given as a gift for a new baby. As the child aged, the teeny, tiny ring could be worn on a chain.
09 of 16
Anniversary Rings
Photo by Sydney Noelle Photography
Anniversary rings are often given on a milestone anniversary, like 10 or 20 years, and are typically worn as part of your wedding set. These can be gold, silver, or diamond bands, or separate stone bands worn in a stack.
10 of 16
Claddagh Rings
Getty Images
The Irish Claddagh ring includes three key symbols: a heart for love, two hands to symbolize friendship, and a crown to symbolize loyalty. The Claddagh dates back to the 17th century and is known for the message it sends depending on how you wear it. For example, if you wear it on your right hand with the heart facing you, that means you’re in a relationship. If you wear it on the same hand with the heart facing out, you’re looking for love.
11 of 16
Right-Hand Rings
Getty Images
A right-hand ring is often thought of as a special piece you buy for yourself to celebrate a milestone. Many individuals choose to get ring-hand rings after graduating, getting a promotion, or completing a personal achievement. The best part? The options are endless when it comes to this particular accessory. Whether you’re rocking a bold cocktail ring or a delicate piece on your right hand, you’ve got a plethora of choices to make this style your own.
12 of 16
Turquoise Rings
Getty Images
Most popular in Southwest-inspired jewelry, turquoise rings are a gorgeous and colorful statement. They hold special significance for Native American tribes and artists, who create and wear stunning pieces featuring the stone. These rings also tend to be set in sterling silver, with the stone being unpolished to let its natural beauty and uniqueness shine.
13 of 16
Class Rings
Getty Images
Class rings are often purchased by graduating seniors as a way to commemorate their high school and/or college years. Like right-hand rings, they are often purchased by the individual who wants to wear them on a daily basis.
14 of 16
Promise Rings
Photo by Kurt Boomer
Promise rings are typically given as a "pre-engagement ring" of sorts, meant to signify a commitment to the future. They can come in an array of styles, from simple diamond bands to cluster rings, and are generally worn on the left hand.
15 of 16
Posie Rings
Getty Images
Posie rings (also known as "posy", "poesy", or "posey") were popular in medieval times. They were often given as tokens of affection between lovers, or as a signal of secret love, and featured hidden poems and inscriptions on the inside portion of the ring.
16 of 16
Snake Rings
Getty Images
Snake or serpent rings are pieces that symbolize eternal love. While they have been worn throughout history, the most popular snake ring is the one Prince Albert gave to Queen Victoria, sparking a trend amongst Victorians.
