From the nosy questions to the hassle of hand washing, I got a sneak peek at what wearing an engagement ring is really like. Here's what it taught me.
Nasha Smith
I love weddings. In fact, I already have mine planned — actually two. And although I'm not getting married anytime soon, I was excited for the opportunity to get a sneak peek at what wearing an engagement ring might be like.
But when I flaunted a fake diamond for a week, the results were seriously surprising.
This article was originally published in February 2019.
Nasha Smith
I randomly received a faux engagement ring as a party favor once — a round solitaire that looked realistic enough — so I figured it would be the perfect prop for my assignment.
As luck would have it, I happened to be on a trip to Ireland when I carried out my experiment.
Thankfully, that saved my single self from having to awkwardly explain to friends and colleagues how I managed to get engaged overnight, or worse yet, having to create an elaborate backstory.
I did, however, have to come clean to my travel buddy who was both amused and overly excited.
Nasha Smith
From the minute I put the ring on that first day, I could not stop glancing at my left hand.
I kept checking to make sure the ring was properly positioned, took it off when I washed my hands, and was careful not to get it caught on anything that might damage it.
Believe it or not, there are guidelines to properly displaying your ring in public.
When showing off your rock, it's impolite to simply thrust it toward someone — instead, you should hold your left hand with your right palm facing your chest, so the person can get a good view or reach for your hand if they wish.
And if you want to subtly draw attention to the ring, you need to keep your fingers on display. I found myself using my left hand more than usual and making exaggerated motions excessively throughout the week.
Nasha Smith
To be fair, I am generally always like this. Ever since a doctor encouraged me to get a manicure years ago to help me to stop biting them, I have been pretty fastidious about keeping my nails in pristine condition.
But this week, I was doing the absolute most because of the ring. I chose a glossy earth tone as an ode to Ireland and kept cuticle oil on hand for maximum shine.
The moment of truth finally came when a waitress commented on how gorgeous my ring was and asked about the "lucky guy."
Blushing furiously, I opened my mouth to say … nothing. I had avoided thinking about my fake fiancé too much, deciding to just go with whatever description came to mind when put on the spot. But it dawned on me that I had no clue what type of man I even wanted to marry.
Sure, he should be kind, loyal, trustworthy, and attractive, but these were pretty generic traits. I needed to learn what parts of a person spoke to my soul, and at that moment, my mind went blank.
As the week went on, I finally got over the novelty of the attention and started forgetting about the ring.
At first, I took the accessory off for pictures to avoid having to explain to family and friends why I was wearing an engagement ring, but I was well into yet another photo session at a tourist attraction before I remembered the rock on my finger.
I guess the excitement of wearing an engagement ring does wear off after a while — I just didn't expect it to happen so soon.
Nasha Smith
When I took on this assignment, I thought it would be a fun change of pace or even a good story to tell, but I got more than I bargained for.
For one, I will certainly think twice before joking about newly engaged people who seem to go out of their way to make their ring pop. I am by no means flashy, but even I couldn't help but keep my rock on display — and it was fake.
Also, I realized I probably need to put myself out there a bit more. It's OK to not know what I like, but I will never find out if I don't try a few options. And as much as I've thought of an amazing future wedding, I'm not emotionally ready for it yet.
But I do at least know a round solitaire looks brilliant on my finger.
