Wedding Bands: Tradition Or Necessity?

Wedding bands are not necessary, but they are a long-standing tradition. The choice of whether to wear one or not is entirely up to the couple. Some people like the traditional look of wearing both an engagement ring and a wedding band, while others prefer the simplicity and comfort of wearing just one ring. There are also alternatives to exchanging wedding bands, such as exchanging other types of jewellery or even plants or books. Ultimately, it's about what feels right for the couple.

Cost of wedding bands

Wedding bands are a "tradition" but not a necessity. It is a personal choice whether or not to buy wedding bands in addition to an engagement ring. Some brides dislike the idea of having so much "hardware" on their hands, and that is perfectly fine.

The cost of wedding bands varies depending on trends, the market, location, and the type of metal, gemstone inclusions, and overall design. The three most popular types of metal for wedding rings are yellow gold, white gold, and platinum, with rose gold and sterling silver being more budget-friendly options. Platinum is the most expensive metal to work with, as it is more durable and pure, requiring more labour to manipulate. Gemstones are another factor that influences cost, with natural diamonds being the most common and expensive choice, followed by lab-grown diamonds and coloured gemstones. The design of the band, such as a custom design or pavé diamonds, can also increase the price.

On average, wedding bands can range from $700 to $1200, with some couples spending less than $100 and others splurging over $1000. It is recommended to budget around $1000 for a band. Couples can also opt for silicone rings, which are a more flexible and cost-effective option. Ultimately, the cost of a wedding band depends on individual preferences and budgets.

Environmental impact of production

The production of wedding bands has a significant environmental impact. Mining precious metals and gemstones for wedding bands is a highly polluting business that destroys thousands of acres of habitat and exploits workers, including children. The process also pumps enormous amounts of pollutants into the air, soil, and water.

However, there are ways to reduce the environmental impact of wedding band production. Some companies create wedding bands from recycled materials, such as reclaimed metals and lab-grown diamonds. These practices help to reduce the need for mining and its associated environmental and social impacts. Additionally, some companies are certified carbon-neutral, offsetting their carbon emissions and using renewable hydropower.

• Kinn Studio: Uses recycled 14k solid gold and ethical gemstones, and offers a recycling program for old gold pieces.
• RING BEAR: A carbon-neutral company that upcycles existing metals to create affordable wedding bands.
• Mejuri: Uses recycled gold and responsibly sourced titanium or sterling silver, with a goal of becoming carbon-neutral by 2030.
• Clean Origin: Utilizes recycled metals and lab-grown diamonds to create ethical wedding bands.
• Catbird: Crafts wedding bands with over 95% recycled gold and conflict-free, recycled, or lab-grown diamonds.
• Nyrelle: Creates eco-friendly wedding bands with traceable, conflict-free stones and 100% recycled gold.
• Holden: Crafts wedding bands from recycled metals and lab-grown diamonds, and is Climate Neutral Certified.
• VRAI: Partners with Diamond Foundry to create lab-grown diamonds with renewable hydropower, reducing environmental impact.
• Bario Neal: Offers recycled or fair-trade gold wedding bands with traceable, lab-grown diamonds and ethically sourced gemstones.
• Melissa Joy Manning: Creates wedding bands with 100% recycled gold, silver, diamonds, and precious stones.

Tradition vs personal preference

Wedding bands have been a tradition for thousands of years, dating back to the ancient Egyptians and Greeks. They are a symbol of lifelong partnership and commitment between married couples. The unbroken circle of the ring signifies unity, with neither a beginning nor an end.

However, in modern times, the need for wedding bands is increasingly being questioned. Many people are choosing to forego the tradition of wedding bands for various reasons. One of the main reasons is the cost, as wedding bands can be expensive, especially when added to the cost of an engagement ring. Some people also prefer not to wear a lot of jewellery, and the weight of multiple rings can be uncomfortable. There are also ethical and environmental concerns associated with the mining of precious metals and stones used in wedding bands.

Ultimately, the decision to wear a wedding band is a personal one. Some people may choose to wear both an engagement and a wedding ring, while others may opt for just one ring to symbolise their commitment. There is also the option to exchange something other than rings, such as bracelets, watches, necklaces, or even a potted plant or a book.

While tradition may dictate that wedding bands are necessary, personal preference should always come first. Couples should feel free to choose what they want to do, without feeling pressured by societal expectations or advertising from the wedding industry.

Matching vs mismatched bands

Matching wedding bands have been a long-standing tradition for married couples. In ancient times, wedding rings were made from plant stems, hemp, reed, leather, ivory, or iron, and were exchanged to symbolise eternal love. The tradition has evolved over time, with the first documented use of matching sets of rings occurring in the 1300s during the Renaissance period. These rings were designed to fit together like puzzle pieces, symbolising a couple's union.

Today, there is no requirement for wedding bands to match. Couples may opt for mismatched bands to express their individual personalities and styles. Mismatched bands also allow couples to choose rings that complement their skin tone and fit their fingers perfectly. Additionally, with the rising popularity of engagement rings for men and the trend of couples splitting the cost of rings, it can be difficult for partners to agree on a single colour and fabric.

There are several factors to consider when deciding between matching and mismatched wedding bands. Matching bands can symbolise unity and commitment, while also being a more affordable and simpler option. On the other hand, mismatched bands allow for expression of personal style and can represent distinct personalities and values.

Ultimately, the decision to have matching or mismatched wedding bands is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong choice. The most important thing is that each partner loves the ring they have chosen and feels a strong emotional connection to it.

Alternatives to exchanging bands

Wedding bands are a "tradition" but are not necessary. If you and your partner don't want to exchange rings, there are plenty of alternatives to choose from. Here are some ideas:

• Tattoos: You could get a tattoo on your ring finger or opt for a tattoo bracelet. You could also get a tattoo of your partner's name, your wedding date, or a phrase from your vows.
• Necklaces: Necklaces are a timeless choice and can be personalised with a meaningful pendant or a circle holder.
• Bracelets: Treat your partner to a stunning bracelet, perhaps with a special message engraved on it.
• Anklets: Anklets come in a wide range of materials such as copper, silver, gold, and leather and in a myriad of styles.
• Watches: Exchange matching watches instead of rings. This is a useful and classic piece with heirloom potential that can be easily customised or engraved.
• Earrings: Earrings can last a lifetime and symbolize the intimate bond you share with your spouse.
• Vow booklets: Exchange pocket-sized vow booklets that you can carry around and read whenever you're on the go.
• Engraved wallet cards: These are roughly the size of a debit/credit card and are usually made from metal. You can include a photo and a special message.
• Gemstones or crystals: Exchange gemstones or crystals that represent your partner's characteristics or your spiritual connection.
• Trees: Choose and plant a tree together, perhaps a fruit-bearing tree, and pick the fruit together to prepare together.
• Photo albums: Create photo albums for each other, adding more photos as your relationship blossoms.
• Mugs: For coffee lovers, a simple set of his-and-hers mugs can be a fun alternative to rings.

Remember, it's your wedding, and you should do what you want!

Frequently asked questions