Wooden Wedding Bands For Men: A Natural Choice?

Wedding bands made from wood are an increasingly popular choice for men. They are a unique and affordable option, offering a rustic elegance and natural beauty. Wood is a versatile material that has been used to craft products since the beginning of time. Combining wood with other materials such as titanium, tungsten, or ceramic can enhance the strength and durability of the ring. Wood wedding bands are also lightweight and hypoallergenic, making them a comfortable choice for everyday wear. The natural wood grain gives each ring a one-of-a-kind pattern and artistic identity.

Wood rings' durability

Wooden rings are beautiful and unique, but wood is a tricky material, especially for everyday wear. They may not be as durable as traditional metal rings, but they can certainly last a lifetime—or a few—if looked after properly.

The durability of a wooden ring depends on the type of wood used, the craftsmanship, and the finish. The toughest and most durable wooden wedding rings are made using bentwood, which involves wrapping multiple thin layers of wood around each other, with the wood grain running in the same direction. This process creates a ring that is incredibly strong and flexible. The types of wood known to stand the test of time include old-growth heartwoods and hardwoods.

The finish applied to a wooden ring can also affect its durability. Finishes can range from beeswax to epoxy, with some jewellers using medical-grade cyanoacrylate glue to give the rings a strong finish with a beautiful sheen. A resin or epoxy finish can also make the wood appear more natural, as it is clear and glass-like. However, no matter how hard the epoxy finish, it can still be damaged by impact or abrasion. Therefore, it is recommended to remove wooden rings before any strenuous or high-impact activities, such as rock climbing, weight lifting, or working with heavy machinery.

Wooden rings should also be kept away from water and moisture as much as possible, as this can compromise the finish and make the wood vulnerable to warping and other damage. While some wooden rings are water-resistant, allowing them to come into contact with water frequently can cause issues over time. It is also important to avoid exposure to certain chemicals, as these can break down the finish on the ring.

Overall, wooden rings require some special care to maintain their durability. They should be kept safe, not exposed to harsh conditions, and regularly cleaned with a soft, dry microfiber cloth. With proper care, a wooden ring can be a beautiful and unique choice for a wedding band that is sure to last a lifetime.

Wood rings' care

Wood rings are beautiful, natural, and rustic, but they do require some special care. Here are some tips to keep your wood ring in good condition:

Water and Moisture

While some wood rings are waterproof and can handle occasional exposure to water, it's best to avoid wearing them in water as much as possible. Take off your ring when washing dishes, doing water sports, or any other activity that involves prolonged contact with water. Moisture, including sweat, can cause the natural wood to swell, so it's important to avoid standing moisture in any crevices.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Regularly clean your ring to avoid dirt build-up. You can use warm water and a mild detergent with a soft-bristle toothbrush to clean the grooves. Avoid harsh chemicals and detergents as they may damage the wood. You can also apply wax or oil to the wood to rejuvenate it and protect its shine. A butcher block conditioner, which is a suspension of hard and soft waxes in mineral oil, can be effective in maintaining the beauty of the finish.

Scratches and Impact

Wood rings are sensitive to scratches and impacts. Avoid contact with rough surfaces and objects to prevent scratches. When undertaking high-impact activities, remove your ring to avoid losing it. Avoid dropping your ring, especially on hard surfaces, as it may not withstand the fall.

Storage and Safety

Always store your ring in a safe location when you're not wearing it. Keep it away from direct light and hot or humid environments. If you work in an industry that requires regular contact with strong solvents, such as the medical field, it's best to remove your ring before engaging in these activities, as wood finishes cannot withstand constant exposure to solvents.

Resizing and Repairs

Wood rings cannot be effectively resized, so ensure you know your correct ring size before ordering. If your ring has a warranty, contact the manufacturer or jeweler immediately if you notice any damage to the finish or any other issues.

Types of wood used for rings

Woodworkers and jewellers havesection title: experimented with a variety of wood species to create wooden rings. While some types of wood are more commonly used, such as walnut, maple, and mahogany, there is a vast array of options available to craft unique and beautiful rings.

Aromatic Cedar

Also known as Tennessee Cedar, this type of wood has amber, pink, and brownish/pink tones. Aromatic Cedar is not only pleasing to work with due to its lovely scent, but it also offers a great look for wooden rings. The wood cuts and sands easily and pairs well with other types of wood in lamination.

Bocote

This dense wood features yellow, black, straw, and brown streaks, creating a unique and interesting appearance. While Bocote requires a bit more effort to file and shape, the finish that can be achieved is well worth it.

Rosewood

Bolivian Rosewood, with its brownish hues and streaks of lighter colours, is a beautiful choice for wooden rings. It can be used on its own or in combination with other woods, adding warmth and character to the design.

Briar

Briar wood is sourced from the roots of the Heath Tree and is typically used by pipe makers for its heat resistance. While it may appear plain initially, applying a finish to Briar wood transforms it into a stunning material for rings.

Bubinga

Also known as African Rosewood, Bubinga ranges from pink to brown with interesting streaks and grain patterns. This wood can be a bit flaky and prone to chipping, so careful drilling and handling are necessary.

Cherry

Cherry wood is a common choice for wooden rings, offering a light brown colour with hints of pink or red. It is easy to work with, sands smoothly, and takes on a finish beautifully. Over time, Cherry wood tends to darken, enhancing its visual appeal.

Cocobolo

Cocobolo is a Mexican or South American wood with a stunning range of colours, from tan and brown to red and brick hues. As a very oily wood, Cocobolo requires special treatment before gluing, but its amazing colour palette makes it well worth the effort.

East Indian Rosewood

This variety of Rosewood is a favourite among guitar makers, prized for its brown colour with purple tones and light to dark streaks. While it can be more expensive, East Indian Rosewood is a delight to work with and can be sourced in smaller pieces suitable for ring making.

Ebony

Gabon Ebony is renowned for its deep black colour, making it one of the darkest woods available. It polishes exceptionally well, resulting in a stone-like appearance that is truly remarkable.

Granadillo

Granadillo has a similar appearance to Bubinga, with brown and reddish hues. It can be used on its own or in combination with other woods, adding interest and detail to the ring design.

Canary Wood

Canary Wood exhibits subtle hues within its middle-range tones, revealing its beauty upon closer inspection. It is best suited for larger rings or laminations to fully appreciate its intricate details.

Kauri Wood

Kauri Wood is notable for its history, having been buried underground for thousands of years after a tsunami. While its colour is fairly plain, ranging from medium to yellowish, Kauri Wood holds a fascinating story that adds to its appeal.

Koa

Koa wood, native to Hawaii, shares similarities with Mahogany in terms of colour and working style. Its rarity, combined with its attractive brown and tan streaks, makes it a sought-after choice for wooden rings.

Lacewood

Lacewood stands out for its unique grain pattern, resembling lighter-coloured ovals that give it a leopard-like appearance. Proper cutting is essential to showcase the remarkable grain pattern that makes Lacewood so distinctive.

Mahogany

Mahogany is a common wood in fine furniture and guitar making, known for its warm tone. It typically features brown and tan colours with streaks and takes on a finish beautifully, sometimes exhibiting a glimmer when rotated in light.

Maple

Maple is a light-coloured wood with a slight pink tint, often featuring a quilted or wavy grain pattern. Spalted Maple, with its green and black streaks, adds even more interest to this versatile wood.

Marble Wood

Marble Wood captivates with its intricate interplay of colours, typically ranging from tan to brown with hints of pink, amber, red, and brown hues. Its unique grain patterns and colour combinations make it an excellent choice for wooden rings.

Olive Wood

Olive Wood, with its tan colour and dark brown to black streaks, is a pinch more expensive but offers certified pieces sourced from Bethlehem, making it a meaningful choice for Christian customers.

Padauk

Padauk is a bright orange wood that gradually oxidises to deep red and then brown. Its vibrant colour and common availability make it a popular choice for wooden rings, although its dust can stain surrounding areas.

Purple Heart

Purple Heart is one of the most intriguing woods, boasting a naturally purple hue that deepens with exposure to sunlight. While dense and prone to dulling tools, Purple Heart can be worked with carefully to create stunning purple rings.

Spanish Cedar

Spanish Cedar is a favourite among cigar box and humidor makers for its light tan to brown colour and sweet scent. It is also suitable for wooden rings, either on its own or in combination with lighter woods to highlight its tones.

American Walnut

American Walnut, a common wood in North America, contributes a unique grey colour to wooden rings. When paired with lighter woods, it creates a striking black-and-white effect that stands out from traditional ring designs.

Wenge

Wenge is a dark brown to black wood with lighter brown streaks. Its dense and flaky nature makes it a distinctive choice, well-suited for standalone rings or inlaid with other woods to enhance its visual appeal.

Birch

Birch is a versatile wood that can be used in its solid form or as plywood, offering an even colour and a knot-free surface. Its lighter colour makes it ideal for adding contrast to laminations or creating a simple, elegant ring on its own.

Zebra Wood

Zebra Wood derives its name from its distinctive grain pattern, featuring alternating black and white lines that evoke the stripes of a zebra. Its straight and even grain

Metals to pair with wood

Mens' wedding bands made of wood and metal are a stylish and unique choice, combining modern style with classic charm. The metal in these rings provides a sturdy foundation for the wood inlay, adding strength and stability to the ring.

Titanium

Titanium is known for its strength and scratch resistance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a durable wedding band. It is also lightweight, which adds to its comfort. Titanium has a modern and minimalist design aesthetic that appeals to many men. It can be paired with wood to create a unique and personalised design. Titanium wedding bands can be crafted in a variety of finishes, such as matte, brushed, or polished, to suit individual preferences.

Tungsten

Tungsten is a contemporary metal that is incredibly scratch-resistant, with a hardness rating just below that of a diamond. It is also affordable, lustrous, and durable, making it a good choice for everyday wear. Tungsten wedding bands come in a variety of colours, including black and white. However, tungsten is a brittle metal, which means it cannot be engraved or resized.

Gold

Gold is a timeless and classic choice for wedding bands that has been popular for centuries. It is associated with luxury and elegance and has a soft, warm lustre. Gold wedding bands are available in different colours, such as yellow, white, and rose gold. Yellow gold is the most traditional option, while white gold offers a more chic look. Rose gold has gained popularity for its warm and romantic tone. Gold is a relatively soft metal compared to others, so it may require more maintenance and is more prone to scratches and dents over time.

Platinum

Platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands due to its modern look, durability, and hypoallergenic properties. It is low-maintenance and resistant to corrosion, tarnish, and scratches, making it suitable for those with active lifestyles. Platinum wedding bands tend to be heavier compared to other metals like gold. Its plasticity allows for intricate engravings and unique designs, and its natural white colour enhances the brilliance of any gemstones or diamonds in the band.

Carbon Fibre

Carbon fibre is often paired with wood in mens' wedding bands to prolong their lifespan. It adds strength and durability to the ring while maintaining a sleek and stylish look.

History of wood rings

The history of wedding rings is a long and fascinating one, dating back thousands of years. The first wedding rings were made from natural materials such as wood, with the ancient Egyptians exchanging braided reeds and hemp rings as far back as 4000 BC. The circular shape of the ring was seen as a powerful symbol of eternity, with no beginning and no end, reflecting the shape of the sun and the moon, which the Egyptians worshipped. The open space in the middle of the ring was believed to represent a gateway to the unknown, and the ring finger was thought to contain the "vena amoris" or "vein of love" leading directly to the heart.

Over time, the materials used for wedding rings evolved, with the ancient Greeks and Romans adopting the use of leather, bone, ivory, and eventually metal bands. The Romans started the trend of using iron rings, believing that the durable metal represented permanence and strength in the bond between a couple. They also began engraving their metal rings, often with key motifs to symbolize the wife's control over the household goods. By the 2nd century CE, gold had become the most common metal for wedding rings.

During the Byzantine Empire, wedding rings were engraved with figures of the couple, and in the 15th century, "Posie rings" became popular, featuring short verses or poetry inscribed on the inside or outside of the band. In the 16th and 17th centuries, Gimmel rings, consisting of two or three interlocking bands, became fashionable. Each band would be worn by the bride and groom during their engagement, and then joined together during the wedding ceremony to signify their union.

Today, wedding rings are typically made from precious metals such as gold, silver, or platinum, and often feature diamond or gemstone settings. While the materials and styles have evolved over time, the symbolic meaning of the wedding ring remains largely the same, representing a never-ending union of love and commitment between two people.

Frequently asked questions