Diamond Wedding Rings: A Timeless Choice

Wedding rings, also known as wedding bands, are traditionally exchanged at the wedding ceremony and symbolise the official bond of marriage. They are usually simpler in design than engagement rings, which are typically given at the time of proposal. Wedding bands are often plain metal rings, but some people opt for diamond-encrusted eternity bands. Both men and women can choose to wear either simple bands or more elaborate rings adorned with diamonds or precious stones.

Diamond wedding rings are more expensive than plain bands

Wedding rings are a symbol of eternal love and the formalisation of a union. They come in many styles, from plain bands to diamond-encrusted rings. While the plain band is a classic, some people prefer the sparkle of a diamond wedding ring.

The intricate design of diamond wedding rings is another factor in their higher price. These rings often feature elaborate details and craftsmanship, such as cathedral mountings or pave accents. The more intricate the design, the more the ring will cost.

Diamond wedding rings also require more maintenance than plain bands. Smaller diamonds can attract residue build-up underneath, and if not cleaned regularly, stones can loosen and even be lost.

Finally, diamond wedding rings may not be suitable for everyday wear, especially if your job requires you not to wear diamonds or involves rough work with your hands. In contrast, a plain band is more practical and durable for daily use.

Diamonds are supposed to be symbolic of eternal love

Wedding rings can, of course, feature diamonds. But why are diamonds supposed to be symbolic of eternal love?

Diamonds have been synonymous with power and divine forces for centuries. The ancient Greeks believed that Cupid, the god of desire, affection and erotic love, had diamond-tipped arrows that could draw hearts together and inspire romantic love. The fire in diamonds was thought to reflect the constant flame of love. The word diamond comes from the Greek "adamas", meaning "unalterable" or "unbreakable", like true love. Diamonds are also said to represent hardness, strength, and longevity, making them the perfect symbol for a lasting marriage.

The diamond's association with love and marriage can be traced back to the 15th century when the diamond ring became the celebrated symbol of faithfulness, love and commitment in marriage. The first known diamond betrothal ring was presented in 1477 by the Archduke Maximillian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy. This influenced the wealthy and noble to give diamond rings to their loved ones.

In the 19th century, the booming Industrial Revolution meant that diamonds were no longer confined to royalty and the aristocracy. The powerful symbol of love was now more accessible to the wider public. By the 20th century, the cutting, polishing and setting of diamonds had reached its full potential, and the diamond preserved its place as a talisman of eternal love.

Diamond wedding rings are more popular among women than men

In the past, wedding rings were mostly worn by women, although the Christian church promoted the exchanging of wedding rings as a way to keep men faithful. It wasn't until World War II that wedding rings for men became popular, as American and European soldiers wore them to remember their wives and partners back home.

Today, both men and women can choose to wear either simple wedding bands or more elaborate pieces adorned with diamonds or precious stones. However, diamond wedding rings are generally more popular with women, perhaps due to the long history of diamonds being associated with romance and love. Diamonds are also often seen as a symbol of luxury and wealth, with diamond wedding rings typically being more expensive than plain bands.

Additionally, in many Western countries, engagement rings are usually only worn by women and are often adorned with diamonds. The diamond engagement ring became a popular symbol of romance and love in the 20th century, largely due to marketing campaigns by diamond companies. As a result, diamond rings have become strongly associated with love and marriage for women in Western cultures.

Diamond wedding rings are more elaborate than plain bands

Wedding rings with diamonds are indeed more elaborate than plain bands. This is because diamond wedding rings usually have a centre stone and additional smaller stones, whereas a plain band is just a single, smooth piece of metal.

Diamond wedding rings are often chosen to complement an engagement ring, adding a subtle sparkle to the overall look. They can also be a good choice for those who want to incorporate the meaning of an eternity ring into their wedding band. Diamond wedding rings offer more style options than plain bands, including different diamond cuts and settings.

However, it is important to consider that a diamond wedding ring may be too sparkly and overpowering, taking attention away from the engagement ring. Additionally, smaller diamonds can attract residue buildup and may need to be cleaned more regularly to prevent stones from loosening and being lost. Diamond wedding rings are also more expensive than plain bands.

In contrast, a plain wedding band is a very traditional style and is often chosen for its elegant and classic look, especially when paired with a more elaborate engagement ring. Plain bands are also more practical and require less maintenance, making them ideal for those who work with their hands or cannot wear diamonds at work.

Ultimately, the choice between a diamond wedding ring and a plain band is a matter of personal preference and should be based on what the individual and their partner believe and want.

Diamond wedding rings are harder to maintain than plain bands

Wedding rings with diamonds are a popular choice, but they come with their own set of challenges when it comes to maintenance and care. On the other hand, plain wedding bands offer a timeless and elegant alternative that is easier to maintain and can be just as special and meaningful. Here are some reasons why diamond wedding rings are harder to maintain than plain bands:

Ease of Refinishing

Plain wedding bands are typically easier to refinish and keep looking new. Most bench jewellers can refinish a plain band, removing scratches and restoring its shine. This is especially important for white gold rings, which may require re-rhodium plating to maintain their ultra-white colour. While refinishing can be expensive and time-consuming, it is a worthwhile option for plain bands. With diamond wedding rings, however, refinishing can be more complex and may require specialised skills or equipment to avoid damaging the diamonds.

Durability and Practicality

Plain wedding bands are more durable and practical for everyday wear, especially for those with active lifestyles or jobs that require working with their hands. Diamonds can get snagged or damaged, so many professionals in medical or manual labour fields opt for plain bands. Plain bands are less likely to get damaged or scratched, and any scratches that do occur can add character to the ring. Diamond wedding rings, with their delicate stones, may require more careful handling and might not be suitable for certain professions or activities.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Diamond wedding rings, especially those with smaller stones, can attract residue buildup underneath the stones. Regular cleaning is necessary to prevent this buildup from loosening and causing stones to fall out. Plain wedding bands, on the other hand, have a smooth surface that is less likely to trap dirt and are generally easier to keep clean. With fewer concerns about damaging or losing precious stones, plain bands require less maintenance overall.

Cost Considerations

Diamond wedding bands are typically more expensive than plain bands due to the cost of the diamonds. This higher cost may also impact the wearer's peace of mind, as there is added worry about losing or damaging the diamonds. Plain wedding bands offer a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing style or sentiment.

Design Flexibility

While diamond wedding rings offer sparkle and glamour, they may not always complement the wearer's engagement ring or future eternity ring. A plain band, on the other hand, pairs beautifully with other rings and allows the engagement ring to take centre stage. Plain bands also offer more opportunities for customisation, such as engraving, width selection, and metal choices, allowing the wearer to create a unique and meaningful design.

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