Wedding Bands: To Wear Or Not?

Wedding bands are a popular tradition, with the global market for wedding rings valued at $7.3 billion in 2020. But do couples have to have them?

In Western tradition, women have typically worn wedding rings, and men are increasingly doing so, too. Wedding bands are exchanged during the wedding ceremony as a symbol of unity and marriage. They are usually simpler in style than engagement rings, often featuring a thin band of metal.

However, there are no hard and fast rules about what wedding jewellery couples have to have. Some couples opt for mismatched wedding bands, choosing rings that express their individual style while still complementing each other.

Wedding bands don't have to match

The decision to have matching or non-matching wedding bands is entirely up to the couple. Some couples may prefer the idea of having matching bands as a symbol of their togetherness and compatibility. It can also be more convenient and affordable to choose a set of matching wedding rings. On the other hand, having separate rings allows each individual to express their unique personality and style within their union.

There are several factors to consider when deciding whether to match wedding bands or not. Firstly, it's important to think about personal style and comfort. Each partner may have different tastes and preferences, and it's essential that both individuals are happy with the rings they will be wearing every day. Lifestyle and professions should also be taken into account, as some jobs may require more practical and durable ring designs.

Additionally, it's crucial to have open communication and compromise between partners when making this decision. Each person should express their preferences and be open to listening to their partner's perspective. If matching bands are not preferred, there are other ways to symbolize unity and commitment, such as exchanging personalized vows or incorporating meaningful rituals into the wedding celebration.

Ultimately, the choice to match wedding bands or not is a personal one, and there is no right or wrong answer. The most important thing is that the couple feels connected to the rings they choose and that the rings reflect their love and commitment to each other.

Wedding band styles

Wedding bands come in a variety of styles, from simple metal bands to rings adorned with precious stones. The type of wedding band chosen often depends on personal preference and budget. Here is a guide to some of the most popular wedding band styles:

Metal Bands

Classic metal wedding bands are crafted from metals such as platinum, titanium, stainless steel, or gold. Platinum is the most popular choice for its shine and ability to develop a beautiful patina with age. Other popular options include 18K or 14K white, yellow, or rose gold. Yellow gold is a timeless classic, while rose gold has a modern-vintage appeal with its romantic pink hue. White gold is a more affordable alternative to platinum, offering a similar silver-like appearance.

Pavé Bands

Pavé wedding bands are encrusted with diamonds or gemstones, adding sparkle and flair to the ring. These bands can be customised to match the stones of the engagement ring, such as a cushion-cut solitaire ring with a pavé halo setting. Pavé settings expose the stones to more light, enhancing their brilliance.

Eternity Bands

Eternity bands feature diamonds or gemstones around the entire perimeter of the ring. There are various styles within this category, such as shared prong and channel settings. The shared prong style features two stones sitting next to each other, forming a "U" shape from the side, while channel settings create a more encrusted look. Eternity bands can be a statement piece on their own or paired with an engagement ring for added shine.

Anniversary Bands

Anniversary bands are similar to eternity bands but feature gemstones or diamonds that go halfway around the band. These bands are meant to celebrate milestone wedding anniversaries and are designed to create a cohesive look with the engagement ring.

Infinity Bands

Infinity wedding bands incorporate the infinity symbol or the figure-eight shape, symbolising an infinite relationship. These bands can be further embellished with diamonds or gemstones.

Stackable Bands

Some people choose to pair their wedding band with their engagement ring by adding a third band, combining multiple thin bands, or using a ring guard to create a stacked look. Stackable bands allow for creativity and personal expression.

Who buys the wedding bands?

Wedding bands are a key aspect of your wedding day and wedding vows. They are a symbol of never-ending love. But who buys the wedding bands?

Traditionally, each person pays for the other person's ring. So, in a heterosexual wedding, the groom or his family would pay for the bride's ring, and the bride or her family would pay for the groom's ring. However, nowadays, each half of the couple is generally expected to pay for the other person's wedding band. This expectation is more inclusive, as it does not assume that all weddings involve a woman and a man.

There are no hard-and-fast rules, though. Some couples split the cost of their wedding rings, especially if they have already combined their finances pre-wedding or are paying for their wedding together. This doesn't mean that they have to contribute an equal amount, though; the cost could be divided proportionally according to individual incomes, for example.

Some couples gift each other their wedding bands, or one person might buy both rings if they bought the engagement ring, for instance. If the couple is paying for most of the wedding, they will have more freedom in terms of ring selection.

It's important to have open communication about expectations, likes, and dislikes, as a wedding is often the first big financial expenditure a couple will take on together. It's also important to choose something that you both like and that fits your lifestyle.

Wedding band vs. ring

There are three types of rings exchanged during the course of an engagement and wedding: the engagement ring, the wedding ring, and the wedding band. While the differences between these three types of rings have become less distinct over time, there are still some characteristics that differentiate them.

Engagement Ring

The engagement ring is typically given during the proposal as a symbol that the receiver is now engaged to be married. Traditionally, only the woman would receive and wear an engagement ring, but in same-sex relationships, it is common for both partners to wear one. Engagement rings are usually the most elaborate and ornate of the three types of rings, often featuring a large central stone, most commonly a diamond, surrounded by smaller diamonds or other gemstones. However, this tradition is becoming less common, with younger couples opting for different styles that feature alternative central stones such as opals, sapphires, and rubies. The engagement ring is usually more expensive than the wedding ring or band due to its more intricate design.

Wedding Ring

The wedding ring is exchanged during the wedding ceremony and is designed to complement the engagement ring. It is typically less extravagant and elaborate than the engagement ring, often featuring fewer or smaller diamonds or gemstones. While it is less expensive than the engagement ring, the wedding ring is still commonly made with a diamond band. The wedding ring can be worn alone or stacked with the engagement ring, with the wedding ring traditionally placed closest to the heart.

Wedding Band

The wedding band tends to be the simplest in design, often featuring a plain band of gold, silver, or other metals. It is usually less expensive than the wedding ring and significantly less expensive than the engagement ring. The wedding band is also exchanged during the wedding ceremony and can be worn alone or stacked with the engagement ring and wedding ring.

While there are these general differences between the three types of rings, the terms "wedding band" and "wedding ring" are often used interchangeably, and the style chosen ultimately comes down to personal preference.

Do you need a wedding band?

Wedding bands are steeped in tradition, but that doesn't mean you need to have one. The decision to get a wedding band is entirely up to you and your partner. Here are some points to consider when making your decision:

The "Need" for a Wedding Band is Arbitrary

The decision to get a wedding band is a personal choice and there are no hard and fast rules. Some couples choose to follow the tradition of exchanging wedding bands during the wedding ceremony as a symbol of their union. Others may opt to use their engagement ring as their wedding ring or forgo rings altogether. Ultimately, it's about what feels right for you and your partner.

Cost Considerations

Wedding bands can be costly, especially when added to the expense of an engagement ring. If you're working with a tight budget, you may choose to skip the wedding band or opt for a less expensive option, such as a silicone ring. Alternatively, you could consider purchasing a set of inexpensive bands for the ceremony, with the intention of replacing them with higher-quality bands in the future.

Practicality and Lifestyle

Some people may find wearing multiple rings uncomfortable or impractical for their lifestyle. If you work with your hands, play sports, or travel frequently, you may prefer to wear just one ring to reduce the risk of damage or loss. Others may prefer the simplicity of a single ring that aligns with their personal style.

Environmental Concerns

The production of precious metals and gemstones for wedding bands and engagement rings raises ethical and environmental concerns. Mining for these materials can have hazardous consequences for workers and the environment. If you have concerns about the environmental impact of your jewellery, you may opt to recycle your own jewellery, alter family heirlooms, or purchase from eco-friendly companies that use recycled materials.

Alternatives to Wedding Bands

If you decide not to exchange wedding bands, there are alternative options to consider. You could exchange other types of jewellery, such as bracelets, watches, or necklaces. For eco-conscious couples, exchanging a small potted plant, flowers, or a favourite book can be a meaningful symbol of your love. Ultimately, it's about finding a symbol that holds meaning for you and your partner.

Frequently asked questions