Wedding Bands: How Many?

Wedding bands are a symbol of love and commitment, and couples spend a significant amount on them. On average, couples in the US spend around $1,900 on wedding bands, with $1,417 spent on the bride's band and $558 on the groom's. This amounts to about 6% of the total wedding budget. The cost of wedding bands varies based on factors like metal type, carat weight, diamond quality, and design complexity. Platinum and gold bands are more expensive than tungsten or silicone, and adding diamonds increases the cost. Couples should consider their budget, lifestyle, and preferences when choosing wedding bands.

Average cost of wedding bands

The cost of wedding bands varies depending on several factors, including the type of metal, the presence of diamonds, the retailer, and the width of the band. On average, couples in the United States spend around $1,900 on wedding bands, with $1,417 spent on the bride's band and $558 on the groom's band. This amount represents about 6% of the total wedding budget.

The type of metal used for the wedding band significantly impacts the cost. For example, a plain white gold band is less expensive than the same band in platinum. Additionally, the carat weight of diamonds, if included in the band, will also affect the price. The more diamonds and the higher the carat weight, the higher the cost.

The retailer you choose can also affect the price. Some well-known jewelry stores may have higher prices, and famous jewelry retailers tend to be more expensive. It is essential to compare prices and find a retailer that offers the best quality within your budget.

The width of the wedding band is another factor to consider. The wider the band, the more metal is required, resulting in a higher cost.

While the national average is a helpful starting point, it is worth noting that prices can vary widely depending on your specific choices and preferences. It is recommended to try on wedding bands soon after getting engaged to get an idea of the styles you prefer and their associated costs.

Ultimately, the decision on how much to spend on wedding bands depends on your budget and priorities. Wedding bands are one of the few things from your wedding that will last a lifetime, so it is essential to find a balance between staying within your budget and choosing a ring that you love.

Cost factors

There are several factors that determine the cost of a wedding band. Couples in the US spend an average of $1,975 on both wedding bands, with the bride's band averaging $1,417 and the groom's band averaging $558. However, the cost of wedding bands can range from $400 to $12,000.

The first deciding factor is the metal you choose. For example, a plain white gold band will be less expensive than a platinum band. The type of metal also determines whether the ring can be resized or repaired. For instance, tungsten wedding bands cannot be resized or repaired, so if your finger size changes, you will need to purchase a new ring. The width of the band also affects the cost, as wider bands require more metal.

Adding diamonds to the band will also increase the cost. The price will depend on the number of diamonds, their carat weight, and their quality. Most brides today want diamonds in their wedding bands. You can choose between a 5-stone band or an eternity (or infinity) band that features diamonds all the way around.

If you want your wedding band to match your engagement ring, you may have limited options, and the price may be higher. Custom-designing a ring to match your unique engagement ring will also increase the cost.

Personalization options such as engraving can add to the cost of the band. Some jewellers offer free machine engraving, while others may charge extra for hand engraving.

When budgeting for a wedding band, it is important to consider your priorities and the features that are most important to you. This will help you find the perfect ring within your price range.

Diamond wedding bands

When it comes to the cost of diamond wedding bands, the price can vary depending on several factors. The type of metal is one of the main factors affecting the price. For example, a plain white gold band will be less expensive than a platinum band or a band with diamond embellishments. The width of the band also matters, as the larger the width, the more metal is needed, resulting in a higher cost.

Adding diamonds to the wedding band will also increase the price. The number of diamonds, their carat weight, and their quality will all impact the overall cost of the ring. For instance, a 5-stone diamond band will be less expensive than an eternity band with diamonds all around. Couples can also opt for diamond wedding bands that match their engagement rings, which may require custom design and increase the cost.

The average spending on wedding bands in the United States is around $1,900, with $1,417 spent on the bride's band and $558 on the groom's band, on average. However, the cost of diamond wedding bands can vary widely, and couples can find options that fit their budget. Some retailers offer diamond wedding bands starting at $248 for women's rings and $78 for alternative men's bands.

Metal type

Gold

Gold, especially yellow gold, is the most traditional and popular choice for wedding bands. It is available in different karatages, with 18K having a richer colour due to its higher gold content, and 10K being the most durable. While 24K gold is too soft for everyday wear, 14K and 18K gold are suitable options. White gold and rose gold are also popular variations. White gold is created by combining gold with alloys like nickel, silver, or palladium and plating it with rhodium. Rose gold is made using a copper alloy, resulting in a pinkish hue.

Platinum

Platinum is a rare and luxurious metal that is also one of the strongest. It is durable, hypoallergenic, and retains its colour. Platinum bands are long-lasting and rarely need replacing. While it is more expensive than gold, its longevity makes it a worthwhile investment.

Palladium

Palladium is a member of the platinum family and shares similar characteristics. It is durable, hypoallergenic, and won't tarnish. Palladium is slightly darker and less expensive than platinum. However, it may be challenging to find due to its limited availability.

Titanium

Titanium is an excellent choice for those seeking a lightweight and durable metal. It is scratch-resistant and easy to maintain. Titanium is commonly used for men's rings, especially those with an active lifestyle or who work with their hands. However, titanium rings cannot be easily resized.

Tungsten Carbide

Tungsten carbide is a very durable metal, known for its scratch and wear resistance. It is a suitable option for those with an active lifestyle. Like titanium, tungsten carbide rings cannot be easily resized. Additionally, it is a brittle metal and can fracture if dropped or knocked against a hard surface.

Other Metals

Other metals used for wedding bands include tantalum, cobalt or cobalt chrome, and sterling silver. Tantalum is a durable and hypoallergenic metal that can be resized. Cobalt chrome combines the light colour of platinum with the durability of tungsten or titanium. Sterling silver is an affordable alternative, but it requires more upkeep as it is a softer metal that can scratch easily.

Width of the band

The width of a wedding band is an important consideration when choosing the perfect ring. Wedding ring width refers to the millimetre (mm) size from one edge of the band to the other and can vary from 1mm to 11mm or greater. The most popular widths for women's wedding bands range from 2mm to 3mm, while for men, the most popular widths are 5mm, 6mm, and 7mm.

When selecting a wedding band width, it's essential to consider the wearer's finger size and personal style. Narrower bands, such as those measuring 2mm to 3mm, tend to be preferred by brides, as they create a delicate and discreet look. These narrower widths are also popular choices for stacking multiple rings or pairing with an engagement ring. On the other hand, grooms often opt for thicker bands, with 4mm being the minimum recommended width for men to achieve a proportioned look.

The average width for a men's wedding band is generally considered to be 6mm, which is suitable for most grooms. This width makes a nice visual statement without being too flashy and tends to look good on hands of all sizes. For men with larger hands, wider bands such as 7mm or 8mm can be a good choice, as they provide a more prominent and impactful look.

For women, the average wedding band width is 2mm, but some may prefer a slightly wider band of 2.5mm, which is the typical width of most engagement ring bands. This creates a consistent and paired appearance when the wedding band is worn alongside the engagement ring. It's worth noting that wedding bands under 2mm may be weaker and less durable than wider bands, so it's generally recommended to choose a band of 2mm or thicker.

Ultimately, the choice of wedding band width depends on personal preference and what looks and feels best on your finger. There are no hard and fast rules, and it's important to consider factors such as the desired appearance, comfort, and the weight of the band.

Frequently asked questions