Groom's Guide: Wedding Band Wearing

Wedding bands for men have evolved over time, and today, there are numerous styles, metals, and designs to choose from. The tradition of men wearing wedding bands has gained popularity only in recent times, and it is now widely accepted in many cultures. The choice of which hand to wear the wedding band varies across the world, with some cultures opting for the right hand and others the left. Ultimately, the decision is influenced by cultural beliefs, ethnic traditions, and personal preference.

In western cultures, the left hand is associated with love, heart, and affection, hence the tradition of wearing the wedding band on the left hand. On the other hand, eastern civilisations associate the right hand with trust, virtue, and honour, making it the preferred choice for male wedding bands in Eastern Europe and Asia.

Wedding band history

The wedding band has a long and varied history, with its story changing alongside the evolution of marriage over time. The first known instances of exchanging "rings of love" date back to ancient Egypt, almost 5000 years ago, where they were often made from woven reeds, leather, or braided plant materials. The circular shape of the ring was seen as a powerful symbol of eternal life and love, with the open space in the middle representing a gateway to the unknown. The tradition of exchanging rings was then adopted by the Greeks, who gave rings to their lovers to represent devotion, often depicting Eros or Cupid, the god of love.

The Romans are believed to have linked the ring to marriage, using iron and copper rings in their marriage ceremonies. By the 2nd century CE, most rings were gold, and by the 3rd and 4th centuries CE, gold rings had become more luxurious, displaying the giver's wealth. The Romans also adopted the belief that the ring finger contained the "vena amoris" or "vein of love", which ran directly to the heart, and this tradition continues to this day.

During the Middle Ages, under the Byzantine Empire, wedding rings were often carved with the faces or full figures of the betrothed couple. With the adoption of Christianity, the couple was often depicted with Jesus or a cross between them, blessing their marriage. The fede ring, which showed two clasped hands, was popular during this time and lasted for over a thousand years, resurfacing in different styles throughout history.

In the 15th and 16th centuries, the gimmel ring, consisting of two or three interlocking bands, became popular. Each band was worn by the bride and groom during the engagement period, and during the wedding ceremony, the groom would place his band on the bride's finger, uniting the rings into a matched set.

In the 15th century, diamond rings began to be used as a token of intent from the father of the bride to the father of the groom. The first documented instance of a diamond betrothal ring was in 1475 at the wedding of Costanzo Sforza and Camilla D'Aragona in Italy.

The tradition of men wearing wedding bands is a more modern invention, gaining momentum in the mid-20th century, particularly after World War II. Soldiers wore rings as reminders of their wives and the commitment waiting for them back home, and this gesture soon extended beyond the military. Today, men's wedding bands are a symbol of equality in marriage, showcasing mutual love and respect between the couple.

Symbolism and significance

The wedding band has evolved over the years, with men joining the tradition in the mid-20th century. World War II played a significant role in popularising men's wedding bands, with soldiers wearing rings as reminders of their wives and their commitment back home. Today, the wedding band serves as a powerful symbol of love, commitment, and equality in marriage for men.

The wedding band is a visible declaration of a man's commitment to his spouse. It is a public display of his devotion and a reminder of the vows he has made. The ring serves as a constant reminder of his promise to stand by his partner through thick and thin, fostering a stronger emotional connection between the couple. It symbolises equality in marriage, showcasing that both partners are equally invested in the relationship. This is particularly significant in today's society, where gender equality is championed, as it goes against outdated notions of ownership.

Wearing a wedding band is a source of pride and identity for a man, as it signifies that he is happily committed and proud to be married. It allows him to affirm his role as a devoted partner and honour the unique bond he shares with his spouse. The ring can also act as a deterrent to infidelity, reinforcing the commitment to remain faithful.

In addition to its emotional significance, the wedding band also holds practical value. When choosing a wedding band, men can opt for a ring that is durable and low-maintenance, especially if they are engaged in hands-on work. The fit, width, and weight of the ring are important considerations to ensure comfort and ease of wear during everyday tasks.

Furthermore, the wedding band can be personalised with engravings of initials, dates, or meaningful symbols, adding a distinctive touch that elevates its significance. Some couples may also choose matching or complementary designs to create a unified emblem of their love.

The wedding band has become a powerful symbol of modern love and commitment, allowing men to publicly celebrate their relationships and showcase their devotion to their spouses. It is a tangible reminder of the promises made and a way to strengthen the emotional bond between partners.

Choosing a style

The style of a wedding band is an important aspect of the ring selection process, as it reflects the groom's unique personality and lifestyle. Here are some key considerations when it comes to choosing a style for a men's wedding band:

Width

The width of a wedding band is an important factor to consider. Men's wedding bands typically range from 2mm to 12mm in width, with the average being around 8mm. The ideal width depends on the groom's hand size and finger thickness. Men with larger hands or those who work with their hands may prefer thicker bands, while those with smaller hands and thinner fingers might opt for bands between 1.5mm and 3mm. Wider rings tend to be more expensive due to the larger quantity of metal required.

Metal Type

The choice of metal for a wedding band is not just about aesthetics but also durability and comfort. Popular options include platinum, white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, titanium, and stainless steel. Platinum is known for its durability and hypoallergenic properties, while gold variations offer a timeless and traditional look. Contemporary choices like titanium and tungsten are scratch-resistant and often more affordable. The colour of the metal is also worth considering, with options like white, rose, or yellow gold.

Ring Shape

The shape of the ring can vary, with options such as a classic court (round inside and out), D-shape (round outside, flat inside), flat ring (no curves, straight edges), and flat court (flat exterior, round interior). The shape affects the comfort and fit of the ring, so it's important to try on different shapes to see which feels best.

Finish

The finish of the ring refers to the texture and polish of the metal. A high polish finish is the most common, giving the ring a reflective and shiny surface. Matte finishes are also popular among grooms who prefer a less shiny and more understated look. Other options include satin, brushed, hammered, and sandblasted finishes, each offering a unique texture and level of reflectiveness.

Details and Accents

Adding details and accents to a wedding band can make it truly unique. Diamonds, either as seamless accents or more intricate designs, are a popular choice for men's wedding bands. Milgrain, which involves adding small metal balls or beads to the ring, is another way to add texture and detail. Carving is also an option for those who want to incorporate intricate patterns or designs without the use of gemstones.

Selecting a metal

Cost

The cost of a wedding band varies depending on the metal chosen. Platinum, for example, is considered the most valuable and expensive precious metal used for wedding bands. On the other hand, silver is a more affordable option and can be a good choice for those on a budget.

Colour

The colour of the metal is an important consideration. Yellow gold is the traditional choice for men's wedding bands and is a classic symbol of wealth and prosperity. White gold, an alloy of yellow gold and whitish metals, offers a more modern and chic look. Rose gold, a less common choice, creates a unique vintage effect.

Durability

Some metals are more durable than others. Platinum, for instance, is known for its durability and scratch resistance. Gold is also durable but may require more maintenance due to its softness. Titanium is one of the strongest metals on Earth and is highly resistant to scratches, dents, and bends.

Weight

Different metals have different weights, which can affect the comfort of the ring. Titanium and tungsten are lightweight metals that offer a comfortable fit, while gold and platinum have a slightly heavier feel.

Skin Sensitivities

If you have sensitive skin or skin allergies, it is important to choose a hypoallergenic metal. Platinum, for example, is hypoallergenic and ideal for those with sensitive skin. White gold, on the other hand, may cause skin reactions due to the nickel alloy used to make the gold white.

Personal Style

Ultimately, the choice of metal for a wedding band should reflect the individual's personal style and preferences. Whether it's the timeless appeal of a classic gold band or the modern look of titanium, there is a metal that caters to every taste.

Ring care

Caring for your wedding band is essential to keep it in good condition and maintain its appearance. Here are some general tips for ring care:

• Regular cleaning is crucial to preserving the appearance of your wedding band. Use mild soap and water to clean your ring, avoiding harsh scrubbing. Ensure that you dry the ring thoroughly with a soft cloth afterwards.
• Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals such as household cleaners and chlorine, as they can cause corrosion.
• When engaging in activities that could lead to surface scratching, such as working out or cleaning, it is advisable to remove your ring.
• Store your ring in a dry and soft location, such as a cloth-lined jewellery case, when you are not wearing it.

Additionally, it is important to consider the specific care requirements of different metals. For example:

• Platinum is known for its durability and resistance to abrasion. It is also hypoallergenic and unlikely to cause skin reactions.
• White gold is plated with rhodium, a member of the platinum family, to achieve its brilliant white colour. However, the rhodium plating may need to be replaced after a decade.
• Yellow gold is naturally resistant to rust, tarnish, and corrosion. It is also lightweight and comfortable to wear, and it typically does not discolour skin or cause allergic reactions.
• Rose gold, due to its higher copper content, is more durable than yellow gold. However, it is more likely to discolour skin or cause allergic reactions.
• Titanium is an extremely lightweight and durable metal. It is hypoallergenic and often used in medical applications. However, titanium rings cannot be resized.
• Cobalt is an affordable option that offers scratch and dent resistance. It is also relatively lightweight and hypoallergenic.
• Tungsten is a modern choice known for its toughness and scratch resistance. It is non-reactive and will not discolour skin or cause allergic reactions. However, tungsten rings cannot be resized or engraved, and they may react to harsh chemicals and chlorine.

Frequently asked questions