Wedding Bands: A Guide To Choosing The Perfect Ring

Choosing a wedding band to match your engagement ring is an important part of your journey towards getting married. While some engagement ring jewellers offer matching wedding bands, many do not, so it can be a difficult process. It's important to put time and effort into finding the perfect pairing, as you'll be wearing the two rings together forever.

There are a few key things to consider when choosing your wedding band. Firstly, you'll want to select a metal. Traditionally, wedding bands are made using the same type of metal as the engagement ring, but this is not a requirement. Mixing metals can create a stunning and unique combination. Next, you'll want to decide if you want a flush fit. A flush fit wedding ring sits level with the engagement ring, creating a seamless appearance. If you want a flush fit, you can opt for a curved or contoured band that fits around the centre stone or setting of the engagement ring. Open bands with a gap can also help create a flush fit. If a flush fit doesn't appeal to you, you can wear the rings on separate hands or with a gap between them. Finally, you'll want to select a wedding band type. There are numerous options available, including stacking bands, contoured bands, classic plain metal bands, notched bands, diamond bands, ring jackets, and open bands.

Metals don't have to match, but keeping them uniform is less bold

While there is no rule that wedding bands have to match, keeping the metals uniform is a safe way to avoid making a bold statement with your rings.

Traditionally, wedding bands were expected to match, with couples in ancient Egypt exchanging rings made of braided reeds, and European nobility in the Middle Ages following suit. However, modern couples are increasingly breaking away from this convention, adding a unique and personal touch to their special day and their marriage.

If you want to stick to tradition, matching metals are a good way to go. But if you're worried about making a bold statement, there are other ways to personalise your rings without keeping the metals uniform. You could, for instance, add a special engraving or choose a band with a unique design element that holds special meaning for you and your partner.

If you're concerned about how the metals will wear over time, it's worth noting that different metals have different levels of hardness and will scratch and wear down differently. For example, platinum is harder than gold, so if you pair a platinum wedding band with a gold engagement ring, the gold will likely become scratched over time. Similarly, white gold is not a naturally white metal, so it will need to be re-plated by a jeweller every couple of years to maintain its bright white colour.

Ultimately, the choice is up to you and your partner. If you prefer a more subtle look, keeping the metals uniform is a safe bet. But if you want to make a statement, there are plenty of alternative options to explore.

Try on lots of types of rings with your engagement ring

Trying on lots of different types of rings with your engagement ring is a great way to get a feel for what you like and dislike. It can also help you understand what styles and shapes complement your engagement ring. Here are some tips to keep in mind when trying on wedding bands with your engagement ring:

• If you want your wedding band to sit flush against your engagement ring with no gap, opt for a curved or contoured band that follows the shape of your engagement ring. This is especially important if you have a low-set engagement ring.
• Consider the metal of your wedding band. While it is traditional to match the metal of your engagement ring, mixed metals are becoming increasingly popular. For example, pairing a white gold engagement ring with a yellow gold band can create a unique and modern look.
• Try on different styles of wedding bands, such as classic plain metal bands, diamond bands, or notched bands. A diamond band with small, round diamonds can add extra sparkle and glamour to your ring finger.
• If you have a solitaire engagement ring, a curved wedding band can make your centre stone appear larger by adding width and sparkle.
• For marquise, oval, and pear-cut engagement rings, a chevron wedding band can be a stylish choice that complements the fashion-forward feel of these cuts.
• If you want to add some bling to a simple or channel-set engagement ring, consider a channel-set wedding band.
• A bezel-set engagement ring pairs well with a flat, unembellished wedding band for a minimal and sleek look.
• Emerald, princess, and Asscher-cut engagement rings can be beautifully complemented by a baguette wedding band. An eternity band with stones that go all the way around can add some glamour to these cuts.

Match the width of your band to the width of the band on your engagement ring

When it comes to choosing a wedding band to match the width of your engagement ring, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, it's important to understand that the width of your band will impact the overall look and feel of your ring. Wider bands tend to have a more modern and contemporary feel, while thinner bands offer a more delicate and romantic aesthetic. Additionally, the width of your band will also affect the types of designs and settings you can choose from.

If you're looking for a classic and elegant look, a thinner band between 2 to 2.5 millimetres is a great option. These bands pair well with smaller solitaire diamonds and can be stacked with a matching wedding band or a bolder, chunkier ring. However, it's important to note that thinner bands don't leave much room for intricate details and designs. They also may not be secure enough to hold a diamond larger than two carats.

For a more versatile option, consider a band width of 3 to 4 millimetres. This is the average width for an engagement ring and allows for gemstone and diamond details. You can choose any shape and size for your centre stone, as this band width isn't easily overwhelmed. This width also provides more space for filigree details or laser designs. Just be sure to choose a wedding band that is of a similar size or smaller to create a balanced set.

If you want a ring with lots of engraved details, gemstone additions, or a large centre stone, consider a wider band of 5 to 6 millimetres. This band width can stand alone as a statement piece or be paired with a very thin band. It also works well as a channel setting for a large solitaire stone. However, keep in mind that rings over 6 millimetres are typically reserved for statement pieces and anniversary jewellery.

Ultimately, the width of your wedding band should be based on your personal preference and style. Don't be afraid to try on different widths to see what feels comfortable and looks best with your engagement ring. You can also seek the advice of a professional jeweller to find the perfect match.

Decide if a flush fit is important to you

Deciding whether a flush fit is important to you will help you determine the type of wedding band you want. A flush-fit wedding ring sits level with the engagement ring, creating a seamless and integrated appearance. This means there is no gap between the two rings, and they look like a single ring. If you desire a snug look with no negative space between the two rings, a flush fit is important.

If you are having trouble finding a straight band to sit flush with your engagement ring, you can still achieve the look by opting for a curved or contoured band that fits neatly around the centre stone or setting of the engagement ring. Open bands with a gap can also help create a flush fit by allowing the centre stone of the engagement ring to nestle in the wedding band's gap. Open and curved rings offer aesthetic appeal, comfort, and protection to your engagement ring. However, they have limited adjustability when it comes to resizing.

If a flush fit doesn't appeal to you, you can always consider wearing your rings on separate hands or with a gap between them. A gap between an engagement ring and a wedding band was the classic look for decades. Remember, there are no strict rules when it comes to matching your engagement ring and wedding band. Each ring has its own distinct features and deserves individual attention.

Select a wedding band type, e.g. notched, stacking, or classic plain metal

When it comes to selecting a wedding band type, there are a few options to consider: notched, stacking, or classic plain metal bands. Here's a more detailed look at each style:

Notched Wedding Bands

Notched wedding bands are a great option if you're looking for a flush fit with your engagement ring. This style is designed to fit like a puzzle piece, with a straight band that features a notch at the front to accommodate the centre stone of your engagement ring. Notched bands can be customised to fit the contours of your ring, creating an elegant and natural pairing.

Stacking Wedding Bands

Stacking wedding bands offer a unique way to express your personal style and experiment with different metals and stones. You can mix and match multiple rings, including your engagement ring, to create a stack that showcases your individuality. When building a stack, consider the size, shape, and metal of each band, opting for smoother edges and similar profiles to ensure a comfortable fit. There are no rules when it comes to mixing metals, so feel free to combine rose, yellow, and white gold or silver for a pop of colour and texture.

Classic Plain Metal Wedding Bands

If you prefer a more traditional approach, a classic plain metal wedding band is a timeless choice. These bands come in a variety of metals, such as gold, platinum, or alternative metals like tungsten or titanium. When selecting a classic band, consider your personal style and whether you want to match your partner's ring. Plain metal bands can also be customised with engravings or unique finishes, adding a touch of personality to your timeless choice.

Ultimately, the decision of which wedding band type to choose depends on your individual style and preferences. Whether you opt for a notched band for a seamless fit, create a stack to express yourself, or go for a classic plain metal band, your wedding band will be a beautiful symbol of your commitment.

Frequently asked questions