Wedding Bands: Finding Your Perfect Fit

Choosing a wedding band is a big decision – after all, it's a ring you plan on wearing every day for the rest of your life. There are a few steps you can take to ensure you find the perfect fit. Firstly, it's important to consider your lifestyle. If you work with your hands or play sports, for example, you might want to opt for a simple, solid gold design or a low-profile ring. Next, you'll want to think about the type of metal. Platinum is a popular choice due to its strength and durability, but gold is also a classic option, with rose gold being perfect for those who want a more distinctive, vintage look. When it comes to the shape of your band, you'll want to consider both the look and feel of the ring. D-shaped and court shapes are traditional options, while flat and halo shapes offer a more modern or contemporary look. Finally, don't forget to measure your finger! Your finger size can change throughout the day and across the seasons, so make sure you don't buy a ring that's too tight or too loose.

Try the ring on

Trying on your wedding band is an important step in the process of choosing your ring. It is recommended that you try on a variety of different ring band widths to find the perfect mix of your comfort and style preference. The width of the band can impact the durability and longevity of the ring, with thinner bands being less durable and more susceptible to normal wear and tear. Wider bands, on the other hand, tend to be more modern and contemporary, and can accommodate more elaborate design work.

When trying on rings, it is important to consider the shape of your finger and the size of your hand. If you have small hands or thin fingers, a wider band may look overwhelming, while a thinner band will be more complementary. Additionally, if your fingers or knuckles are wider, a thinner band will be easier to put on and remove. It is also worth noting that your finger size can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the season, with hands being naturally more swollen in the morning and at night, as well as during the summer. Taking these factors into consideration will help you choose a ring that is both comfortable and aesthetically pleasing.

If you plan on wearing an engagement ring and a wedding band together, it is important to try them on together to ensure they fit comfortably and look well together. The shape of the diamond in the engagement ring can impact the style of the wedding band that will suit it best. Additionally, if you have a very large central stone on your engagement ring, you may need to consider a shaped band or one that interlocks with the stone to avoid a gap between the two rings.

Finally, don't be afraid to seek guidance from a professional jeweller, who can help you find the perfect wedding band that suits your personal style, lifestyle, and budget.

Consider your lifestyle

When choosing a wedding band, it's important to consider your lifestyle. If you work with your hands or play sports, a simple solid gold design or a low-profile ring is a good option. These rings are less likely to get in the way or sustain damage during physical activity. If you want to add some sparkle to your ring, consider a channel-set gemstone design, which will keep the pavé details secure.

If you have a hands-on job or an active lifestyle, you may want to opt for a thinner wedding band. Thinner bands are less durable and sturdy, so they may show signs of wear and tear more easily. They are also more prone to bending or scratching. However, thinner bands are generally less expensive since they use less metal, and they can make the centre stone appear larger and more impressive.

On the other hand, if you lead a busy lifestyle with lots of wear and tear on your ring, a wider band may be a better choice. Wider bands are more durable and can accommodate larger diamonds or other gemstones. They also tend to have a more modern and contemporary look. However, they usually come with a higher price tag due to the increased amount of metal needed. Additionally, wider bands may require you to size up to ensure a comfortable fit.

Ultimately, the width of your wedding band should be based on your comfort and style preferences. It's important to try on different widths to discover what feels best on your finger and complements your lifestyle.

Look online for inspiration

If you're unsure where to start when it comes to choosing a wedding band, the internet is a great place to begin your search for inspiration. Scrolling through celebrity rings and sparklers is not only a fun pastime but can also help you to narrow down your preferences. Take cues from celebrities like Hailey Bieber and Sofia Richie, who sport some seriously fabulous rings.

There are three broad categories of wedding rings: plain, diamond, and gemstone. Plain wedding rings are metal bands without gemstones, but they may have other embellishments like milgrain or a contrasting metal inlay. Diamond wedding rings can be eternity bands, with diamonds encircling the entire ring, or anniversary bands with diamonds partly encircling the band. Diamond wedding rings come in a variety of settings, including channel, shared prong, bar, pavé, bezel, and flush mount. Gemstone bands typically feature sapphires and diamonds but can include any gemstone you desire.

When it comes to metals, diamonds are usually set in platinum or gold. Platinum is a popular choice due to its strength, durability, and ability to withstand corrosion and oxidation. Over time, it develops a lovely patina that can be buffed back to a shine. Gold, on the other hand, is most commonly yellow, but it can also be white or rose-coloured when mixed with different alloys. White gold, for example, is electroplated with rhodium to maintain its white tone. When choosing gold, it's important to shop around to find the specific shade that complements your skin tone. Each jeweller uses a unique "recipe" for their gold, resulting in subtle differences in colour, even within the same karat weight. For instance, rose gold is made by adding copper, and the amount of copper determines the intensity of the pink hue.

While it's not mandatory, it's traditional for a wedding band to match the colour of the engagement ring. However, it's more important to choose a colour that suits your skin tone and consider adding complementary details like engravings. Keep in mind that highly polished bands may lose their lustre over time, while matte-finish rings may become more polished. Both finishes can be easily restored by a jeweller, but it's worth considering how your chosen finish will age.

If you're concerned about the environmental impact of mining, you may want to explore eco-friendly options like certified Fairmined or Fairtrade gold, recycled gold or platinum, or Single Mine Origin (SMO) gold, which guarantees the gold comes from a closely monitored and ethically sourced location.

Factor in your budget

Wedding bands come in a variety of styles, designs, and metals, and their prices can vary drastically. It is important to set a budget to help narrow down your choices. Here are some tips to factor in your budget when choosing a wedding band:

Set a Realistic Budget

The first step is to determine how much you can realistically spend on your wedding band. This will help you focus on options within your price range and avoid falling in love with a ring that is beyond your budget. Discuss with your partner and be open about your financial situation. It is important to prioritize and decide how much you are willing to allocate to your wedding bands.

Choose Alternative Metals

Platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands due to its strength and durability, but it comes with a high price tag. If you are looking for budget-friendly options, consider alternative metals such as white gold, palladium, tungsten, cobalt, or titanium. These metals offer a similar look to platinum but at a more affordable price. Remember that the metal you choose will also depend on your lifestyle and the level of maintenance you are comfortable with.

Opt for Thinner Bands

The width of the band can also impact the cost. Thinner bands require less metal and, therefore, tend to be more affordable. Consider choosing a ring with a slim design, especially if you plan to wear multiple rings together or if your engagement ring is elaborate. Stackable bands are trendy, and you can always add more rings to your wedding set later on.

Explore Gemstone Options

If you want to add some sparkle to your wedding band without breaking the bank, consider using gemstones instead of diamonds. Gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds can add a pop of color and visual interest to your ring. There are also more affordable options, such as amethyst, topaz, citrine, and garnet. Using gemstones instead of diamonds can help you stay within your budget without sacrificing style.

Shop Around and Online

Take the time to shop around and compare prices from different jewellers. You may find that certain jewellers offer better prices for similar designs. Additionally, consider shopping online, as you can often find wider selections and more discounted prices from reputable online jewellers. Shopping online also saves you the time and cost of visiting brick-and-mortar stores.

Choose the metal type

When it comes to choosing a metal type for your wedding band, there are several factors to consider, including durability, scratch resistance, price, comfort, and style. Here are some of the most popular metal options for wedding bands to help you make an informed decision:

Gold

Gold, including yellow, white, and rose gold, is a traditional and classic choice for wedding bands. It is a safe option that goes well with various skin tones and is easy to maintain. However, gold is a soft metal that is prone to scratches and dents, especially with higher gold content. It may also require regular maintenance and polishing to maintain its shine. The higher the karat weight, the higher the gold content and the more vibrant the colour. Pure gold, which is 24K, is usually alloyed with other metals like copper or silver to increase durability. Gold wedding bands are available in different styles, from minimalistic to intricate designs, making them a good choice for those who want a customizable and timeless ring.

Platinum

Platinum is a rare and precious metal known for its purity, durability, and stunning appearance. It is highly resistant to corrosion, tarnishing, and scratches, making it ideal for those with active lifestyles. Platinum bands tend to be heavier and more substantial feeling than other metals like gold. It is also hypoallergenic, making it suitable for individuals with metal allergies. Platinum is a good choice for those seeking a timeless and long-lasting wedding band, but it comes with a high price tag.

Palladium

Palladium is a white or silvery-coloured precious metal that resembles platinum in appearance and strength but is more affordable. It is less dense and rare than platinum and develops a patina over time. While it is scratch-resistant, palladium shows scratches and can be challenging to resize. Palladium wedding bands are a good option for those seeking a durable and affordable alternative to platinum.

Titanium

Titanium is an extremely strong, lightweight, and comfortable metal for wedding bands. It is known for its scratch resistance and modern, minimalist design. Titanium wedding bands are easy to maintain and can be crafted in various finishes, such as matte, brushed, or polished. They are a good choice for individuals who are not used to wearing jewellery regularly. However, titanium wedding bands cannot be easily resized, so ensuring the correct size is crucial.

Tungsten

Tungsten, or tungsten carbide, is a highly durable and scratch-resistant metal that is perfect for those with active lifestyles. It requires minimal maintenance and has a bright sheen. However, tungsten is a brittle metal and cannot be resized. It is typically used for men's wedding bands and offers a modern and masculine appearance.

Silver

Silver is a versatile, stylish, and affordable option for wedding bands. It is a precious metal known for its beauty and durability. Sterling silver, a combination of mostly pure silver and copper or other metals, is the most common type used in jewellery. Silver wedding bands complement various skin tones and styles, offering a base for different aesthetic preferences. However, silver is a soft metal that can tarnish over time due to oxidation, requiring regular cleaning and storage in a cool, dry place.

Frequently asked questions