Rhiannon Hendricks
There are many ways to conjoin your wedding and engagement rings. Traditionally, it is common to choose a wedding band that matches the metal type of your engagement ring. However, mixed-metal bridal sets are becoming increasingly popular. You could also opt for a contoured wedding band, which is designed to fit snugly around your engagement ring, or a wrap-around wedding band, which wraps around your engagement ring. Another option is to solder the two rings together, creating one larger ring. This can be more comfortable and reduce the need for re-plating. Ultimately, the decision of how to conjoin your wedding and engagement rings is a personal one and there is no proper way to do it.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Order of rings | Traditionally, the wedding band is worn first, followed by the engagement ring, but some people choose to wear their engagement ring on the outside |
| Ring type | Wedding rings are traditionally a plain metal band or a diamond-encrusted eternity band, while engagement rings typically have one dominant stone, either alone or surrounded by smaller stones |
| Metal type | Traditionally, the wedding band matches the metal type of the engagement ring, but mixed-metal bridal sets are gaining popularity |
| Ring combination | Rings can be combined by soldering them together, using ring adjusters, or with plastic or metal ring guards |
| Ring style | The style of the wedding band should complement the engagement ring, taking into account factors such as metal type, stone shape and setting, and personal style |
| Number of rings | Some people choose to wear both an engagement and wedding ring, while others opt for a single ring to symbolize both engagement and married status |
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What You'll Learn
Soldering rings together
Soldering is a process that permanently joins two or more rings together. It involves using a torch to heat a metal alloy (solder), which melts and fuses the rings at the joint. This process creates a strong bond between the metal rings, making them more resistant to everyday wear and tear.
Before soldering, a jeweller will thoroughly clean both rings to remove any oils or debris. The rings are then positioned exactly as they should appear when worn, and precise amounts of solder are placed at the joining points. The jeweller carefully heats the area with a torch until the solder melts and flows between the rings. After cooling, the joined rings are cleaned, polished, and inspected for security.
However, there are also some disadvantages to consider. Soldering is irreversible, and once the rings are fused, it can be challenging and potentially damaging to separate them. This may be a drawback if you anticipate wanting to wear the rings separately in the future or if there is sentimental value attached to each individual ring. Soldering can also pose a risk to certain gemstones or delicate materials present in the rings, as high temperatures can cause damage or discolouration. For example, heat-sensitive gemstones such as opals or pearls may be susceptible to damage during the soldering process.
It is important to note that soldering rings is a complex technique that demands a certain level of skill, knowledge, and experience. While it may be tempting to try DIY jewellery soldering, it is best to hire a professional jeweller to ensure a clean, secure bond without risking damage to your rings.
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Matching metals
Matching the metals of your wedding and engagement rings is a popular choice for couples. Gold, in its various forms, is the most common choice for engagement and wedding rings. It is available in different styles, such as yellow, rose, or white gold, and karats (10k, 14k, 18k, and 24k). Yellow gold is a timeless classic, while white gold is a good choice if you want your ring to go with other jewellery you wear. Rose gold is also an increasingly popular choice for wedding bands.
Platinum is another popular choice for wedding rings. It is a precious metal that is long-lasting and durable. Platinum is also a good option for those who want their rings to match, as it is a versatile metal that pairs well with other rings, such as white gold. Palladium is another precious metal that is similar to platinum and is a good budget-friendly option.
Alternative metals such as titanium and tungsten carbide are also available for wedding bands. Titanium is a lightweight metal, so it is a good option if you want a ring that will not weigh you down. Tungsten carbide, on the other hand, is scratch-resistant and budget-friendly.
Ultimately, there is no "best" metal for wedding rings, as it depends on your unique needs, tastes, and lifestyle. Some factors to consider when choosing the metal for your rings include durability, colour, aesthetics, and value for money. It is also important to consider your skin tone and lifestyle when making your decision.
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Wearing on separate hands
Wearing your wedding and engagement rings on separate hands is a valid option, and it is a common practice in some cultures. For instance, in Turkey and much of Eastern Europe, it is customary to wear the engagement ring on the right hand and the wedding ring on the left. Some Jewish-Americans also wear their wedding rings on their right hand.
There are several reasons why someone might choose to wear their wedding and engagement rings on separate hands. One reason could be a desire to showcase cultural or regional traditions, as is the case in Turkey and Eastern Europe. Another reason could be a preference for the aesthetic of wearing the rings separately, especially if the rings do not visually complement each other. For example, one person noted that their white gold engagement ring and silicone wedding band looked horrible together, so they opted to wear them on separate hands.
Additionally, wearing the rings on separate hands can be a practical solution if you have jobs or hobbies that are tough on your hands. For instance, a nurse chose to wear her wedding band on her left hand and her diamond ring on her right, possibly for convenience or to avoid damage to her diamond ring. Similarly, someone who enjoys gardening and manual labour might choose to wear a silicone wedding band on their right hand and an engagement ring on their left, only wearing the engagement ring when going out.
In some cases, the decision to wear the rings on separate hands may be influenced by the shape and size of the fingers. One person shared that they found it more straightforward to get their wedding ring sized for their right hand, as their engagement ring was already sized for their left. Another person mentioned that their engagement ring was delicate, and they didn't want to add an extra band to it, so they opted for a separate wedding band on the other hand.
Ultimately, the choice of how to wear your wedding and engagement rings is a personal one. You can draw inspiration from traditions or make your own rules based on your preferences and lifestyle.
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Stacking bands
The first step in creating a ring stack is deciding how many rings you want to stack and on how many fingers. There is no set number of rings to stack, but it's important to ensure that the overall look is balanced. Too many rings may appear cluttered, while too few or uneven spacing can create an awkward look.
When stacking rings, it's important to consider the different styles and how they will layer together. For example, a solitaire engagement ring will likely pair well with a straight wedding band, while a curved band may be a better fit for an engagement ring with a large diamond. You can mix and match metals and diamond shapes, but the details should complement each other rather than clash. If your engagement ring is modern and sleek, a vintage-inspired wedding band might not be the best choice. Similarly, if your engagement ring is 18k yellow gold, avoid stacking it with a 14k rose gold band to prevent scratching.
You can also add a pop of personality to your stack by incorporating vibrant coloured gemstone rings. Birthstone bands, engravings, or symbol-inspired designs can add sentimental value and create a unique stack. You can also work with a jeweller to incorporate gemstones from family heirloom pieces.
To ensure comfort and functionality, it is recommended to size up slightly with each additional band to accommodate the width of your finger. This will prevent the rings from sliding around.
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Ring jackets
A ring jacket is a band that surrounds an engagement ring on either side, often featuring additional diamonds, gemstones, or intricate designs. It is designed to fit around or alongside the main ring, offering a fresh and enhanced look. Think of it as a stylish "coat" or "frame" that accentuates the beauty of your ring.
There are a few different types of ring jackets to consider. A wrap or bypass jacket consists of two stackable bands that merge and wrap around the primary ring, offering a unique and trendy look. Enhancer jackets add more stones or play with colors, amplifying the bling factor. Guard jackets, on the other hand, are designed to protect your ring from potential damage.
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Frequently asked questions
There is no "proper" order for wearing your wedding band and engagement ring. Traditionally, the wedding band is worn closest to the heart, but today it's about personal preference.
Traditionally, it’s common to choose a wedding band that matches the metal type of your engagement ring. However, mixed-metal bridal sets are gaining popularity. If your engagement ring has a unique design, consider a contoured wedding band or ring jackets, which can beautifully complement your engagement ring.
You can buy ring adjusters or plastic or metal ring guards to make your rings smaller and attach them together. Alternatively, you can solder the two rings together, but be aware that this is a permanent change.
Ultimately, this comes down to personal preference. You can wear both, just one, or choose when to wear each depending on the occasion.
