Choosing The Perfect Wedding Band

Picking out a wedding band is an important decision, as it's something you'll likely wear every day for the rest of your life. While some engagement ring jewelers offer matching wedding bands, many do not, so it can be tricky to find a band that suits your existing ring. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect wedding band:

- Start your search early. It's recommended to begin looking for your wedding band three to four months before the wedding, especially if you're considering a custom design.

- Shop with your engagement ring. While there are no strict rules, you'll likely want to love the way your engagement ring and wedding band look together, as that's how you'll often wear them. You can choose a matching set or complementary designs.

- Keep your lifestyle in mind. If you're very active or use your hands a lot for work, you may want to choose a more durable option that's low maintenance.

- Factor in your budget. Wedding rings can be expensive, so set a budget that works for you and find an option that's within your price range.

- Try on different styles. It's important to try on various styles to find what you're most comfortable with and what complements your engagement ring.

- Trust your jeweler. If you're unsure where to start, don't hesitate to seek guidance from a reputable jeweler who can help you find the right ring for your style and budget.

Start your search early

Start your wedding band search early on in the wedding planning process. It's recommended that you begin looking for bands about three to four months before the wedding day. This will give you ample time for customization, sizing adjustments, and any unexpected delays. It's also a good idea to have your rings chosen early so that you can facilitate other decisions, such as coordinating metals with your wedding bands.

If you're opting for custom-designed wedding rings, factor in the additional time needed for design consultations, production, and revisions. Custom rings often take several weeks to months to complete, depending on the complexity of the design and the jeweler's workload.

It's also important to allow time for sizing and any necessary adjustments once you've selected your rings. It's common for couples to require resizing to ensure a comfortable fit, so plan for at least a few weeks for this process to be completed by your jeweler.

Starting your search early will also give you the opportunity to shop around for the best deals without feeling rushed. Planning ahead allows you to take advantage of sales, promotions, and discounts that may be available, especially during the holiday season and Valentine's Day when there are often increased promotions and sales in the jewelry industry.

Shop with your engagement ring

When shopping for a wedding band, it's important to keep your engagement ring in mind. While there aren't strict rules about pairing your engagement ring with your wedding band, you should love the way they look together, as that's how you'll likely wear them. It's up to you whether you want the set to be a perfect match or complementary.

Try on options both with and without your engagement ring to ensure you like the look both ways. The shape of your diamond in your engagement ring can impact which wedding ring style will suit it best. For example, if you have a solitaire diamond engagement ring, a band with small diamonds or a plain band could complement it well. You can also choose to mix and match metals for a unique look.

If you're planning on permanently joining your wedding set, make sure you're sure you'll always want to wear the pieces together in that order. Many people enjoy the flexibility of changing up their wedding stack, adding in eternity rings, or even upgrading the rings over time, which can be difficult if they are soldered together.

Keep your lifestyle in mind

When choosing a wedding band, it's essential to keep your lifestyle in mind to ensure you select a ring that you'll be comfortable wearing every day. Here are some factors to consider:

Durability and Maintenance

If you lead an active lifestyle, work with your hands, or engage in sports, opt for a more durable wedding band that can withstand daily wear and tear. Simple gold or platinum bands are perfect if you're not interested in the extra upkeep that intricate designs may require. These classic metals are also ideal if you want a fuss-free option that you can wear all the time without worrying about cleaning or losing your ring.

Height and Profile

The height of your wedding band is crucial for comfort and practicality. If you work with your hands or play sports, choose a ring with a low profile that won't get in the way or hit things. A simple, solid gold design or a channel-set gemstone ring can offer sparkle without sacrificing durability.

Metal Type

Consider the type of metal that aligns with your lifestyle. Platinum is an excellent choice for those who work with their hands or play sports due to its durability. If you're allergic to certain metals, opt for hypoallergenic options like platinum, titanium, or cobalt. Additionally, if your hands come into contact with harsh chemicals, be mindful that certain metals, like gold, can become discoloured.

Width and Fit

Wedding bands come in various widths, typically ranging from narrow (4mm) to medium (6mm) to wide (8mm). Choose a width that suits your hand size and comfort level. Additionally, consider the fit of the ring—standard fit rings are flat on the inside, while comfort fit rings have a rounder shape, making them more comfortable for some wearers.

Personal Style

Your wedding band should reflect your personal style and taste. If you usually wear jeans and a t-shirt or sportswear, a simple, minimalist band might align better with your lifestyle. On the other hand, if you prefer a more elegant or bold look, you can opt for a wider band or one with diamonds or other gemstones.

Don't worry about matching

Matching wedding bands are a symbol of your commitment to each other and your shared future as a unit. However, it is not necessary for couples to have matching wedding bands. Couples are increasingly choosing to select rings that reflect their individual styles and tastes rather than choosing pieces that match.

Couples might express their love and devotion to one another through the use of corresponding colours and metals. For example, couples can find compatibility by choosing precious metals, which are more appealing to women, and less valuable metals, which appeal to men. Nevertheless, you and your partner can choose to express your individuality and let your partner pick the ring that suits them best.

If you are still interested in coordinating your bands without them being identical, you can consider including a hidden customization aspect, such as a thoughtful engraving inside the rings.

Factor in your budget

When it comes to choosing a wedding band, one of the most important things to consider is your budget. Wedding bands can range in price from $180 to $2,000 and above, so it's essential to have a clear idea of how much you want to spend. Here are some factors to consider when budgeting for your wedding band:

Metal Choice

The type of metal you choose for your wedding band will significantly impact the cost. Platinum is one of the most expensive options, known for its durability and ability to withstand everyday wear and tear. If you're looking for a more affordable option, consider a plain white gold band, which is typically less expensive than platinum. Gold is a softer metal, so keep in mind that it may be more prone to scratches or dents over time. Another popular metal choice is palladium, which is similar in durability to platinum but can be harder to find due to manufacturing challenges.

Diamond Embellishments

Adding diamonds to your wedding band will also increase the cost. The number, size, and quality of diamonds will all play a role in determining the final price. If you're considering a diamond wedding band, be prepared to spend more than you would on a plain metal band. Eternity bands, which feature diamonds all the way around the ring, are particularly popular among brides and can create a stunning visual when paired with an engagement ring.

Customization

If you're looking for a wedding band that perfectly matches your engagement ring, customization may be necessary. This can increase the cost of your band, especially if you opt for a custom design. However, it's worth noting that many couples choose complementary bands that add personality and texture to their overall look, rather than perfectly matching bands.

Engravings

Adding a personalized engraving to your wedding band can be a meaningful touch, but it may come at an additional cost. Some jewellers offer free engraving, while others may charge a fee, especially for hand engraving. If you're considering an engraved wedding band, be sure to factor this into your budget.

Your Overall Wedding Budget

When deciding how much to spend on your wedding band, consider your overall wedding budget. Wedding bands typically account for around three percent of a couple's wedding budget, but this can vary depending on your priorities. Discuss with your partner how much of your budget you want to allocate to the wedding bands and be sure to shop around to find options that fit within your price range.

Frequently asked questions