Wedding Bands: Shopping For The Perfect Match

Shopping for matching wedding bands is an important task for couples ahead of their wedding day. While some engagement ring jewelers offer matching wedding bands, many do not, so it can be a challenging process. It can be difficult to find a band that suits the style of your existing ring, particularly if your engagement ring features an unusual centre stone, a unique cut, or a bold metal. However, it is worth putting time and effort into the search to obtain a perfect pairing that you can be proud to wear forever.

Matching metals and stones

Matching your wedding band to your engagement ring is a matter of personal preference. While some people love the look of a matching band, others might choose to mix and match metals for a unique look.

If you're looking to match your wedding band to your engagement ring, consider the metal and any stones. If your engagement ring is made of platinum or white gold, a wedding band set in yellow gold or rose gold can create a beautiful contrast. Conversely, if your engagement ring is a warmer hue of gold, choose a platinum or white gold band for a cool contrast. You could also opt for a mixed metal wedding band that incorporates both warm and cool hues.

For a subtle match, choose a warm-coloured gold (yellow or rose) as your primary metal and add touches of white gold or platinum. You can also use the same metal in two different purities, such as 14k and 24k white gold, for a slight difference in colour. If you want to make a bolder statement, start with a white or silver ring and add yellow or rose gold accents.

When it comes to stones, round-cut diamonds are a popular choice for engagement rings as they complement all other shapes of stones. Princess-cut diamonds, with their unique brilliance, can be paired with small round diamonds to create a sparkling effect. Cushion-cut centre stones also look stunning with other cushion-cut diamonds, while emerald-cut diamonds can be paired with a band featuring round-cut stones to add a pop of brilliance.

If you're feeling creative, don't be afraid to mix metals and shapes. You can also add texture or a unique finish to your wedding band to make it stand out. From scrolling and floral etched designs to laser-cut details or twisted metals, there are endless ways to create a one-of-a-kind wedding band that perfectly matches your engagement ring.

Customisation options

• Engravings: Adding an engraving to your wedding band is a popular way to customise your ring and infuse it with special meaning. You could engrave details such as the coordinates of your first date, your initials, or a symbol representing your shared interests. This adds a subtle yet powerful personal touch to your rings.
• Gemstones: You can add additional gemstones to your wedding band to represent your birthstone or simply to add a touch of colour and individuality. For example, you could select a Marquise or Asscher cut gemstone with vintage-inspired detailing on the metal band.
• Design from scratch: If you want your wedding band to be a true symbol of your unique love story, you can design the entire ring from scratch. This way, each element of the ring's design becomes a powerful symbol of your love and commitment. For example, you could design a solitaire ring that is sleek and modern or incorporate a favourite colour or design motif that holds special meaning for you as a couple.
• Metal choice: Customising your wedding band allows you to choose the metal that best suits your lifestyle and preferences. You can select from popular metals such as platinum, white gold, rose gold, yellow gold, cobalt, tantalum, titanium, or tungsten. For individuals with allergies, choosing a hypo-allergenic metal like platinum is ideal.
• Ring stack: You can also customise your wedding band by combining it with your engagement ring and even adding an eternity ring to create a unique ring stack. Many couples choose to solder their wedding set together, symbolising the permanent joining of their lives.
• Matching sets: For a cohesive look, you can opt for matching wedding and engagement ring sets. These sets typically include an engagement ring and matching his-and-hers bands. You can also find sets that include only the wedding bands, designed to complement a wide variety of engagement ring styles.

Remember, custom wedding bands often have a deeper emotional connection and enhanced sentimental value. So, take the time to explore the various customisation options available to create timeless heirlooms that reflect your journey and personality as a couple.

Heirloom and antique rings

History and Era:

Antique rings are those that originate from a certain historical era, with designs and craftsmanship unique to that time. For example, the Victorian era (1837-1900) featured yellow gold rings with halo settings, while the Edwardian era (1901-1910) was known for ornate platinum filigree rings with floral patterns. Art Deco rings from the 1915-1930s are characterised by mil-grain, symmetrical, and geometric designs, sometimes accented with coloured stones. Knowing the different styles from these eras can help you choose a ring that aligns with your taste.

Materials and Craftsmanship:

Antique rings were crafted using materials and techniques specific to their time. For instance, Victorian rings were primarily made of yellow gold, while Edwardian rings featured intricate platinum filigree work. Art Deco rings were often handcrafted with mil-grain details and could include coloured stone accents such as sapphires, emeralds, or rubies. Understanding the materials and craftsmanship of different eras will help you identify an authentic antique ring.

Reputable Sources:

When shopping for antique rings, it's essential to find reputable sources that specialise in vintage and antique jewellery. Look for sellers who have a passion for antique jewellery and can provide detailed information about each piece's history, materials, and provenance. Some popular options include EraGem, Antique Jewelry Mall, and The Antique Parlour, which offer a wide range of antique rings from various eras.

Sizing and Customisation:

Keep in mind that antique rings may come in non-standard sizes, so ensure that you know your ring size or are able to resize the piece to fit you comfortably. Additionally, some antique rings are one-of-a-kind heirlooms, while others can be custom-crafted to your specifications, allowing you to choose the metal type and size that suits you best.

Condition and Care:

When purchasing an antique ring, carefully inspect its condition and ask about any necessary care or maintenance. Antique rings may require special cleaning or storage methods to preserve their beauty and structure. Reputable sellers should be able to provide guidance on how to care for your antique ring to ensure its longevity.

Shopping for heirloom and antique wedding bands can be a delightful experience as you discover unique rings with rich histories. By considering the era, materials, and craftsmanship, finding reputable sources, and paying attention to sizing and condition, you can find the perfect antique ring to symbolise your love.

Gold and platinum bands

Gold and platinum are two of the most popular choices for wedding bands, offering a classic and timeless look. When shopping for matching gold or platinum bands, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure you find the perfect set.

First, consider the karat weight when choosing gold bands. The higher the karat, the higher the proportion of gold in the alloy, which can affect the color and price. For example, 24K gold is pure, but it is also more expensive and has a deeper, richer color than lower karats. 18K gold is often used in jewelry as it offers a good balance between color and durability, while 10K gold is the minimum karat weight required to be considered gold in the US. You can also choose between yellow, white, or rose gold to suit your preference and skin tone.

Platinum is another popular choice for wedding bands, known for its durability and natural white luster. It is a dense metal, making it heavier than gold, and is also naturally hypoallergenic, ideal for those with sensitive skin. Platinum is often more expensive than gold due to its rarity and the intricate process required to work with the metal. When shopping for platinum bands, look for a hallmark stamp inside the band, which will indicate the purity, such as "Plat" or "950" for 95% pure platinum.

When trying on gold and platinum bands, consider the width and profile of the ring. Wider bands tend to be bolder and more modern, while narrower styles are elegant and subtle. The profile refers to the shape of the ring's cross-section, which can be flat, rounded, or a combination of both. You should also think about the finish, as polished bands offer a shiny, mirror-like surface, while brushed or matte finishes provide a softer, more understated look.

To ensure your gold or platinum wedding bands match, look for sets that are designed to complement each other. Many jewelers offer matching his-and-hers sets or women's and men's bands that coordinate in style and design. You can also choose to customize your bands by adding engraving, gemstones, or other personal touches while still maintaining a cohesive look.

Finally, don't forget to consider the practical aspects of wearing a gold or platinum band. These metals are durable and long-lasting, but they may scratch or scuff over time, especially if you lead an active lifestyle. Platinum is known for developing a patina, a soft sheen that many people find attractive, while gold may require occasional re-plating to maintain its luster.

Mixed metals

Mixing metals in wedding bands is a unique and stylish way to add intrigue and excitement to your ring stack. It is also a great way to incorporate other metal tones into your jewellery wardrobe, allowing you to wear your pieces more often and with more versatility.

When mixing metals, there are no rules. You can stack rings in a variety of widths and colours to create something that speaks to your inner self. A good place to start is to pair colour contrasts together. Warm and cool colours look best when paired together. For example, if your engagement ring is platinum or white gold, choose a wedding band in yellow gold or rose gold. If your engagement ring is a warmer hue of gold, go for platinum or white gold for your wedding band. You could also try mixing all three hues of gold – white, yellow, and rose – for a subtle yet stylish difference in colour.

When mixing metals, it is important to consider the durability of the metals. Some metals, like gold, may require more maintenance due to their softness. Platinum and titanium are known for their durability and scratch resistance, making them excellent choices for those seeking long-lasting wedding bands.

You can also mix metals by including rings with mixed metal design elements within their design. For example, you could try a mixed metal eternity band or a ring with a mixed metal inlay.

If you're looking for a more subtle mix of metals, you can choose a warm-coloured gold (yellow or rose) as your primary metal and add touches of white gold or platinum. You can also use the same metal in two different purities, such as 14k and 24k white gold, for a very slight but stylish difference in colour.

Frequently asked questions