Junior Rasmussen
Wedding rings are traditionally exchanged during the wedding ceremony as a symbol of unity and marriage. While some couples opt to wear both their engagement and wedding rings, others choose to forgo the wedding band and stick with their engagement ring only. Ultimately, the decision to add to one's wedding ring is a matter of personal preference. Some choose to upgrade their wedding rings to celebrate milestones, such as anniversaries or special occasions, while others may want to change the aesthetic of their ring to match their current style. Upgrades can include adding additional bands, swapping or adding stones, changing the metal colour, or engraving meaningful inscriptions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Adding to a wedding ring | It is common to add to a wedding ring, especially for milestone anniversaries or to mark a new life event |
| Reasons for adding to a wedding ring | To celebrate a milestone, to symbolise a fresh start, to match current style or taste, or to add to a ring stack |
| Examples of additions | Larger stones, additional stones, different metal colours, engravings, side stones, halo around the centre stone |
| Considerations when adding to a wedding ring | Ensure any new additions complement existing pieces, especially if mixing metals |
| Not adding to a wedding ring | Some people choose not to add to their wedding ring, especially if they feel it would detract from the original ring or if they are not accustomed to wearing jewellery |
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What You'll Learn
Adding a new band to your wedding ring stack
Choose the Right Band
When adding a new band to your wedding ring stack, it's important to consider the size, shape, and metal of the band. You can mix and match different metals, such as rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold/silver, to create an interesting contrast of colours and textures. You can also experiment with different silhouettes, such as the classic pavé band, bezel-set band, or baguette band, which have smoother edges and pair well with various engagement ring styles.
Stacking Techniques
There are a few techniques to consider when stacking your wedding bands. Firstly, you can create a classic stack by wearing two to three rings, depending on the thickness of the bands and your comfort. Secondly, you can mix and match different styles, such as delicate bands, statement gemstone rings, or rings with negative space, to create visual interest and depth. Additionally, you can play with different combinations by stacking multiple rings on a single finger while keeping the other fingers minimal.
Commemorating Special Occasions
Upgrading Your Ring
Upgrading your wedding ring is another reason to add a new band to your stack. This could be done to celebrate a milestone, such as a 10 or 15-year anniversary, or simply because your aesthetic tastes have changed since your wedding. Upgrades can include resetting the ring in a different metal colour, swapping the centre stone for a larger or coloured stone, or adding more stones to celebrate special occasions. Men can also upgrade their wedding rings by opting for different metal colours, embedding a secret diamond, or adding a meaningful inscription.
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Upgrading the centre stone
Choosing the Stone
When upgrading the centre stone, you can opt for a larger stone or a different type of stone. Diamonds are the most popular choice for wedding rings, but you may also consider gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, or emeralds to add a unique touch of colour. The size and cut of the stone are important factors to consider, as they will impact the overall look of the ring and the cost of the upgrade.
Compatibility with the Setting
It's important to ensure that the new stone you choose will be compatible with the existing setting of your ring. Rings with elaborate centre stone settings may not accommodate a new stone of a different shape and size. In some cases, you may need to change the setting or even melt down the ring entirely to accommodate a larger or differently shaped stone.
Cost Considerations
The cost of upgrading the centre stone will depend on various factors, including the number, size, and quality of the stones. If you're adding multiple stones, the overall cost will increase. Larger stones will generally be more expensive, and they may require a deeper band and greater setting depth. The type and quality of the stones will also affect the price. For example, diamonds are typically more expensive than other gemstones, and their price can vary depending on their cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight.
Timing the Upgrade
Upgrading your wedding ring can be done at any time, but milestone anniversaries are often popular choices. You may also choose to upgrade your ring if your tastes have changed or if you feel that the ring is no longer in style. Upgrading your ring can be a symbolic way to celebrate your union and reflect on your marriage as you move forward together.
Working with a Jeweller
When upgrading the centre stone of your wedding ring, it's important to consult with an experienced jeweller who can assess the band's thickness, width, and structural integrity to determine if the modification is possible. The jeweller will also be responsible for sourcing the diamonds or gemstones, which can take several weeks, especially if the stones are sourced from overseas. Be sure to ask to see examples of the jeweller's previous work to ensure you're making an informed decision.
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Adding more stones
When considering adding more stones to your wedding ring, it's important to think about the design of your ring and whether it can accommodate larger or additional stones. Not all rings are created equal, and some may not have the structural integrity to support a larger centre stone or the necessary modifications for additional stones. For example, rings with elaborate centre stone settings may not be able to accommodate a new stone of a different shape and size. On the other hand, plain wedding bands are usually the best type of ring to modify, as they have no existing designs to work around.
If you're set on adding more stones, there are a few ways a jeweller can modify your ring. One method is to add prong settings or build a bezel using wire to set the additional stones. Another method is a flush setting, where the stone is set directly into the metal, requiring the jeweller to create a hole in the ring. This technique works well for plain bands and additional side stones. If the jeweller determines that your ring cannot be modified, you can always opt for a custom ring replication, where the jeweller creates a 3D design based on your original ring, modified to include the additional stones.
It's also important to consider the type, size, colour, quality, and shape of the additional stones you want to add. For example, if you're adding a centre stone, you may want to go for a larger diamond or a coloured gemstone. If you're adding side stones, you might choose smaller diamonds or coloured gemstones that complement the centre stone. Keep in mind that the price of the stones will vary depending on these factors, and rare gemstones or particular colours may be harder to source and more expensive.
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Engraving your wedding ring
Adding on to your wedding ring is a great way to celebrate a milestone, refresh your aesthetic, or simply add a personal touch. One way to do this is by engraving your wedding ring. Engraving can be done at any time—before or after the wedding—and is a simple way to make your ring even more meaningful.
When it comes to engraving your wedding ring, you have a few options to consider. Firstly, you can choose between machine engraving, laser engraving, and hand engraving. Machine engraving is precise and clean, using a diamond-tipped cutter, and is available in three fonts: Times New Roman, Helvetica, and Script. However, it can only be applied to the inside of the ring and is not suitable for wider rings or those with certain materials. Laser engraving, on the other hand, allows for more intricate designs. Hand engraving is recommended for the inside of engagement rings to ensure a good finish and avoid damage to any diamonds. It is available in Script or Times New Roman font.
When deciding on your message, it's important to keep it short and sweet. A shorter engraving is more impactful and easier to read. You can go with something traditional, like your names or initials, or a meaningful date. If you share a faith, you could include a religious quote or bible verse. You could also add a romantic sentiment, a lighthearted inside joke, or a snippet from a song or poem that resonates with you.
Take your time to come up with the right message, as it will be with you for many years to come. Don't be afraid to plan ahead and communicate your timeline to your jeweler, as engraving can take some time. Finally, triple-check your final message before sending it off to be engraved.
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Changing the metal colour
Wedding rings are often worn for the rest of a person's life, so it's a decision that shouldn't be taken lightly. However, tastes and preferences can change over time, and it's not uncommon for people to want to upgrade their wedding rings. One way to upgrade a wedding ring is to change the metal colour.
Gold is the most common choice for wedding bands and is available in a range of colours, including yellow gold, rose gold, and white gold. The hue of gold jewellery can change over time due to general wear and chemical reactions with the environment. For example, white gold can start to appear less vibrant and more yellowish over time. To restore its original colour, it can be rhodium-plated by a jeweller. Similarly, yellow gold and rose gold rings can be polished by a jeweller to restore their colour.
Platinum is another popular choice for wedding rings due to its stability and durability. Platinum retains its colour well and is suitable for everyday wear. However, it may appear less shiny than brand new white gold.
For those who want a lightweight option, titanium is a good choice. Tungsten carbide is another popular metal for wedding rings, but it tends to be heavier and cannot be resized. Tantalum has also gained popularity in recent years due to its distinctive grey-blue tone and array of textures.
In addition to choosing a new metal colour, some people may opt to add additional bands or stones to their existing wedding rings to mark special occasions or milestones.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is ultimately up to you and your preferences. Some people choose to forgo the wedding band if they feel it takes away from the beauty of their engagement ring, or if they want to save money.
Yes, you can add a second wedding band, mix metals for a two-tone effect, or add side stones for a subtle enhancement. You can also upgrade the centre stone, change the setting, or add a halo around it.
Yes, you may want to consider a sleeker, more replaceable option for work, especially if your job requires regular ring removal and cleaning.
Yes, you can wear your engagement ring on one hand and your wedding band on the other, especially if they are diverse rings that don't stack well together.
Milestone anniversaries, like 10 or 15 years, are popular times to upgrade. You may also want to add a second diamond for an anniversary or infuse colour to celebrate a special occasion, like a new job.
