Wedding Bands: Size Matters

There are many factors to consider when choosing the size of your wedding band. Firstly, you should confirm the size of your engagement ring and ensure it fits correctly. If your engagement ring is too loose, it may spin around on your finger, and if it's too tight, there may be excessive bulging of the skin beneath the ring. If your engagement ring fits correctly, it is recommended that your wedding band is the same size. However, if your engagement ring is slightly too snug, you may want to opt for a wedding band that is half a size bigger. This is also a good idea if you are choosing a wide wedding band or if you expect your weight to change.

The impact of pregnancy on ring size

Pregnancy brings about a lot of changes in a woman's body, and that includes changes in ring size. While some women may not experience any changes at all, most women will notice their rings feeling tighter as their pregnancy progresses. This is due to bloating and fluid retention, which can cause fingers to swell. For most women, this change becomes noticeable around the 20th week of pregnancy, while for others, it may not occur until later in the pregnancy.

The important thing to remember is to take off your rings as soon as they start feeling tight. If they become stuck on your finger, it may be necessary to cut them off, which can be painful and cause damage to the ring. Instead, you can opt for a replacement ring or a substitute ring that you can wear during your pregnancy. This can be a simple, inexpensive band that you won't mind putting away once your original rings fit again. Some women also choose to wear their original rings on a chain as a necklace during this time.

After giving birth, most women will return to their original ring size as the swelling goes down. However, for some women, their ring size may change permanently, and there's no way to know which case you will fall into until after you give birth. So, instead of resizing your rings during pregnancy, it's recommended to wait a few months after giving birth and then resize them if needed.

Resizing rings can be expensive, and there is a risk of damaging the ring or losing any gemstones or diamonds set in the band. Additionally, if you plan on having more children, your ring size may change again with subsequent pregnancies. Therefore, it may be wise to consider other options, such as using ring sizers or purchasing a replacement ring in a larger size that you can wear during times when your rings feel tight.

The pros and cons of wide and thin bands

When it comes to wedding bands, there are pros and cons to both wide and thin bands. Here is a detailed breakdown to help you make an informed decision:

Wide Bands:

Pros:

• Modern and Contemporary Feel: Wide bands have a modern and contemporary look and feel, especially when paired with modern settings like a bezel.
• Durability: Wider bands are more durable due to the increased surface area and can be made from a larger variety of metals.
• Unique Design Options: Wide bands offer more space for unique design work, such as fingerprint or deep channel settings, which are challenging to execute on thinner bands.

Cons:

• Cost: More metal means a higher price for the band itself, even before adding a stone or setting.
• Ring Size: Wider bands typically mean a bigger ring size, as the extra surface area makes it harder to fit comfortably over knuckles. This can also add to the cost.
• Resizing: Wider bands are harder to resize due to the increased amount of metal used in their construction.

Thin Bands:

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Thin bands are generally less expensive since they use less metal in their construction.
• Centre Stone Enhancement: Centre stones and larger side stones stand out more in a thin band, making the diamond appear larger.
• Design Options: Thin bands offer more design choices, such as twists or rope bands, which would be impractical and overwhelming on a wider band.
• Finger Size: Thin bands are better suited for those with small hands and slender fingers, as they complement dainty fingers and enhance the appearance of the diamond.
• Comfort and Ease: Thin bands are generally more comfortable and easier to put on and remove, especially for those with wider fingers or knuckles.

Cons:

• Durability: Thin bands are less durable and sturdy, making them more prone to normal wear and tear. They may not be suitable for those who work with their hands or have an active lifestyle.
• Stone Weight: The weight of larger stones can cause the thinner band to move around on the finger.
• Resizing: Thin bands are harder to resize due to the limited amount of metal available for the jeweller to work with.
• Intricate Designs: Thin bands have limited space for intricate designs or vintage-style settings, as there is less surface area to work with.

In conclusion, the choice between a wide and thin band depends on personal preferences, finger size, lifestyle, and design choices. It is essential to consider all these factors when selecting a wedding band to ensure comfort, aesthetics, and durability.

How to mix and match a wedding band with an engagement ring

There are a few things to consider when mixing and matching a wedding band with an engagement ring. Here are some tips to help you create the perfect pairing:

Confirm the size of your engagement ring

Firstly, you need to confirm the size of your engagement ring. Jewellers often do this by dropping the ring onto a sizing stick. This will help you determine whether you need to size up or down for your wedding band. It is recommended that your engagement ring should have a snug fit—not too tight, with no excessive bulging of the skin beneath the ring. If your ring is too loose, it will likely spin around on your finger. In this case, you should consider adjusting the size before choosing your wedding band.

Choose the width of your wedding band

As a general rule, it is a good idea to match the width of your wedding band to the width of your engagement ring band, particularly if you prefer a neater, more uniform look. For example, pair a thin engagement ring band with a thin wedding band. However, there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to style, so ultimately, you can choose whatever you like the look of.

Decide on the type of wedding band

There are several types of wedding bands to choose from, each creating a different look and feel. Here are some of the most popular options:

• Contoured Wedding Band: A contoured wedding band fits precisely and snugly around the shape of your engagement ring, with no gap between the two rings.
• Curved Wedding Band: A curved wedding band fits around the shape of your engagement ring but may not sit flush with the band.
• Open Wedding Band: An open wedding band fits around the stone(s) on your engagement ring but doesn't close the circle, leaving a little gap in the middle.
• Notched Wedding Band: A notched wedding band features a groove or indent to ensure a perfect fit with your engagement ring. The notch isn't visible when the two rings are worn together.
• Straight Wedding Band: A straight wedding band fits snugly behind the stone(s) on your engagement ring or sits neatly alongside it without touching.
• Stacked Wedding Bands: Stacked wedding bands involve two or more wedding bands that fit on either side of your engagement ring, creating a stack effect.
• Pointed Wedding Band: A pointed wedding band doesn't fit the shape of your engagement ring exactly but leaves plenty of space for the stones.

Select the metal for your wedding band

Traditionally, wedding bands and engagement rings are made from the same type of metal. However, mixed-metal sets are becoming increasingly popular. For example, you could pair white gold with yellow gold or mix white, yellow, and rose gold. There are no rules when it comes to metal pairings, so feel free to get creative and choose a combination that reflects your personal taste.

The average wedding band width for men and women

When it comes to wedding bands, there is no one-size-fits-all approach. The width of a wedding band is a matter of personal preference, taking into account factors such as comfort, style, and lifestyle. That being said, there are some typical sizes for wedding bands that people tend to opt for.

For women, wedding ring widths typically range from 1.6mm to 4mm. These rings often feature half sizes and ultra-thin bands, with the most popular widths being 1.6mm and 1.8mm. Thinner bands are usually more comfortable for those with small hands or thin fingers, as wider bands can look overwhelming.

Men's wedding bands tend to be wider, typically ranging from 4mm to 8mm, with 6mm being the most popular choice. This width is often recommended as a good starting point when trying on wedding bands for the first time. Narrower bands, ranging from 2mm to 6mm, are ideal for men with ring sizes under 9, while wider bands of 7mm or more are recommended for those with larger hands or ring sizes over 9. Men with larger hands may prefer a wider band to create a more masculine look, while those with slender fingers might opt for a narrower band to avoid looking overpowering.

Ultimately, the width of a wedding band is a personal choice and there is no right or wrong answer. It is important to try on different widths to see what feels comfortable and looks good.

The importance of comfort when selecting a ring

When it comes to choosing a wedding band, comfort is a crucial factor to consider. After all, your wedding band is something you'll wear every day for the rest of your life. Here are some reasons why comfort should be a top priority when selecting your wedding band:

Daily Wearability

The comfort of your wedding band is essential because you'll likely wear it daily. An uncomfortable ring can discourage you from wearing it consistently, which would be an injustice to your investment. A comfortable ring, on the other hand, will be a constant reminder of the joy and happiness associated with your special day.

Practicality

While a massive diamond or eccentric band shape might turn heads, practicality should also be considered. Your wedding band should complement your lifestyle, daily activities, and chores. It shouldn't interfere with your everyday tasks, whether you're working, cooking, or working out.

Emotional Wellbeing

Physical discomfort can impact your emotional wellbeing. An uncomfortable ring can lead to irritation and the development of negative feelings about being married. A comfortable ring, however, will forge an unbreakable bond with the wearer and serve as a symbol of the love shared between you and your partner.

Skin Allergies and Irritation

When choosing the metal for your wedding band, consider any skin allergies or sensitivities you may have. Some people are allergic to metals like nickel, so opting for hypoallergenic metals like palladium or platinum is advisable. Additionally, a comfort fit ring with a curved inner wall can reduce the risk of irritation and lower the chances of developing contact dermatitis.

Smooth Edges

Rings with sharp edges and pointy prongs can cause irritation and hinder your basic activities. Opting for a ring with smooth, secure edges will enhance your comfort and ensure the ring doesn't catch on your skin or clothing.

Correct Sizing

Ensuring your wedding band has the correct sizing is crucial for comfort. Your fingers tend to be swollen early in the morning, so getting them measured by a professional jeweller is recommended to ensure a comfortable fit at all times. Remember that your fingers may change size over time, especially if you plan to start a family, so it's essential to choose a ring that can accommodate those changes.

Frequently asked questions