Wedding Bands: What Color To Choose?

Wedding bands come in a variety of colours, with the most popular being platinum and white gold. Other options include palladium, silver, yellow gold, rose gold, and alternative metals such as tungsten carbide, which has a gunmetal colour, or cobalt, which is silver or black. Couples may choose matching bands, or rings that express their individual style.

Platinum, gold, and silver are popular choices for wedding bands

Gold and platinum are the most common metals for wedding bands, but silver is also a popular choice. Those with cool skin tones generally look best in lighter-coloured metals such as platinum, white gold, and silver, while those with warm skin tones tend to look best in warmer metals such as yellow and rose gold. Rose gold has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its soft brilliance. It has a high level of copper, which makes it very durable but can cause issues for sensitive skin.

In addition to the traditional choices of platinum, gold, and silver, there are several other metals that can be used for wedding bands. Palladium is a relative of platinum that has a similar hardness but is substantially lighter and has a paler white colour. Titanium, tungsten, and cobalt are other modern alternatives that are durable and hypoallergenic.

Rose gold is a popular option for those with warm skin tones

Wedding bands come in a variety of colours, including platinum, white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, silver, and even gunmetal. The choice of colour is a matter of personal preference, but certain colours are considered more traditional, such as yellow gold, white gold, and platinum.

Rose gold is a popular option for wedding bands, especially for those with warm skin tones. The warm, pinkish hue of rose gold is created by blending pure gold with copper alloy, resulting in a romantic and vintage-inspired appearance. This unique colour captures the love and romance of a wedding and can complement various skin tones, from fair to darker complexions.

Rose gold wedding bands are also durable and long-lasting, thanks to the addition of copper in the alloy. They are less likely to scratch than white or yellow gold and do not require rhodium plating. Additionally, rose gold wedding bands can be easily resized by a professional jeweller, ensuring a perfect fit.

The colour of rose gold is also versatile and can be paired with other metals, such as white gold or platinum, creating a stunning mixed-metal look. This allows for endless possibilities in designing a unique and personalised wedding ring stack.

Rose gold is an excellent choice for those seeking a warm-toned metal for their wedding band. It offers a subtle hue that enhances the romantic symbolism of the occasion while also providing durability and versatility.

White gold will dull over time and need replating

Wedding bands come in a variety of colours, including platinum, white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, silver, and alternative metals such as tungsten carbide, which has a gunmetal colour. When it comes to white gold, it is important to note that it will dull and yellow over time and will need replating.

White gold is an alloy made from gold and silvery-coloured metals such as nickel or palladium. Due to the presence of these other metals, white gold without any treatment can range in colour from silvery-brown to buttery yellow-grey. To give white gold its characteristic bright white colour, most white gold jewellery on the market is plated with rhodium, a rare and bright white metal. This plating process covers the original colour of the white gold, leading many people to believe that white gold is naturally silvery.

Over time, the rhodium plating on white gold jewellery will wear off, revealing the colour of the white gold underneath. This is when you will need to take your jewellery to a jeweller to have it polished and replated. The plating process involves chemical preparation and the use of electricity to fuse the rhodium to the surface of the item.

Rhodium plating not only maintains the colour of white gold jewellery but also offers additional benefits. It can help protect the jewellery from scratches and dents, and it can also prevent allergic reactions in individuals who are sensitive to nickel, one of the metals used to make white gold.

The frequency of rhodium replating depends on various factors, including the amount of usage, the type of item, and your lifestyle. For example, rhodium plating on rings will wear off more quickly than on necklaces or earrings because rings are worn on the hand and come into contact with various surfaces throughout the day. The cost of rhodium plating is typically around $35 for white gold jewellery, with larger items requiring more rhodium and, therefore, costing more.

While white gold jewellery can be maintained through replating, it is important to consider the time and inconvenience involved. Each replating process requires a trip to the jeweller and the jewellery to be scrupulously cleaned and polished beforehand. Additionally, the plating process can result in a slight loss of metal, as polishing involves scratching the surface of the metal.

In conclusion, while white gold is a popular choice for wedding bands, it is important to be aware that it will dull and require replating over time. The rhodium plating process can help maintain the colour and protect the jewellery, but it also comes with its own set of considerations, including cost and maintenance.

The width of a wedding band is a matter of personal preference

Wedding bands come in a variety of colours, including platinum, white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, palladium, silver, and alternative metals such as tungsten carbide or titanium. The colour chosen is often based on the wearer's skin tone and personal style.

When it comes to the width of a wedding band, there is no "one size fits all". The width of a wedding band is a matter of personal preference, and there are several factors to consider when making your choice. Firstly, the width of the band should complement the size of your fingers and hands. If you have small hands or thin fingers, a narrower band is usually preferable, while those with larger hands or broader body types may opt for a wider band. Wider bands, typically measuring 7mm or more, tend to be recommended for men with ring sizes over a 9, while narrower bands, approximately 2mm to 6mm, are often suggested for men with smaller fingers or those who are unaccustomed to wearing rings.

The weight and feel of the ring on your finger are also important considerations. Wider bands are heavier and can feel more obtrusive, while narrower bands are lighter and may offer a looser, more comfortable fit. Additionally, the width of the band can impact the visual appearance of the ring. Wider bands have a modern and contemporary look, while narrower bands are often associated with a classic, timeless style.

The durability of the ring is another factor influenced by its width. Wider bands tend to be more durable and can accommodate a wider range of metals, whereas narrower bands may be less sturdy and prone to normal wear and tear. The type of metal used also plays a role in durability, with softer metals like gold being more susceptible to bending or becoming misshapen if the band is too thin.

Finally, cost may be a consideration when choosing a wedding band width. Narrower bands require less metal and are therefore usually less expensive, while wider bands can be more costly due to the increased amount of metal needed.

In conclusion, the width of a wedding band is a highly personalised choice that takes into account factors such as finger size, comfort, style preferences, durability, and cost. The perfect width for your wedding band is one that strikes a balance between comfort and style, ensuring that you are happy and excited to wear your ring every day.

Diamonds and other gemstones can be added to wedding bands

Wedding bands are often chosen to match the wearer's skin tone and personal style. While some couples prefer matching bands, many also choose rings that express their personal, individual style.

There are many different gemstones to choose from, including:

• Sapphires
• Rubies
• Emeralds
• Morganite
• Tanzanite
• Topaz
• Moissanite
• Alexandrite
• Aquamarine
• Garnet
• Tourmaline
• Citrine
• Amethyst
• Pearl
• Opal
• Moonstone
• Peridot
• Agate

These gemstones can be set in a variety of metals, including:

• Platinum
• Gold (yellow, white, or rose)
• Silver
• Palladium
• Titanium
• Tungsten
• Tungsten carbide

When choosing a gemstone wedding band, it is important to consider the colour, cut, and setting of the gemstone, as well as the width and thickness of the band. It is also essential to select a durable metal that will last a lifetime, such as platinum or gold.

Frequently asked questions