Sizing A Man's Wedding Band: How Much?

The cost of sizing a man's wedding band can vary depending on several factors, including the type of metal used, the width of the band, and any additional customisation or engraving. On average, couples spend around $558 on the groom's band, with men's wedding bands ranging in price from $30 to $1000+.

The biggest factor influencing the price is the choice of metal. Precious metals like 14K gold and platinum are typically more expensive, while alternative metals like tungsten, titanium, and silicone offer more affordable options. The width of the band also matters, as wider bands require more metal and tend to be pricier.

Additionally, personalisation options such as engravings or custom designs can increase the cost. It's worth noting that some jewellers offer complimentary engraving services, while others may charge a fee.

When budgeting for a man's wedding band, it's essential to consider factors such as style preferences, lifestyle, and finger size to ensure a comfortable and durable choice within your price range.

Metal type: Platinum, gold, tungsten, titanium, and palladium all vary in price

The cost of a wedding band for men can vary depending on the type of metal used. Platinum, gold, tungsten, titanium, and palladium are all popular choices, but they differ in price due to their unique characteristics.

Platinum is a semi-rare, silvery-white precious metal known for its strength and durability. It is one of the most luxurious and expensive options for wedding bands. Its density makes it heavier than other materials, and it requires little maintenance. Platinum is hypoallergenic and usually contains 85-95% pure platinum, with the remaining parts consisting of palladium, copper, iridium, or cobalt alloys.

Gold, specifically 14K gold, is another popular choice for wedding bands. The price of gold depends on its karat, with higher karat gold being more expensive and softer. Gold is often mixed with other metals such as copper, zinc, and silver to increase its durability. While yellow gold is the traditional choice, white gold and rose gold are also options, with rose gold being the most durable due to its higher copper content.

Tungsten is a durable and affordable option for wedding bands. It is the strongest metal available and is highly resistant to scratches and tarnishing. However, it cannot be resized due to its strength and brittleness. Tungsten is typically dark grey, white, or black and has a dense weight.

Titanium is a lightweight, durable, and hypoallergenic metal that is often used in industrial settings. It has a silver colour and is known for its strength and scratch resistance. Titanium is a more affordable alternative to platinum, but it cannot be resized and is challenging to mould into intricate designs.

Palladium is a precious metal with a silvery-white appearance and is one of the six platinum-group metals. It is slightly harder than platinum and develops a patina over time, making it resistant to scratches. Palladium is lighter in weight compared to platinum, making it a comfortable choice for a wedding band. However, it is rarer than platinum and gold, making it more challenging to find and more expensive.

In summary, the choice of metal for a man's wedding band depends on personal preferences, budget, and desired characteristics. Platinum and gold are traditional choices but come with a higher price tag, while tungsten, titanium, and palladium offer unique features at more affordable price points.

Ring width: Wider bands require more metal, making them pricier than thinner bands

The cost of resizing a man's wedding band will depend on the type of metal used and the width of the band. Wider bands will be pricier than thinner bands as they require more metal.

A typical men's wedding band width is between 6mm and 8mm, depending on the wearer's finger and hand size. A narrow band is usually defined as a width of 2mm to 6mm, while a width of 7mm or more is considered a wide band.

Narrow wedding bands are often recommended for men with ring sizes under 9, or for those with slender fingers. Wider bands, on the other hand, are usually recommended for men with larger hands, as they look more masculine. Wider bands are also a good option for men who want their wedding band to stand out.

In addition to the visual and comfort aspects, the width of the band will impact the cost. Wider bands are more expensive because they require a larger quantity of metal. So, if you're considering a wider band, keep in mind that you may need to order a larger size to accommodate your finger comfortably.

When choosing the width of your wedding band, it's important to consider your personal preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Remember that you'll be wearing this ring every day, so choose a width that you feel excited about and that suits your style and comfort level.

Ring size: Large or small fingers may require resizing, which increases costs

The cost of resizing a ring depends on several factors, including the type of metal, the complexity of the job, and the number of sizes the ring needs to go up or down. For example, resizing a ring made of gold or platinum will be more expensive than resizing a ring made of silver or tungsten due to the higher cost of the metal. Additionally, sizing a ring up will generally be more expensive than sizing it down, as adding metal to increase the ring size incurs additional costs.

Large or small fingers may require ring resizing, which can increase the overall cost of the wedding band. When it comes to men's wedding bands, the average ring size is between 6mm and 8mm in width, depending on the finger and hand size. However, this can vary depending on individual finger sizes and preferences. For those with larger hands or longer fingers, a wider band may be more appropriate, while a narrower band may be more suitable for those with smaller hands or slender fingers.

It's important to note that wider rings may require a larger finger size compared to their narrower counterparts due to the curvature of the finger bone. As the width of the ring increases, it rests closer to the larger diameter knuckle or finger joints. Therefore, individuals with larger fingers may need to consider ring resizing if their band is too narrow and uncomfortable. On the other hand, those with smaller fingers may find that a standard-sized ring is too loose and may require resizing to achieve a secure fit.

To determine the correct ring size, it is recommended to consult a competent jeweler who can use a metal finger gauge to provide an accurate measurement. Trying on different band widths is also advisable to ensure a comfortable fit, as the weight and feel of the ring are important considerations for everyday wear.

In summary, large or small fingers may require ring resizing to achieve the perfect fit. This can increase the cost of the wedding band, especially if expensive metals like gold or platinum are involved. By taking finger measurements and considering individual preferences, individuals can make informed decisions about their wedding band choices and any necessary resizing, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for their special day and beyond.

Stones: Precious stones like diamonds increase the price of a wedding band

The price of a wedding band for men can vary from $30 to $2000+, with the average price being $600. The price of the band depends on the type of metal used, the band's width, and whether it features any precious stones or gems.

Precious stones like diamonds, rubies, and sapphires increase the price of a wedding band. The more stones the band has, the more expensive it will be. The stones used for decorating men's bands may come in just one row or more. The addition of stones and gems increases the price of the band due to the increased number of precious materials used.

The type of stone used can also impact the price. For example, diamonds are more expensive than other gemstones. The carat weight, quality, and amount of diamonds will also determine the price of the ring. For instance, a 5-stone band will cost less than an eternity band, which features diamonds all the way around.

Furthermore, adding stones to a wedding band can increase the cost of resizing or repairing the ring. For example, a tungsten wedding band cannot be resized or repaired, so if the ring no longer fits due to changes in finger size, a new ring must be purchased.

Engravings: Adding an engraving can increase the cost of a wedding band

The cost of engraving a wedding band can vary depending on the complexity of the design, the type of metal, and the jeweler performing the service. Some jewelers offer complimentary engraving services, while others may charge a fee. The method of engraving, whether hand-engraved or machine-engraved, can also impact the cost.

Simple engravings consisting of letters and numbers can typically be completed within a few weeks, whereas more intricate designs may take a month or longer. It is recommended to call around to different jewelers to get quotes and turnaround times.

The cost of engraving a wedding band can range from as little as $12 to upwards of $400. The price often depends on the number of characters or letters engraved. For example, engraving 19 characters on a 2mm 14k gold band cost $18, while engraving six letters and a date cost $65.

Adding an engraving to a wedding band can be a meaningful way to personalize the ring and make it even more special. Whether it's a date, a name, or a special phrase, an engraving can transform a simple ring into a cherished keepsake.

When considering an engraving, it is important to keep in mind that the cost will vary depending on the complexity of the design and the materials used. It is always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different jewelers before making a decision. Additionally, it is crucial to allow enough time for the engraving to be completed, as it can take several weeks or even months, depending on the design.

Frequently asked questions