The Ultimate Guide To Men's Wedding Bands

A wedding band is one of the most important pieces of jewellery a man will ever own. It's an important investment, and there are countless styles to choose from. From classic gold bands to unique designs featuring dinosaur bone, there's a wedding band to reflect every man's personality and taste. The average price for a men's wedding ring ranges from $750 to $1,500, but there are no rules on how much you should spend. The most important factor is that you and your partner are comfortable with the cost.

Metal options: Platinum, gold, titanium, meteorite, and more

When it comes to men's wedding bands, there is a wide range of metal options to choose from. Each metal has its own unique look and feel, so it's important to select one that aligns with your style, preferences, and budget. Here are some of the most popular metal choices for men's wedding bands:

Platinum

Platinum is a popular choice for those seeking a timeless and durable ring. It is a rare and precious metal known for its purity, stunning appearance, and resistance to corrosion, tarnish, and scratches. Platinum's natural white colour enhances the brilliance of any gemstones or diamonds in the band. It is also dense, giving it a substantial feel that many people appreciate.

Gold

Gold is a timeless and classic choice that has been associated with luxury and elegance for centuries. It comes in various types, such as yellow gold, the most traditional option; white gold, which offers a chic look; and rose gold, known for its warm and romantic tone. Gold is a soft metal, so it may require more maintenance and is prone to scratches and dents over time, especially if it has a higher gold content.

Titanium

Titanium is known for its strength and resistance to scratches, dents, and bends, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a durable and lightweight option. It has a modern and minimalist design that appeals to many men and can be paired with other materials like carbon fibre, wood, or diamonds for a unique look. Titanium is also comfortable to wear due to its lightweight nature.

Meteorite

Meteorite wedding bands are unique and conversation-starting choices. They are made from authentic meteorites, such as the Gibeon meteorite, which has a distinct crystalline structure that cannot be found on Earth. Meteorite bands can be combined with other metals like titanium, cobalt chrome, or black zirconium to create a custom design. However, resizing a meteorite wedding band can be challenging.

Other Metals

In addition to the metals mentioned above, men's wedding bands are also available in alternative metals like tungsten, cobalt, tantalum, zirconium, and stainless steel. These metals offer a modern and stylish look, and some, like tungsten, are known for their resilience and durability.

Width: Thicker bands are ideal for larger hands

When it comes to men's wedding bands, thicker bands are ideal for grooms with larger hands or thicker, broader builds. This includes men with ring sizes larger than a size 9, men with long fingers, and those who are used to wearing sizable rings. Thicker bands are also a good option for men who want their rings to stand out on their fingers.

The width of a wedding band determines how it feels on the finger, so it's important to choose the right one. Wider bands provide more space for creative engravings or the inclusion of diamond settings, making them perfect for those who want a personalised ring. They also tend to be more durable, making them suitable for those with active lifestyles.

However, wider bands can be more expensive due to the increased amount of metal required. They may also feel too intense for first-time ring wearers, and they can be harder to fit comfortably over larger knuckles.

The ideal width for a men's wedding band is a matter of personal preference, taking into account factors such as visual styling and physical comfort. To find the right width, it's recommended to try on different rings at a local jeweller to get a sense of what feels and looks right.

Style: Classic, curved, diamond-accented, gemstone-accented, flat, domed, etc

Wedding bands for men come in a variety of styles, from classic to modern, and with various metals and finishes to choose from. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the different styles available:

Classic

The classic wedding band is a timeless and traditional option, often chosen for its sleek and elegant style. It is typically plain with no stones or carvings, featuring a smooth and curved shape. This style is usually made from gold or platinum, with a high polish finish that gives it a reflective and shiny surface.

Curved

Curved wedding bands have a slightly different shape than the classic style. Instead of a smooth and rounded surface, they feature a beveled design with etched edges, resulting in a more modern appearance. Curved bands can be made from various metals, including gold, platinum, or alternative metals like titanium.

Diamond-Accented

Diamond wedding bands for men add a touch of sparkle and elegance to the traditional band. These rings can feature a single diamond, a row of diamonds, or other unique diamond designs. The number of diamonds and their placement can vary, with some bands having diamonds seamlessly set into the metal, while others may have them as accents or centrepieces.

Gemstone-Accented

For a pop of colour and a unique flair, gemstone-accented wedding bands are a perfect choice. These rings feature brightly coloured gemstones such as sapphires, emeralds, rubies, or tourmalines. Similar to diamond bands, the gemstones can be set in various styles, adding a distinctive touch to the band.

Flat

Flat wedding bands offer a contemporary and minimalist look with straight edges and no curves. This style is often chosen by those seeking a more modern and understated appearance. Flat bands can be crafted from various metals, including traditional choices like gold and platinum, or alternative options.

Domed

Domed wedding bands, also known as high-domed rings, have a curved and rounded appearance that extends across the surface and edges of the ring. This style is considered more comfortable by some and is usually available in traditional metals such as gold and platinum.

Finish: High polish, matte, satin, brushed, sandblasted, etc

The finish of a wedding band is an important aspect to consider when choosing a men's wedding ring. The finish can affect the ring's overall look and feel, from its shine and texture to its durability and maintenance requirements. Here are some popular finish options for men's wedding bands:

High Polish

High polish is the most classic and popular finish for men's wedding rings. It gives the ring a highly reflective, shiny surface, creating a striking and attractive look. However, some metals with a high polish finish, such as white gold, can be prone to scratching.

Matte

A matte finish gives the ring a flat, non-reflective appearance. It is ideal for those who prefer a more subtle and understated look for their wedding band.

Satin

A satin finish results in a smooth and shiny surface, similar to a high polish finish. However, it does not reflect light, reducing the ring's flashiness while maintaining a sleek appearance.

Brushed/Cross Satin (Brush/Cross Satin)

A brushed or cross satin finish has a similar look to a satin finish but with a slight texture that resembles brush strokes. This finish provides a unique, textured appearance without the shine of a high polish ring.

Sandblasted

Sandblasting is a technique that creates a "rough" look on the ring's surface, giving it a unique frosted texture and absolutely no shine or reflection. This finish is perfect for those who want a ring with a bit of grit and a contemporary feel.

When choosing a finish for a men's wedding band, it's important to consider not only the desired aesthetic but also the level of maintenance required and the durability of the finish. Some finishes, like high polish, may be more prone to scratching, while others, like matte or sandblasted, can help mask surface scratches and abrasions. Ultimately, the finish selected should align with the wearer's personal style and lifestyle.

Shape: Dome, flat, concave, knife-edge, etc

The shape of a wedding band is an important consideration for men when choosing a ring that will suit their personal style and comfort preferences. The variety of options available means that men can select a shape that aligns with their unique sense of style, while also taking into account factors such as comfort, durability, and visual appeal.

One classic option is the dome-shaped wedding band. This style features a gentle curve on the outside of the ring, giving it a traditional and elegant appearance. Dome-shaped bands are often chosen for their comfort, as the curved surface allows the ring to sit comfortably on the finger. This shape also gives the ring a slightly more substantial look and feel, making it a popular choice for those who want a timeless and sophisticated symbol of their commitment.

In contrast, flat wedding bands offer a sleek and modern aesthetic. With a straight edge and no curvature, this style provides a minimalist and contemporary look. Flat bands often appeal to men who want a discreet and understated ring that blends seamlessly with their everyday style. This shape also tends to be more affordable, as it requires less metal to craft.

Concave wedding bands feature an inward curve, creating a unique and eye-catching design. This shape gives the ring a slightly more delicate appearance, adding a subtle twist to the traditional wedding band. The concave design can also provide a comfortable fit, as the curved interior may conform more closely to the natural shape of the finger.

For those seeking a bold and distinctive look, knife-edge wedding bands offer a sharp and modern aesthetic. This style features a faceted edge that resembles a knife's blade, creating a striking and contemporary statement. Knife-edge bands can be a stylish choice for men who want their wedding jewellery to make a statement, adding an edge to their overall look.

Ultimately, selecting a men's wedding band shape depends on personal taste, comfort, and the desired style impact. Whether it's the classic elegance of a dome, the modern minimalism of a flat band, the unique twist of a concave design, or the bold statement of a knife-edge ring, men can find a shape that reflects their personality and celebrates their commitment with style.

Frequently asked questions