The Evolution Of Men's Wedding Bands

A wedding band is an important piece of jewellery for a man, often worn for the rest of his life. It is a symbol of his love and commitment and should reflect his unique personality and lifestyle. There are many styles, metals and finishes to choose from, so it can be an overwhelming process. Classic wedding bands are typically made of gold or platinum and have a simple, all-metal design. More unique bands can feature alternative metals such as tungsten, meteorite or titanium, or be set with diamonds or gemstones. The average price for a men's wedding band ranges from $750 to $1,500, but there are options to suit all budgets.

Metals and styles

When it comes to metals and styles, there are a lot of options to choose from for men's wedding bands. The most popular choices include gold, platinum, titanium, tungsten, and silver. Here's a more detailed look at each of these options:

• Gold is the most traditional option and is available in various finishes, including yellow, white, and rose gold. Higher karat golds tend to have more luster and are more tarnish-resistant. Gold is also relatively easy to resize, making it a versatile choice. However, gold tends to scratch easily, so it may not be the best option for those who work with their hands.
• Platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands due to its strength, durability, and hypoallergenic properties. It is heavier and more expensive than gold but is also scratch-resistant and tarnish-resistant. Platinum's white finish gives it a modern look, and it is easy to resize.
• Titanium is known for its strength and durability. It is the hardest natural metal and is scratch-resistant and tarnish-resistant, making it ideal for those who work with their hands. Titanium is also lightweight and comfortable to wear, especially for those who are not used to wearing jewellery. However, it is difficult to resize.
• Tungsten is a contemporary choice that is incredibly scratch-resistant and has a high luster. It is affordable, durable, and comes in various colours, such as black and white. However, it is heavy and brittle, making it impossible to resize.
• Silver is a versatile and stylish choice, known for its beauty, affordability, and durability. Sterling silver is the most common type used in jewellery. It has a lustrous white shine that complements various styles and skin tones. Silver is generally more affordable than other precious metals, making it a cost-effective option. However, silver can tarnish over time due to oxidation and may require regular cleaning.

Other metal options include palladium, which is comparable to platinum in appearance but less expensive and lighter in weight; cobalt, which resembles white gold but is harder and more lightweight; and stainless steel, a newer metal for wedding bands that is tarnish-resistant, scratch-resistant, lightweight, and hypoallergenic.

In addition to these traditional metals, some grooms may opt for alternative materials such as wood, antler, meteorite, Damascus steel, carbon fibre, or silicone. These options offer a unique and unconventional look, perfect for those who want to stand out or incorporate their interests into their wedding band.

Width

The width of a wedding band is an important consideration for men. The width can impact the comfort, style, and price of the ring. Wedding band widths are typically measured in millimetres (mm) and generally range from 4mm to 8mm for men.

A narrow wedding band is typically considered to be between 2mm and 6mm in width. These bands are recommended for men with ring sizes under 9, slender fingers, or those who have never worn a ring before. Narrow bands are often less expensive due to requiring a smaller quantity of metal.

The average width for a men's wedding band is considered to be 6mm, making it a good option for most grooms. This width tends to be comfortable, easy to wear, and visually appealing for a range of hand sizes.

A wide wedding band is typically considered to be 7mm or wider. These bands are recommended for men with larger hands, a broad body type, or those who are used to wearing rings. Wide bands tend to be more expensive due to the increased amount of metal used.

Ultimately, the perfect width for a wedding band is a matter of personal preference. It is advisable to try on different widths to determine which feels most comfortable and appeals to your style.

Cost

The cost of a wedding band for men can vary depending on the material used, the style, and the retailer. On average, men's wedding bands cost around $510, but they can range from under $200 to over $8,500.

The type of metal used is a significant factor in determining the price of a wedding band. Titanium is typically the least expensive option, while platinum is the most costly. Gold wedding bands usually range from $400 to $600, and stainless steel rings can be even cheaper, with some costing less than $100. If you're looking for a more unique option, antler wedding rings that combine sustainably sourced antler with titanium or tungsten can be an excellent choice, typically costing under $200. Wooden rings are also a natural, affordable option, often costing under $200.

Diamond rings can be a more expensive option, with prices ranging from $250 to $25000. However, adding a diamond to a ring can be a way to make it more unique and personalised. If you're looking for a more affordable stone, turquoise is a great option, with rings costing around $170 to $190.

When choosing a wedding band, it's important to consider your budget and what features are most important to you. Some retailers offer free engraving, while others charge an additional fee. It's also worth considering the warranty period offered by the retailer, as this can provide added value and peace of mind.

Skin sensitivities

Metal Sensitivity

Metal allergies are a common issue, with nickel being the most common metal to cause irritation and allergic reactions. Nickel is often found in low-cost jewellery, making it problematic for those with nickel allergies. Other metals that can cause allergies include cobalt, chromium, and zinc. It's crucial to identify metal sensitivities to avoid a lifelong wedding band that triggers rashes and hives.

Hypoallergenic Wedding Bands

To avoid skin issues, opt for a hypoallergenic wedding band. These bands contain little to no traces of potential allergens like nickel or copper. Metals considered hypoallergenic include palladium, platinum, high-karat white gold, sterling silver, stainless steel, titanium, tungsten carbide, cobalt, niobium, and 18-karat yellow gold.

Skin Patch Testing

If you suspect a metal allergy, skin patch testing is a reliable way to confirm it. This will help identify which metals you are sensitive to, ensuring you can choose a wedding band made from safe materials.

Ring Rash

Ring rash, or wedding ring dermatitis, can occur even years after wearing a ring. It is caused by an allergic reaction to the metal or a build-up of soap, moisture, or debris underneath the ring. To prevent ring rash, you can paint the inside of the ring with clear nail polish, regularly clean the ring, and practice good skin care.

Silicone Wedding Bands

Silicone wedding bands are a non-metal, synthetic option that is naturally hypoallergenic, stain-proof, fade-proof, and waterproof. They are lightweight, flexible, and affordable, making them a comfortable and low-risk alternative to traditional metal rings, especially for those with skin sensitivities.

Platinum Wedding Bands

Platinum is a popular choice for men's wedding bands due to its elegant appearance and rarity. It is hypoallergenic, dense, and pure, making it ideal for those with skin sensitivities. Platinum wedding bands require little maintenance and will not tarnish or change colour over time.

Yellow Gold Wedding Bands

Yellow gold is a classic choice for men's wedding bands and is known for its warm, rich glow. It is the most durable and hypoallergenic option within the gold family, with an average lifespan of 20-30 years.

Cobalt Wedding Bands

Cobalt is an extremely durable metal that is scratch-resistant and rarely requires replating. It is also hypoallergenic, making it a hassle-free and safe choice for men with skin sensitivities.

Maintenance

A wedding band is a piece of jewellery that symbolises a man's love and commitment to his partner. Wedding bands for men come in a variety of styles, designs, and metals, and can be purchased to match the partner's engagement ring or wedding ring.

To keep your wedding band in good condition, it is important to clean it regularly and prevent damage. The specific maintenance required will depend on the materials and finish of your ring. Some rings are best cleaned with soap and water, while others need to be kept dry to avoid tarnish or damage. Some rings can be polished for a lasting shine, while others may react poorly to polish and burnishing.

• Tungsten Steel Rings: Tungsten steel is a popular choice for wedding bands due to its durability and resistance to tarnish, scratches, oxidization, rust, and water. To clean a tungsten wedding band, simply wash it with a few drops of dish soap and warm water, and dry it thoroughly before putting it back on. If your ring has a coating, avoid using harsh chemical cleaners or polishes.
• Wood Inlay Rings: Wooden inlay rings offer a unique style and customisation options. To care for a wood inlay ring, avoid exposing it to moisture as prolonged water contact can damage the ring. Clean the ring by wiping it with a dry microfiber cloth.
• Silicone Wedding Bands: Silicone wedding bands are flexible, comfortable, safe, and wear-resistant. They are also easy to care for, as silicone is naturally waterproof and requires no polishing. Wash the ring with soap and water, and dry it before wearing. Disinfect the ring occasionally by boiling it for 20 minutes or soaking it in a solution of 1/4 cup hydrogen peroxide and 1/2 cup white vinegar for 30-40 minutes.
• Plated Rings: Plated rings are created by coating a base metal with a different metal, such as gold plating over a silver alloy core. To clean a plated ring, soak it in warm water and mild dish soap for 1-2 minutes. Avoid using polishing cloths, as they can strip away the plated coating. Keep the ring away from chlorine and everyday solvents like lotions and hair products, which can cause tarnishing and discolouration. Store gold-plated jewellery separately from other metals to prevent tarnishing.
• Titanium Metal Rings: Titanium rings are durable and can be easily cleaned with soap and water. To remove smudges and preserve shine, you can use a glass cleaner like Windex. While titanium is resistant to damage, it may sustain small scratches over time. You can use a polishing cloth or cream metal polish to restore the ring's shine, or take it to a jeweller for a professional polish.

In addition to these material-specific care tips, it is also important to ensure that your wedding band has the correct ring size and fits comfortably. You may also consider purchasing a "fancy" band for special occasions and a more durable option for everyday wear. Familiarise yourself with your ring's warranty, as many reputable vendors offer protection against damage and emergency removal.

Frequently asked questions