Wedding Bands: The Ultimate Symbol

A wedding band is a ring that symbolises matrimony and is exchanged during the wedding ceremony. It is worn on the ring finger of the left hand and is traditionally placed before the engagement ring, closer to the wearer's heart. Wedding bands are usually simpler in design than engagement rings, and are often plain or simple in style, particularly for men. The width of wedding bands varies, with the most common widths ranging from 2mm to 8mm depending on the wearer's finger size and personal preference.

Wedding bands are worn on the left hand's ring finger, symbolising matrimony and eternal love

Wedding bands are traditionally worn on the left hand's ring finger, symbolising matrimony and eternal love. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that this finger had a vein that went straight to the heart, and the Latin name for this vein was "Vena Amoris". Although it has been proven that this vein does not exist, the tradition has persisted.

The wedding band is placed first on the left ring finger, followed by the engagement ring, which is placed on top. This is because the wedding band is seen as a symbol of the bonded commitment between partners, and so it is worn closest to the heart.

The width of a wedding band is an important consideration, as it can affect the overall look and feel of the ring. The width of a wedding band ring typically starts from 1.5mm and can go up to 20mm. Most women's wedding bands range from 1.5mm to 4mm in width, while men's wedding bands typically range from 2.5mm to 8mm.

The choice of metal is also significant, with white gold being the most popular option. Other popular choices include yellow gold, rose gold, platinum, and palladium. Couples may also choose to incorporate stones and gems, such as diamonds, sapphires, or rubies, to make their wedding bands unique.

In addition to the style and design of the wedding band, it is important to consider practical factors such as comfort, durability, and budget. The ring should be comfortable to wear and proportional to the wearer's finger size and shape. It should also be durable enough to withstand daily wear and tear, especially for those who work with their hands. Budget is also a key consideration, as the cost of the wedding band can vary depending on the metal, finger size, width, and any additional embellishments or engravings.

Wedding bands are usually simpler in design than engagement rings, often featuring a plain shank

Wedding bands are traditionally simpler in design than engagement rings, often featuring a plain shank. This is partly because wedding bands are exchanged during the wedding ceremony and are thus meant to be worn by both partners, whereas engagement rings are usually worn only by the person who was proposed to.

The wedding band is a symbol of the special bond between two people and is often designed with a plain or simple shank. This is especially true for men's wedding bands, which typically feature a plain shank and are made from a single type of metal with minimal design features. The plain shank design is also practical, as it allows the wedding band to be paired with a variety of engagement ring styles.

The simplicity of wedding bands can also be attributed to their history. The tradition of exchanging wedding bands originated in ancient times, with the Egyptians being the first to associate the vein in the ring finger of the left hand with the heart. As a result, wedding bands were placed on this finger to symbolise eternal love. Over time, the design of wedding bands evolved, with betrothal rings made from materials such as leather, bone, or ivory being replaced by metal rings. While gold and silver were worn by the wealthy, iron was the most common metal used.

Today, wedding bands continue to be a symbol of love and commitment, and their design often reflects this. The plain shank design is versatile and timeless, allowing couples to incorporate meaningful details subtly. For example, some couples may choose to include matching stones or metalwork that holds special significance for them. Additionally, the width of the band can be customised to suit the wearer's hand and finger size, with narrower bands typically ranging from 2mm to 6mm and wider bands exceeding 6mm.

In summary, wedding bands are usually simpler in design than engagement rings, often featuring a plain shank. This simplicity is rooted in the band's symbolic meaning, versatility, and ability to complement a range of engagement ring styles.

The width of a wedding band is an important consideration, with the average width ranging from 2mm to 8mm

Wedding bands come in a variety of widths, and choosing the right width is an important consideration. The width of a wedding band is measured in millimetres (mm), and the average width typically ranges from 2mm to 8mm. The width you choose will depend on several factors, including your personal preferences, finger size, and hand shape.

For women, the standard ring size in the UK is L ½, and the typical wedding band width ranges from 2mm to 4mm. A width of 2mm is considered narrow and delicate, often chosen to complement an engagement ring. A width of 2.5mm is the most popular choice, as it matches the average width of engagement rings. Wider bands, such as those measuring 3mm to 4mm, can also be chosen for a more substantial look.

For men, the standard ring size in the UK is T ½, and the typical wedding band width ranges from 4mm to 8mm. A width of 4mm is considered thin and is suitable for men with smaller hands or those who are not used to wearing rings. The average width for men's wedding bands is 6mm, which is versatile and comfortable. Wider bands, such as those measuring 7mm to 8mm, are visually impactful and suitable for men with larger hands or ring sizes.

When choosing the width of your wedding band, it is important to consider your personal style and comfort. Trying on different widths at a jewellery store can help you decide what feels and looks best on your finger. Additionally, the width of your wedding band can impact its cost, as wider bands require more precious metal and tend to be more expensive.

The height of a wedding band is also significant, with a thicker band offering more durability

The thickness of a wedding band is an important consideration when selecting the ring you'll wear for a lifetime. While style and personal preference play a significant role in the decision-making process, the height or thickness of the band also impacts the ring's durability.

A thicker wedding band offers more durability due to the increased amount of metal used in its construction. Wider bands, typically ranging from 4mm to 8mm, are recommended for individuals with larger hands or broader body types. They tend to be more suitable for those with a ring size over 9 and are often preferred by those accustomed to wearing rings. Additionally, thicker bands can accommodate more intricate designs, such as fingerprints or deep channel settings, and can be crafted from a broader range of metals.

However, it's important to note that thicker bands can be more expensive due to the increased use of precious metals. They may also require a larger ring size, as the extra surface area can make it challenging to fit comfortably over knuckles.

On the other hand, thinner wedding bands, usually ranging from 2mm to 6mm, are ideal for individuals with slender fingers or smaller ring sizes. These bands are generally more affordable and comfortable for those who are not used to wearing rings. They are also easier to resize and can showcase centre stones or larger side stones more impressively.

When choosing the thickness of your wedding band, it's essential to consider your lifestyle and daily activities. If you lead an active lifestyle or have a hands-on job, a thicker band might be preferable for added durability. However, if you prioritise comfort and ease of wear, a thinner band may be a better option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on your personal preferences and what feels best on your finger.

Couples have the freedom to choose wedding bands that reflect their unique love stories, with various styles, colours and shapes available

Wedding bands are a symbol of matrimony and are traditionally worn on the ring finger of the left hand. While classic wedding bands are simple in design, couples today have the freedom to choose from a variety of styles, colours, and shapes to reflect their unique love stories.

Classic metal wedding bands, typically crafted from platinum, titanium, stainless steel, or gold, remain a popular choice. Platinum, known for its shine and ability to develop a beautiful patina with age, is the most popular option within this style. For a more contemporary look, white gold, a combination of pure gold and other metals such as palladium or silver, is a stylish alternative. Yellow gold, a timeless choice, exudes a warm hue that enhances the sparkle of diamonds. Rose gold, a combination of gold and copper, offers a romantic, reddish hue and is another durable option.

For those who desire a bolder statement, pavé and eternity bands provide extra sparkle and flair. Pavé bands, encrusted with diamonds or gemstones, can be customised to match the stones of the wearer's engagement ring. Eternity bands feature diamonds or gemstones around the entire perimeter of the band, often in shared prong or channel settings, creating a brilliant display of shine.

In addition to the metal and gemstone choices, the width of the band can also be tailored to individual preferences. Narrow bands, typically measuring between 2mm to 6mm, are recommended for smaller hands and slender fingers, ensuring the ring does not appear overpowering. Wider bands, measuring 7mm or more, are ideal for those with larger hands or those seeking a more masculine or eye-catching look.

The shape of the band can also be customised. Dome-shaped bands offer a rounded, comfortable appearance, while flat bands feature straight edges for a sleek, contemporary look. Concave bands, with their inward-curving surfaces, present a unique, striking silhouette.

With so many options available, couples can design wedding bands that truly reflect their personalities and love stories, creating timeless symbols of their commitment.

Frequently asked questions