Men's Wedding Bands: What's His Style?

Wedding bands for men are no longer limited to simple gold bands. Today, men's wedding bands come in a variety of styles, metals, and finishes, allowing grooms to showcase their unique personalities and tastes. From classic designs to contemporary alternatives, there is a wide range of options to suit different budgets and preferences.

When choosing a wedding band, it is important to consider factors such as width, metal type, and finish. The average width of a men's wedding band is around 6-8mm, but this can vary depending on the size of the groom's hands and fingers. Popular metal choices include traditional options like gold (white, yellow, or rose) and platinum, as well as alternative metals such as tungsten, titanium, and stainless steel. Some grooms may also opt for silicone wedding bands, which are ideal for those with sensitive skin or active lifestyles.

In terms of style, classic wedding bands typically feature smooth or textured all-metal designs, while contemporary bands may incorporate unique shapes, gemstone accents, or intricate textures. For an eco-conscious groom, ethically sourced or lab-grown diamonds and recycled metals can be a great choice.

With so many options available, grooms can now find wedding bands that truly reflect their individual style and personality.

Metals and materials

Platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands due to its visual appeal and durability. It is denser than white gold, scratch-resistant, and hypoallergenic. However, it tends to be more expensive than other metals.

Gold, in its various forms, is another classic option. White gold, for example, is gold plated in rhodium, giving it a brilliant white colour. Yellow gold is a traditional choice, emitting a subtle, warm glow. Rose gold, on the other hand, is a less common option that creates a unique vintage effect.

Palladium is a rare metal that resembles platinum but is even rarer and more expensive. Titanium, on the other hand, is an extremely lightweight and durable metal that won't fade in colour over time and is relatively affordable.

For those seeking a more contemporary look, tungsten is a popular alternative metal choice. It is known for its strength, durability, and contemporary aesthetic. Similarly, tantalum is another alternative metal that is highly durable and loved for its unique black lustre.

Meteorite is a truly distinctive metal choice for a wedding band. Each meteorite ring has a unique pattern, and this iron-based metal is often complemented with tantalum to enhance its durability.

For those who want a lightweight and hypoallergenic option, cobalt wedding rings offer a white or platinum-like colour. Stainless steel is another durable and low-maintenance option, while sterling silver is a soft and malleable metal that is prone to tarnishing and surface scratching.

Finally, for those who want a simple and affordable option, silicone wedding bands are a great choice. They are ideal for those with sensitive skin or those who want a ring that can withstand wear and tear.

Width

When it comes to wedding bands, width is an important consideration. The width of a wedding band can impact the overall look of the ring as well as its comfort on the wearer's finger.

The average width of a men's wedding band is around 6 to 8 millimeters, but they can range from 2 millimeters to 12 millimeters. The best width for an individual depends on their personal preference and the size of their hands and fingers. Those with larger hands or those who work with their hands may prefer thicker bands, which tend to be more comfortable and make a bolder statement. Thicker bands also tend to be more expensive due to the larger quantity of precious metal required. On the other hand, thinner bands are often preferred by men with smaller hands and those who are not used to wearing rings. They offer a more subtle look and are usually more affordable.

It is recommended to try on bands of different widths to determine what feels and looks best. Additionally, choosing a metal that is within your budget can help balance size and price. For example, white gold is a good alternative to platinum as it has a similar appearance but is less costly.

Price

The price of a wedding band for men depends on several factors, including the type of metal, the width of the band, the style, and whether it includes precious stones.

The type of metal is one of the most significant factors affecting the cost of a wedding band. Platinum is one of the most expensive options, known for its natural white colour and 95% purity, making it a good choice for sensitive skin. Palladium, which is in the platinum family, is also on the higher end of the cost scale. Gold, a traditional choice, also sits at the higher end of the pricing spectrum. It is often mixed with other metals to create different shades, such as yellow gold, white gold, green gold, pink gold, and rose gold. Silver is a more affordable option but is very soft and vulnerable to damage, making it more suitable for occasional wear. Other affordable alternatives include carbon fibre, titanium, steel, and silicone.

The width of the band also influences the price, as wider bands require more metal and thus come at a higher cost. Additionally, intricate styles with filigree, carvings, or custom engravings will increase the price tag.

Precious stones, such as diamonds, will also add to the overall cost, with the number and type of stones impacting the final price. Lab-created diamonds or alternative gemstones like moissanite can be more budget-friendly options.

When it comes to specific retailers, the Blue Nile Classic Wedding Ring in gold or platinum is a popular choice and offers free overnight shipping. The price of their rings ranges from under $200 to over $8,500 for intricate diamond designs. Mejuri offers a more affordable option with their Smooth Band in titanium, costing under $150, while still providing free shipping for orders over $75. For luxury options, the Jean Dousset Hayden Quarter Round Band in 18kt gold or platinum with lab-grown diamonds is a sophisticated choice, though the price is not disclosed. The Tiffany & Co. "Forever" Wedding Band costs $980, while the David Yurman Titanium Band is priced at $425.

It is important to note that the national average in the United States is around $558 for a groom's band, though prices can vary widely depending on the factors mentioned above.

Style

Metal Type

The type of metal you choose for the wedding band will impact its appearance, durability, and price. Popular metal choices include:

• Platinum: Platinum is one of the most popular choices due to its visual appeal and durability. It is denser than white gold and doesn't show scratches as easily.
• Gold: Gold comes in various colours, including white, yellow, and rose gold. Yellow gold is a timeless choice, while white gold offers a more contemporary style. Rose gold has a unique, romantic hue and is very durable.
• Titanium: Titanium is lightweight, durable, and affordable.
• Tungsten: Tungsten is known for its strength, durability, and contemporary look.
• Tantalum: Tantalum has a unique black luster that is highly resistant to surface scratching and shattering.
• Meteorite: Meteorite rings have a distinctive pattern, and no two rings are exactly the same.

Width

The average width of a men's wedding band is around 6-8 millimeters, but the best width depends on the groom's preference and hand size. Thicker bands tend to be more comfortable for men with larger hands, while thinner bands (around 1.5-3 millimeters) are better suited for those with smaller hands and thinner fingers.

Shape and Structure

The shape and structure of the wedding band can vary, with popular options including:

• Dome or D-shape: This style has a rounded appearance and is often considered more comfortable.
• Flat: A flat wedding band has no curves and straight edges.
• Concave: The concave style is the opposite of the dome, with the surface curving inward.
• Knife edge: This style has a flat inside and a pointed outside, creating a "V" shape.
• Coin edge: This style features a grooved pattern resembling a coin's edge.

Finish

The finish of the wedding band can affect its shine and appearance. Here are some popular finish options:

• High polish: This is the most popular finish, giving the ring a reflective, shiny surface.
• Matte: A matte finish has a flat, non-reflective look.
• Satin: A satin finish is similar to high polish but without the flashiness, resulting in a more understated look.
• Brush/Cross satin: This finish has a textured look without the shine of a high polish finish.
• Sandblasting: This technique creates a "rough" look on the ring with no shine or reflection.

Details and Accents

Adding details and accents to a wedding band can make it truly unique. Some options include:

• Diamonds: Diamonds can be seamlessly added to the setting or used as accent pieces.
• Milgrain: Milgrain is a technique that adds small balls of metal work to the ring, creating texture and detail.
• Carving: Carving adds substance and detail to the ring without using gemstones.

Comfort

Comfort is an essential factor to consider when choosing a wedding band. "Comfort fit" bands have rounded edges for a more comfortable fit, while "standard fit" bands have a flat inside for a closer fit. It is recommended to try on both styles to determine which one suits you best.

Comfort

When it comes to wedding bands, comfort is key. After all, this is a ring you'll be wearing every day for the rest of your life. Here are some tips to ensure your wedding band is as comfortable as it is stylish:

Fit

The fit of your wedding band is crucial to its comfort. While standard fit wedding rings are the most common type, a comfort fit is a newer option that is becoming increasingly popular among men. A comfort fit ring has a domed interior where the metal touches the finger, providing a more secure and comfortable feel. With a standard fit ring, the interior is flat, which can sometimes be less comfortable. To determine your comfort fit size, it's recommended to first find out your standard fit size and then order a half size smaller. However, for bands wider than 8mm, it's generally not advisable to go down in size as they tend to fit tighter. Ultimately, the goal is to ensure the band feels comfortable on your finger.

Width

The width of your wedding band will also impact its comfort. The modern look for men's wedding bands is 6-8mm, while a more traditional width is around 4mm. The length of your fingers should be considered when choosing the width of your band. Men with long fingers may prefer a wider band, while those with shorter fingers might opt for a narrower one.

Weight

Some men prefer a heavier ring that feels solid, while others may want a lighter ring. Platinum is a good choice if you're looking for a heavy band as it is an incredibly dense metal. For a lighter band, go for gold or palladium.

Metal

The type of metal you choose for your wedding band can also affect its comfort. Gold and tungsten are two of the most popular metals for men's wedding bands. Platinum, tantalum, cobalt, and titanium are other options, each with its own style and durability. If you have sensitive skin, consider hypoallergenic metals like platinum, titanium, or cobalt.

Texture

If you're someone who fidgets or enjoys texture, consider a wedding band with a hammered finish, a convex edge, or multiple layers. These textures will add interest and keep you loving your ring for years to come. On the other hand, if you have sensory issues, opt for a slightly domed band with a satin finish and choose lightweight metals like gold or palladium to minimise sensory overload.

Inside Fit

The inside fit of your wedding band is crucial to its comfort. A comfort-fit ring is the most comfortable option, with a slightly curved interior that feels soft against your skin. A flat or pipe-cut ring can be less comfortable, especially if the edges are not rounded, as they can scrape against your finger. A concave ring, where the band curves in, should be avoided as it can cause your finger to pinch.

Frequently asked questions