Wedding Band Blunders: Impracticality

When it comes to wedding bands, there are a plethora of options available, from traditional metal bands to more contemporary alternatives. However, some bands are considered impractical for a variety of reasons. For instance, emeralds are soft and won't withstand daily wear and tear, while pavé diamonds tend to fall out over time. Additionally, certain jobs or lifestyles may make wearing a traditional ring impractical or unpleasant, leading some individuals to opt for alternative types of jewellery or no outward symbol of their union at all. Furthermore, traditional rules surrounding wedding bands, such as the expectation that the man pays for the rings, may be impractical for modern couples who share financial responsibilities. Finally, certain ring designs, such as hinged bands, may be impractical due to their high cost or bulky appearance.

Emeralds are soft and impractical for daily wear

Emeralds are beautiful gemstones that are coveted for their eye-catching green hue. While they are durable, they are softer than other gemstones and may not be suitable for daily wear.

On the Mohs Hardness Scale, the universally accepted scale for the toughness of a gemstone, emeralds rank between 7.5 and 8. While this indicates that emeralds are fairly durable, they are not as tough as diamonds, which score a 10, or rubies and sapphires, which also score higher.

Emeralds are a variety of the mineral species beryl and, due to their natural inclusions, are very brittle and can easily break if they experience a strong blow. These inclusions are called the emerald's "jardin" or "garden". While some surface-reaching inclusions are normal, they do make the stone vulnerable to chipping. Therefore, if you are set on wearing an emerald ring daily, it is recommended to choose a protective setting, such as a bezel or halo, that surrounds the entire circumference of the gem with a metal rim to provide all-around protection.

Additionally, most emeralds are treated with an oil filler for clarity, which means they cannot be cleaned using any type of jewellery cleaning machine as these may damage the emerald and remove the oil filler. Instead, it is recommended to clean emeralds with warm, soapy water and a soft toothbrush, and to take them to a professional jeweller for in-depth cleaning and inspection at least once or twice a year.

Overall, while emeralds are durable enough for daily wear if treated with care, they are softer and more brittle than other gemstones, making them impractical for those who do not want to worry about their jewellery sustaining damage or requiring extra maintenance.

Pavé diamonds fall out over time

Pavé diamonds are small gems that are set close together to create a continuous line of sparkle. While they are popular, especially for wedding and engagement rings, they are prone to falling out over time. This is because they are often set with less glue and less pressure than larger diamonds, and the small prongs holding them can easily be bent by inadvertent knocks.

The good news is that, because they are so small, lost pavé diamonds are hard to spot, and repairs are usually cheap and easy. To prevent loss, regular check-ups at a jewellery store are recommended, as well as keeping the ring steady and safe when it is not being worn. It is also best not to wear rings with pavé diamonds often or during vigorous activity, as this can loosen the diamonds and make them more likely to fall out.

If you do have a ring with pavé diamonds, it is important to be vigilant for loose stones. You can do this by gently pushing on the diamonds to check for any movement. If there is even a slight movement, you should get the ring tightened by a jeweller. It is also worth noting that some jewellery stores offer gem replacement policies for rings with pavé settings, so it is worth asking about this when making a purchase.

Large knuckles and skinny fingers make a solid band impractical

Large knuckles and skinny fingers can make it challenging to find a well-fitting wedding band. A solid band that slides over the knuckle may feel loose and not fit properly on the finger. Conversely, a smaller band that fits snugly on the finger may be difficult to get over the knuckle and cause inflammation.

There are several solutions to this problem. One option is to choose a ring with a pronounced court shape on the inside, featuring a rounded surface that glides more easily over the knuckle than a flat interior surface. A slim band with a comfort fit is also easier to put on and feels more comfortable. Wider bands fit tighter, so a slim band in the same finger size will feel looser in comparison.

Another option is to add small pips or sizing beads to the inside of the ring. These can help the ring fit more securely on the finger without feeling too tight over the knuckle. However, this method may require some modification to get the size of the pips just right and may not work for all ring designs.

Hinged rings are another alternative for those with large knuckles and skinny fingers. These rings open up and close around the finger, eliminating the need to slide them over the knuckle. While this option can be more expensive, it offers a permanent and comfortable solution.

Additionally, some people choose to wear their wedding ring on their right hand if their left-hand knuckle is enlarged due to an injury. This allows for a better fit and prioritises comfort over tradition.

It's impractical for the man to pay for the rings alone

While the wedding band is a symbol of a couple's commitment to each other, it is impractical to expect the man to pay for the rings alone. Here are several reasons why:

Firstly, the wedding band is not just a symbol of the man's commitment, but also of the woman's. It is a mutual pledge, and as such, it makes sense for both parties to contribute financially. This way, the rings become a true symbol of their unity and shared intention to build a life together.

Secondly, wedding bands can be expensive. With the average cost of weddings rising, it can be a significant financial burden for one person to bear alone. This is especially true if the couple is already facing financial constraints or if the man is the sole breadwinner. In such cases, it is only practical that the woman contributes to the cost of the rings as well.

Thirdly, modern relationships are often based on equality and shared responsibilities. In many cases, both partners have careers and financial independence. In such scenarios, it is only fair that the woman contributes financially to the wedding bands, which represent their mutual love and commitment.

Additionally, the tradition of the man paying for the wedding bands may have stemmed from a time when gender roles were more defined, and men were typically the primary breadwinners. However, with the evolution of gender dynamics and a shift towards more progressive values, this tradition may no longer align with modern couples' beliefs and lifestyles.

Finally, by contributing to the cost of the wedding bands, both partners can feel more involved and invested in the process of choosing and purchasing the rings. This shared experience can strengthen their bond and make the wedding bands even more meaningful.

Tungsten rings cannot be resized by conventional means

Tungsten rings are known for their durability and resistance to scratches. However, this very feature that makes them attractive also poses challenges when it comes to resizing.

The hardness of tungsten carbide, the most common form of tungsten used in jewellery, makes adjustments difficult. Unlike gold or silver rings, tungsten rings cannot be melted down and reshaped using conventional methods. Traditional techniques of cutting, soldering, and stretching are typically ineffective on tungsten due to its extreme hardness and brittleness. Attempting to resize a tungsten ring using these methods can result in the ring breaking or cracking.

As a result, resizing a tungsten ring often involves exchanging it for a new ring in the desired size. Some jewellers offer sizing services or warranties that include size exchanges, allowing customers to replace their ring with one that fits correctly. It is crucial to select the correct size initially or opt for a ring with a warranty covering resizing to avoid the inconvenience of an ill-fitting ring.

While tungsten rings offer exceptional durability and scratch resistance, their inability to be resized using traditional methods is a notable drawback. This limitation underscores the importance of choosing the right size and working with reputable jewellers who provide resizing options or warranties.

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