Wedding Bands: Choose Your Best Style

Wedding bands are a symbol of love and commitment, so choosing the right one is important. While some couples opt for matching bands, it's more common for each person to choose a band that suits their unique personality.

When it comes to women's wedding bands, there are a few options to consider. You could go for a matching bridal set, where the engagement ring and wedding band complement each other. Or you might choose an engagement ring enhancer, where the wedding band meshes seamlessly with the engagement ring. Most brides want one of these two options, but you could also select a wedding band that simply goes well with the engagement ring, rather than matching it perfectly.

For men, there are a variety of wedding band styles for every price point. Classic wedding ring styles usually feature an all-metal band that is either smooth or has a bit of texture. Curved or domed wedding bands are one of the most classic and popular men's styles. Men's wedding bands with diamond accents are another option, as are gemstone-accented bands, which can add a pop of colour.

Classic wedding bands

For those who want to add a unique touch, diamonds can be added to the classic band, with settings such as channel settings or prongs. Other adventurous metals like tantalum and titanium are also popular, especially for men's wedding bands, due to their solid and robust nature.

Classic wedding rings are typically crafted with precious metals such as gold (yellow, white, or rose) and platinum. They can be customised with different metals, engravings, or adjusted for different stone shapes and sizes. They are cherished for their timeless appeal and will never go out of style.

Matching your wedding band to your engagement ring

Metal Choice

There is no rule that says your wedding band and engagement ring have to be made of the same metal. Mixing metals and shapes can give your ring set a modern look. For example, pairing a white gold engagement ring with a yellow gold band can make your set pop and look more unique. The most common mix is a white and yellow gold set, but you can also combine white, yellow, and rose gold for a stunning effect. That being said, if you prefer a more cohesive look, you can certainly choose a wedding band in the same metal as your engagement ring.

Band Style

When selecting a band style, consider whether you want a band that sits flush against your engagement ring or if you're okay with a small gap between the two. This will depend on your engagement ring setting, as high-set rings typically sit flush against a band, while low-set rings may result in a gap. If you want a seamless fit, you can opt for a contoured or notched wedding band that is custom-made to fit the shape of your engagement ring.

Stone Shape

The shape of the centre stone in your engagement ring can help guide your choice of wedding band. Round centre stones are versatile and can be paired with any type of band. Princess-cut diamonds, on the other hand, have a unique brilliance that can be enhanced by adding round-cut stones. Cushion-cut centre stones also look great with other cushion cuts, as they have a great sparkle. For an emerald-cut diamond, consider a band with round-cut stones to add a pop of brilliance. If you have a marquise-cut diamond, a contoured band can gracefully move around the elongated stone, and a combination of round and pear-cut stones can create a pleasing design.

In conclusion, when matching your wedding band to your engagement ring, consider the metal, band style, and stone shape. Don't be afraid to mix and match, but also trust your instincts and choose a set that you love and that represents your unique relationship.

Pavé wedding bands

When selecting a pavé wedding band, it is important to consider the quality of the diamonds or gemstones used, as well as the overall design of the ring. Some pavé wedding bands feature multiple rows of pavé diamonds, while others may have unique details such as vintage-inspired swirl designs or colour stone accents.

For those who want a more subtle take on the pavé wedding band, micropavé styles feature the same setting technique but with much smaller diamonds. This creates a delicate and elegant look that still offers plenty of sparkle.

Eternity wedding bands

When selecting an eternity band, it is important to consider your lifestyle and personal requirements. Band width, material, diamond size and quality, as well as style and design, are all factors that will influence the price of the ring and its overall appearance. For instance, gold and platinum are soft metals that scratch easily, so if you plan to wear your smooth gold band against a pavé engagement ring, be prepared for some wear and tear.

If you are looking for a classic and traditional style, opt for a sleek metal band in platinum or gold, or a thread-thin diamond ring that sits right next to the engagement ring. For a more modern look, don't be afraid to mix metals and shapes. For instance, the most common mix is a combination of white and yellow gold, but you can also mix in rose gold for a stunning effect.

Eternity bands come in a variety of trendy designs, from classic to vintage and modern styles. Classic options include single-stone solitaire and eternity rings, while modern styles include glamorous halo rings. For a unique look, consider a band with unconventionally shaped diamonds, such as marquise-cut or pear-shaped diamonds, or opt for intricate detailing such as engravings and gemstone embellishments.

Men's wedding bands

Wedding bands for men come in a variety of styles, from classic to unique, and in a range of materials, including traditional metals like gold, platinum, and titanium, to more contemporary choices like silicone and meteorite. Here are some tips to help you choose the perfect men's wedding band:

Choose the Right Style

The style of the wedding band should reflect the groom's personality and taste. Classic wedding bands are typically all-metal with a smooth or slightly textured finish. For something more contemporary, consider a flat band with a rounded or flat interior, or a domed band with a rounded outside and a flat inside. If you want something unique, look for patterns, unconventional designs, or even wood or antler inlays. Gemstone accents, like diamonds or sapphires, can add a pop of colour and personality to the ring.

Select the Right Width

The average width for a men's wedding band is 6mm, but you can choose a wider or narrower band depending on your preference. Wider rings tend to be more expensive as they require more metal. Try on different widths to see what feels most comfortable.

Pick the Right Metal

The choice of metal depends on factors such as durability, hypoallergenic properties, and budget. Platinum is the most durable and hypoallergenic option, but it is also one of the most expensive. Palladium is another durable and hypoallergenic metal, but it is even rarer than platinum. Gold, whether yellow, white, or rose, is a classic choice, with white gold being a more affordable alternative to platinum. Titanium is an affordable, lightweight, and durable option. Other metals to consider include tungsten, tantalum, zirconium, and stainless steel. For those who want a simple and affordable ring for physical activities, silicone bands are a popular choice.

Consider Comfort

Look for rings with a "comfort fit", which have rounded edges and a slightly thinner profile, making them easier to slip on and off and more comfortable for those with larger knuckles.

Add a Personal Touch

Consider engraving the wedding band with a special message or the date of the wedding. Some rings also offer customisation options, allowing you to add a unique design or choose from a variety of finishes.

Frequently asked questions