Wedding Band: When To Buy For Him

Wedding bands for men come in a variety of styles, metals, and price ranges. The average price for a men's wedding ring is between $750 and $1,500, but there are options for every budget. When choosing a wedding band, it's important to consider factors such as comfort, durability, and personal style. The width of the band, the type of metal, and the shape of the edges can all affect how the ring feels on the finger. Some popular metals for men's wedding bands include platinum, gold, titanium, and tungsten. In addition to traditional metal bands, men's wedding bands can also feature diamond or gemstone accents for a unique touch.

Metal type: Platinum, gold, titanium, meteorite, etc

The type of metal you choose for your wedding band will influence the ring's durability, cost, maintenance, and overall aesthetic. Here are some of the most popular metal options for men's wedding bands:

Platinum

Platinum is a popular choice for wedding bands due to its modern look, durability, and hypoallergenic properties. It is also one of the rarest metals, making it one of the most expensive options. Platinum is denser than other metals, giving it a robust feel, and it develops a patina over time, which some people admire more than a shiny sheen. While platinum is relatively easy to resize or engrave, reshaping it requires more labour, which can add to the cost.

Gold

Gold is the traditional choice for men's wedding bands and is available in various colours, including yellow, white, and rose gold. The most common gold purities used in men's wedding bands are 10K, 14K, and 18K. Gold is a naturally light and malleable metal, so it can be bent or scratched easily. A higher karat number indicates a higher percentage of gold content, but more gold also makes the ring less durable. Gold wedding bands can be easily engraved or resized, but they may require occasional professional polishing to maintain their lustre.

Titanium

Titanium is a lightweight, durable, and hypoallergenic metal, making it a popular choice for men's wedding bands. It has a similar colour to silver but with a deeper grey hue and a natural satin finish. Titanium is challenging to work with, so there are limitations on designs and resizing options. While titanium can be engraved, the engraving will be faint. Additionally, it is harder to find jewellers willing or able to work with titanium for resizing or repairs.

Meteorite

Meteorite wedding bands are for those who want to wear a piece of space on their finger. These bands are made from pieces of meteorites and are often considered conversation starters. While meteorite bands are unique, it is important to note that they may not have the same level of durability or resizing options as other metal choices.

Other Options

Other metal options for men's wedding bands include tungsten, which is known for its strength and scratch resistance; cobalt, which has a similar appearance to shiny white gold; and stainless steel, a rigid and affordable option that resists scratches and corrosion.

Width: 4mm, 6mm, 8mm, etc

The width of a wedding band is an important factor to consider when buying a men's wedding band. The width of the band will affect the overall look and feel of the ring, and it is important to choose a width that is comfortable and suits your style.

Wedding band widths are typically measured in millimetres (mm) and commonly range from 4mm to 8mm for men's rings. Here's a guide to help you choose the right width:

4mm:

• 4mm wedding bands are considered thin and are perfect for men with smaller hands or those who are not used to wearing rings.
• They tend to be lighter in weight, fit looser, and can be more comfortable than thicker bands.
• 4mm bands are also less expensive since they use less metal.
• This width is a good choice if you want a more discreet and understated look.

6mm:

• The average width size for a men's wedding band is 6mm, making it suitable for most grooms.
• 6mm rings offer a nice balance and make a visual statement without being too flashy.
• They are comfortable, easy to wear, and tend to look good on hands of all sizes, regardless of the material.
• If you're unsure, opting for a 6mm width is a safe choice.

8mm:

• 8mm wedding bands are considered thick and are ideal for men with larger hands or those with a ring size of 12 or more.
• These bands make a bold statement and are perfect for those who want their ring to stand out.
• 8mm rings tend to feel tighter than narrower widths and are commonly purchased in modern metals.
• If you have a broad body type or want a more masculine look, an 8mm band is a good option.

Ultimately, the width you choose will depend on your personal preference and comfort level. It's a good idea to try on different widths to see what feels best and complements your style.

Weight: Heavy or light

The weight of a wedding band is an important consideration when making a purchase. The weight of the band will determine how comfortable it feels on your finger, and how it sits next to your engagement ring. The weight of the band will also determine the thickness of the band. Typically, lightweight bands are 1.3mm thick, medium bands are 1.7mm thick, and heavy bands are 2.1mm thick. However, wedding bands can range from 2mm to 8mm in thickness, so there is a wide range of options to choose from.

If you are looking for a lightweight band, you may want to opt for gold or palladium. These metals are less dense and will make the ring feel lighter. Lightweight bands are also known as low-profile bands and are usually the most affordable option as they use less metal. They are also a good choice if you don't usually wear jewellery as they are very comfortable. However, if you are planning on engraving your wedding band, a lightweight band may not be the best choice as the engraving process can weaken the structure of the ring, making it more prone to damage or breakage.

For those who prefer a heavier ring, platinum is a good option. Platinum is a dense metal that gives the ring a solid feel. Heavy-weight bands are also a good choice if you want to add inset diamonds or gemstones as they provide more room for these stones to be set effectively. Additionally, heavy-weight bands can be more affordable if you choose a lighter metal such as palladium or titanium. These metals are durable and solid-looking while being lighter in weight.

The thickness of the band will also depend on the ring size. For larger ring sizes, the metal is stretched to create the larger size, so a heavy band may not feel as thick or heavy as it would in a smaller size. It's important to consider the width of the band as well, as this will affect how comfortable it feels on your finger. A wider band may feel more comfortable to some, while a narrower band may be preferred by those with shorter fingers. Ultimately, the weight and thickness of the wedding band come down to personal preference and what feels best to the wearer.

Comfort: Fit, domed, flat, etc

When it comes to comfort, there are several factors to consider when choosing a men's wedding band. Firstly, the fit is crucial. You can choose between a Standard Fit and a Comfort Fit. Standard Fit rings are flat on the inside, while Comfort Fit rings are rounded, providing a more natural and comfortable fit. The shape of your finger will determine which type of fit is best for you.

Another aspect to consider is the width of the band. A modern look for men's wedding bands is 6-8mm, while a traditional width is around 4mm. The length of your fingers will also play a role in determining the ideal width. Men with long fingers may prefer a wider band, while those with shorter fingers might find narrower bands more comfortable.

The weight of the band is another factor that affects comfort. Platinum is a good choice if you prefer a heavier ring, as it is an incredibly dense metal. On the other hand, gold and palladium are lighter options.

Additionally, the finish of the band can impact sensory comfort. If you have sensory issues, consider a slightly domed band with a satin finish, as these features can help minimise sensory overload and allow the band to feel more natural against your skin.

Finally, the edge of the band can affect comfort. A "pipe cut" or flat band has sharp edges that can scrape your finger, so it is recommended to round these edges to prevent discomfort.

Price: $150, $480, $750 - $1,500, etc

Price: $150

At this price, you can find a men's wedding band made from silicone, which is a comfortable, lightweight, and affordable option. Silicone bands are ideal for athletes, sports enthusiasts, and men who work with their hands. They come in a wide range of styles and colours.

Price: $480

At this price point, you can find a classic 14k gold wedding band. Gold is a traditional choice for wedding bands, offering a timeless, classic look. 14k gold is a good balance of purity and durability, and it is also hypoallergenic.

Price: $750 - $1,500

Within this price range, you can find wedding bands made from precious metals such as platinum and palladium. These metals are more expensive due to their rarity and natural characteristics.

• Platinum is a dense, heavy metal that exudes luxury. It is naturally white, 95% pure, and an excellent choice for men with sensitive skin. However, it requires maintenance and may not be ideal for those who work with their hands.
• Palladium is part of the platinum family and is lightweight, hypoallergenic, and long-lasting. It retains its silvery-white sheen without requiring plating or alloys.

Additionally, within this price range, you can explore unique options such as titanium wedding bands. Titanium is a lightweight, contemporary choice that can be treated to create different colours. However, resizing or repairing titanium rings can be challenging.

Price: $1,500+

At the higher end of the price spectrum, you can find wedding bands crafted from precious metals and featuring intricate designs, custom engravings, or precious stones. Wider bands, which require more material, will also increase the cost.

You can also explore alternative materials such as meteorite, Damascus steel, or carbon fibre for a modern and distinctive look. These materials offer durability and a unique story, such as wearing a piece of space on your finger.

Frequently asked questions