Wedding Bands: Timeless Style, Smart Sale

Wedding bands are a huge part of the wedding planning process, and while engagement rings often steal the limelight, wedding bands are equally important. Traditionally, the bride (and her family) buy the groom's wedding ring, and the groom (and his family) buy the bride's. However, modern couples often decide to share the cost of the wedding rings as a symbol of unity.

There are many retailers that offer a variety of wedding band styles, from simple and timeless designs to more contemporary looks, such as wedding ring stacks. Wedding bands can be made from a range of materials, including gold (white, yellow, and rose), platinum, titanium, and silicone. Diamonds are also a popular feature of wedding bands, adding a touch of sparkle.

With so many options available, it's important to choose a wedding band that suits your personal taste and lifestyle.

Wedding bands are a symbol of love and fidelity

Over time, the meaning and symbolism of wedding bands evolved. Later, different churches promoted the use of wedding rings as a symbol of love and an elegant way to encourage fidelity within a marriage. This tradition gained traction in the West after 1940, and men also started wearing wedding bands. This shift was partly influenced by soldiers during World War II, who wore rings to remember their wives while they were away at war.

Today, wedding bands come in various styles and designs, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Couples may choose matching bands or opt for unique designs that reflect their individual personalities. The materials used for wedding bands have also expanded beyond traditional metals, now including options like platinum, lab-grown diamonds, and silicone.

The purchase of wedding bands can be a joint decision by the couple, reflecting their modern approach to marriage and their desire to share expenses equally. This decision-making process allows them to consider factors like budget, lifestyle, and personal taste when selecting the perfect rings to symbolize their love and commitment.

Wedding bands are forever, so choose a design that suits your taste

Wedding bands are a symbol of the union of marriage and, like the love between two people, they are forever. When choosing a wedding band, it's important to select a design that suits your taste and reflects your personality and lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you choose a wedding band that you'll love forever:

Start your search early:

Don't wait until the last minute to shop for your wedding band. Beginning your search three to four months before the wedding is ideal, especially if you're considering a custom design. This will give you enough time to explore different options and make a well-informed decision.

Shop with your engagement ring in mind:

While there are no strict rules, you should aim to love the way your engagement ring and wedding band look together, as you'll likely wear them as a set. It's up to you whether you want them to be a perfect match or simply complementary. Try on different wedding bands with and without your engagement ring to ensure you're happy with the overall look.

Consider your lifestyle:

Think about your daily activities and choose a wedding band that suits your lifestyle. If you have an active lifestyle or work with your hands, opt for a simple, solid gold design or a low-profile ring. If you want to incorporate sparkle into your band, consider channel-set gemstones, which offer a secure setting that can withstand daily wear and tear.

Look online for inspiration:

Scroll through celebrity rings and stunning sparklers for inspiration. Take note of the styles, characteristics, and overall vibe that resonate with you. This will give you a starting point when trying on rings and help you narrow down your options.

Attend a jewelry trunk show:

A jewelry trunk show is a great opportunity to try on pieces from designers who may not have a physical store in your area. You'll get to experience different styles in person and may even receive exclusive discounts or customization options.

Factor in your finger size:

The wedding band should fit like a second skin—not too tight and not too loose. There are various ways to measure your finger size at home, but for the most accurate results, it's best to visit a jewelry store. If your wedding band includes inlaid stones, determining the correct size is even more crucial.

Choose a width that suits your hand:

The width of the wedding band can impact its comfort and appearance. Narrower bands are generally more comfortable, especially for small hands or women's rings. The most popular width is 2.5 mm, while 3 mm bands are ideal for engraving longer texts or fingerprints. If you have thick fingers, opt for a slim design with an angular profile to break the round appearance. For small hands, a narrow ring is best, while larger hands can carry more flamboyant or extravagant options.

Don't worry about matching:

Your wedding band doesn't need to match your spouse's. While choosing coordinating bands is traditional, it's not a requirement. Feel free to express your individuality and choose a ring that suits your unique taste.

Remember, your wedding band is a lifelong purchase, so take your time, do your research, and select a design that truly speaks to you.

Diamond wedding bands are a popular choice for their timeless style and durability

Diamond wedding bands come in a variety of styles, from simple and understated to extravagant and bold. For those who want a more subtle look, a thin band with tiny diamonds or a simple pavé eternity band is a good choice. If you're looking for something with a bit more bling, consider a baguette eternity band or a ring with larger diamonds. The type of metal used can also affect the overall look of the band, with popular choices including yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, platinum, and titanium.

When choosing a diamond wedding band, it's important to consider comfort and practicality. A "comfort fit" design, where the inside of the band curves out slightly, is often the most comfortable option. It's also important to choose a ring that suits your lifestyle. If you have an active lifestyle or work with your hands, opt for a durable metal like platinum, titanium, or tungsten. If you're allergic to nickel, palladium is a hypoallergenic option.

Diamond wedding bands are a timeless choice that will never go out of style. With their durability, sparkle, and variety of styles, it's no wonder they are a popular pick for couples looking to symbolize their love and commitment.

Wedding bands can be bought online or in-store, with some retailers offering virtual try-ons

Wedding bands are an important part of the wedding planning process and, unlike engagement rings, both partners will wear one. Couples often choose to purchase their wedding bands from the same retailer as the engagement ring, but there are many options to choose from.

For those who prefer to shop in-store, there are many reputable jewellery stores that offer a wide selection of wedding bands. Macy's, for example, offers a variety of wedding band styles in different metals and with diamonds. They also provide helpful tips on how to choose the right wedding band and how to find your ring size.

When buying a wedding band, it's important to consider the type of metal, the 4Cs of diamonds (cut, colour, clarity, and carat), and whether you want a classic or more modern style. It's also important to ensure that the retailer offers a good return policy in case the ring doesn't fit or you change your mind.

It is common for couples to purchase their wedding bands together, but traditions vary

While the engagement ring often gets all the attention, wedding bands are just as important, and choosing the right one is a significant part of the wedding planning process. It is common for couples to purchase their wedding bands together, but traditions vary.

Traditional Ways

Traditionally, the bride (and her family) buy the groom's wedding ring, and the groom (and his family) buy the bride's wedding ring. If the groom and his family pay for the wedding, tradition dictates that the bride and her family pay for the wedding rings.

Modern Trends

Nowadays, many couples decide to share the cost of wedding rings as they are a symbol that will identify them both. In another scenario, the bride may offer to pay for both wedding rings to balance the cost of the engagement ring, which is usually more expensive. It is also not uncommon for a close relative of the couple to assume the cost of the wedding rings as a gift.

Wedding Band Shopping Tips

Wedding ring shopping is often left until the very end, but it is important to get the right pair as far in advance as possible as unforeseen events can arise. An honest discussion where both partners can actively participate in the selection is a great way to demystify the wedding ring issue. Staying in communication ensures that both partners feel comfortable and avoids any hard feelings or reproaches down the road.

Frequently asked questions