Wedding Rings
Buying a weddings ring 
or weddings band may be one of the most important purchases a man or woman can make in his or her lifetime. After all, this ring will last a lifetime. There are a few basic things to consider when choosing a wedding ring, such as comfort, size, metal, and practicality. Mostly though, your choice is going to be a personal decision of looks and style. Obviously, there is no definitive guide to which styles are the best since everyone's tastes are different.
Women's Rings
|
|
|
|
|
Traditional A solid, plain, gold or platinum wedding ring is the classic route to take. This is the perfect solution for the fuss-free bride. |
Elegant Diamond wedding bands are sparklers that have diamonds "paved" into either the whole or half outside portion of the ring. They often come as part of a set. |
Ring Sets When you want your two rings to match, you should consider the bridal set as a whole when choosing an engagement ring. |
Contoured Band Slightly rounded contour bands are often sold to as part of a set since they are meant to line up flush with an engagement ring and highlight the diamond. |
Gemstones Wedding bands with gemstones are perfect for adding color. Sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are the best stones to choose. |
Popular Metals
While silver and titanium are often used for men's rings, the only real option for women's rings are gold (preferably 18k ) or platinum. As for gold, you can choose from a wide variety of colors besides yellow, such as white, rose, bronze, peach, red, and lime. Usually white gold is the pick of choice if you want a "silver" looking ring since platinum tends to cost nearly three times as much. However, platinum is stronger and more durable.
Sizing and Fit
If you tend to be a busy man or woman, chances are that you don't want a ring that is going to get in the way. Opt for rings with a low setting and smooth edges, such as on a channel setting or traditional band, so that it won't catch on anything. Also make sure that the ring is built to complement the size of your hand. You don't want something so large that it looks overwhelming or so small that it's barely visible.
Diamond Alternatives
If you wish to have a diamond in your wedding ring, but it doesn't fall within your budget, consider other white/clear gemstones such as zircon, white sapphire, or moissanite (a very good look alike). These are all natural alternatives, while a possible synthetic to try is cubic zirconia. You might want to let your groom know that you're getting a substitute stone.
Men's Rings
It's not easy for men to choose jewelry, much less a wedding ring. To make it easy for you, take into account the following points that will guide your decision in choosing the perfect wedding ring.
- Lifestyle -- The metal a ring is made of will greatly affect its strength and durability. It is especially important to consider when buying something that you plan to wear every day for the rest of your life.
- Gold
- Gold rings scratch less easily, but the metal is softer than others. However, gold is the most popular metal around.
- Choose from 9k, 14k, or 18k yellow gold. Because 24k gold is very soft, it is usually not recommended.
- For a better looking (richer color) and longer lasting ring, go for 18k or higher.
- You might also like the look of colored golds: white, rose, bronze, peach, red, and lime.
- If you love gold, but can't fathom wearing it while working with your hands, consider getting a ring that can be worn on a chain. Any ring that does not have a intricate design can wear well on a chain.
- Titanium
- Working with your hands or playing sports can cause damage to your ring. To protect your investment from the beginning, opt for the strongest metal available: titanium. Just remember that airplane grade titanium is not easily removed in case of an accident.
- Keep in mind that these rings tend to be fairly lightweight compared to their strength.
- Titanium rings are usually not able to be resized.
- Titanium comes in a variety of colors.
- Platinum
- This is the heaviest of metals, but it is fairly dense. This can make adjustments and sizing more difficult.
- Look for 950pt, 900pt, or 850pt to ensure high quality. 900pt means that the ring is 90% platinum and 10% another metal, often iridium or ruthenium.
- Platinum happens to be quite rare, so it is nearly three times the price of gold.
- Platinum rings are rarely, if ever, plated. However, platinum can scratch easily. Fortunately, it is easy to repair, since the metal is not removed when the ring is scratched.
- Silver
- Silver is easy to tarnish, bend, and scratch.
- While fine for everyday wear, it is not a recommended metal for a wedding ring. Opt for white gold, titanium, or platinum if you want the ring to have a "silver" appearance.
- Comfort -- If a ring isn't comfortable, obviously, you will be less interested in wearing it. This can be an issue for those who aren't used to wearing rings. If that is the case, you can buy something inexpensive to try out before deciding that you want a ring or not (remember that rings aren't the only option).
- Try out a few styles of ring before committing to one.
- Depending on the size of your hand and fingers you might want a thicker or thinner band width. Usually, the narrower the band, the easier the ring is to wear.
- The inner edge of the ring should be softly rounded to provide a better, more comfortable fit. You might also be interested in a comfort fit band, one that is rounded on the inside but flat on the outside, conforming more to your finger.
- If you like a heavier ring, platinum will give you the most weight for its size. It is 60% heavier than gold.
- Your Style -- There is no sense in just picking a ring because your partner thinks it's nice or if your friend has one like it. The only way to get the right style is to consider what you would feel most comfortable in. The only time that this might not work is when you and your partner are planning to buy matching rings. Then you'll both have to compromise.
- For those who don't plan to wear their ring during the week (usually due to working conditions), it might be a good idea to look into non-traditional wedding ring styles. Since the ring won't be worn every day, it can be considered a special occasion ring; one that is a little bit more stylish, possibly with a gem or diamond inlay.
- Below, see which ring type best speaks for your style and personality.
|
|
|
|
Traditional No frilly styles or gems for you. You like to stick to the basics. A single, undecorated gold or platinum band is the perfect choice. Polished is probably the best choice, but for something more manly, go for a satin finish instead. |
Classic with a Twist Spice up your finger with a band like this (two-toned, ribbed edged, silver inlay). It keeps things simple, but it is a little different. Also try satin finishes on these styles to get a different look. |
Hi-Tech Guys You love gadgets, the newest innovations, and looking cool. Your ring should be tough and strong. Choose platinum or titanium in the style your choose. These are also great for those who work with their hands or play sports. |
Different and Daring You like to shake things up a bit, especially when it comes to style. Experiment with different colored metals, weaves, engravings, and inlays. Perhaps you'd even like a puzzle ring (three linked rings) or a jigsaw puzzle ring (looks like puzzle pieces). |
|
|
|
|
Ethnic Represent your culture with an ethnic ring. Popular styles if you are Irish are claddagh and Celtic rings. |
Nautical Men who love the ocean or sailing might like the popular wave ring or a ring featuring a rope motif. |
Elegant Diamonds Don't be afraid of diamonds if you like them. They can be big, small, a solitaire inlay, or all in a row. |
Classy Gemstones Sapphires and emeralds are popular, durable gemstones to choose for wedding rings. |
Start Shopping
Below is a list of the major brands for wedding rings. Simply click on the links to get started!
Related Guides
