Are you getting married soon? Then, you’re going to need wedding rings! These pieces of jewelry symbolize the eternal love you’ll be sharing with your partner for the rest of your lives. So, you’d want to choose the right ones.
But how do you select one based on your style? With so many designs available, it can be a bit tough to choose. That’s where this guide comes in. Read on for some practical tips to help you pick wedding bands that suit you and your future spouse.
Defining Your Style
The first thing you should do is figure out what your style is. Are you a minimalist? Or do you prefer a bit of extravagance? One way you can determine your style is by checking your wardrobe; your everyday clothing can tell a lot about what you enjoy wearing. Pay attention to the jewelry you often wear, too. Maybe you gravitate more toward a certain color or have a preference for a particular metal.
Knowing your personal style goes a long way in helping you narrow your choice, especially since womens wedding bands come in a range of designs from simple to statement. Reputable providers will have various high-quality options for you to choose from, so you don’t have to worry about poorly made rings that tarnish quickly.
Once you’ve identified your style, start gathering inspiration. For instance, you can create Pinterest boards, follow jewelry designers and wedding bloggers on Instagram, or browse wedding magazines for ideas. This way, you’ll be able to visualize different styles and find bands that align with your vision.
Don’t forget to ask your partner about their preferences, too. Men’s wedding bands may also come in different styles, and your partner might want to match theirs with yours or have a distinct design altogether.
Choosing the Right Metal
The metal selection for your wedding bands will significantly impact their overall look and feel. Popular options include the following:
- Platinum is a durable, hypoallergenic metal with a timeless luster. Many people consider it the most luxurious choice.
- Gold is available in various colors (white, yellow, rose) and gives your wedding band a classic look. Yellow gold is a traditional option, while white gold and rose gold are more modern alternatives.
- Silver is a more budget-friendly option that offers a versatile and understated look. However, it may require more maintenance over time.
When selecting a metal, think about your lifestyle, budget, and personal preferences. If you have sensitive skin, platinum may be a better choice. If you’re looking for a classic style, gold might be the way to go. And if you prefer a more modern and affordable option, silver could be a great choice.
Why not match the metal in your wedding band to the one in your engagement ring? According to a survey, nearly two in five engagement rings purchased in 2023 were made of white gold. If you’re up for it, you can choose matching wedding bands and engagement rings in white gold to continue the trend, too. (1)
Selecting the Perfect Gemstone
If a minimalist, plain metal band isn’t your thing, consider including gemstones; they can add color, sparkle, and personal meaning to your wedding bands. Here are some popular options:
- Diamonds: Timeless and classic, diamonds symbolize love, commitment, and eternity.
- Sapphires: Available in various colors, including blue, pink, and yellow, sapphires are known for their durability and beauty.
- Rubies: Rubies are the gemstone of passion and vitality, and they are prized for their intense red color.
- Emeralds: Emeralds are often associated with spring and new beginnings and symbolize wisdom, growth, and rebirth.
Besides the gemstone’s meaning, color, and durability, ethical sourcing has also become a priority for many modern couples. Lab-grown diamonds, in particular, are gaining popularity. A significant 70% of millennial couples are opting for these eco-friendly alternatives in their wedding and engagement rings; this trend reflects a growing awareness of sustainability in the jewelry industry. (2)
Designing Your Dream Wedding Band
After deciding on a gemstone and metal, you can proceed to design your wedding bands. You have two options: customizing or buying off-the-rack.
Custom-Designed Wedding Bands
If you have a specific vision in mind, custom design offers the flexibility to create a truly unique piece. You can work with a jeweler to incorporate personal elements like engravings, milgrain (the delicate, textured edging), or different shapes. Customizing is also a great option to consider if you also designed your engagement ring.
Pre-Made Wedding Bands
Pre-made wedding rings offer a wide range of styles and options for those seeking convenience and affordability. You can still personalize them with custom settings or engravings, such as your and your partner’s names.
What’s most important is that your wedding bands are in a style that won’t make you tired of looking at them. They should also fit! A too-tight or too-loose ring, even if it has a lovely design, won’t be comfortable to wear.
Setting a Budget and Finding a Jeweler
Before you start shopping for wedding bands, it’s important to set a budget. Retail wedding rings may cost around USD $700 to USD $1,200, while custom-made ones could be up to USD $2,000. (3)
A wedding ring is a long-term investment, so it makes sense to invest in a good-quality piece you’ll be wearing and loving for many years. However, it’s still wise to consider your overall wedding costs and prioritize your spending accordingly.
Lastly, find and work with a trusted and professional jeweler. If you’re lacking immediate options, ask for recommendations from friends, family, or wedding vendors. Read reviews and testimonials online, too, to determine if the recommendations made to you are valid. Additionally, look for jewelers with certifications from organizations like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). That’s how you’ll know they’re the real deal.
Wrapping Up
Wedding plans can be quite stressful, so don’t pressure yourself when it comes to choosing your wedding bands. Look at your preferences in clothing or your existing jewelry; you may find your answers there to help you decide on the perfect rings that reflect your style.
Then, feel free to explore metal and gemstone options until you find the right fit for your tastes and budget. Eventually, you’ll encounter the piece that checks all of your boxes.
Just enjoy the process! Your wedding rings symbolize you and your partner’s love and commitment to each other, so choose something that you’ll cherish forever.
