How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Ring?

So they said yes - congratulations! Now on to your next challenge. It’s time to choose the perfect wedding ring - except this time you’re shopping for the both of you. There’s a few things to consider when shopping for a wedding band like how it will complement the engagement ring as well as your partners. Luckily we’ve compiled our best advice as jewellers on how to shop for a wedding ring to guide you through the process!

What Is the Difference Between an Engagement Ring and a Wedding Ring?

Traditionally an engagement ring is worn from the time of proposal while the wedding rings are worn by both parties from the time of ceremony onwards. Wedding rings are worn on the ‘ring finger’ (next to your pinky) on the left hand, as it was originally believed to have a vein that connected directly to the heart. Usually the engagement ring will sit stacked above or below the wedding ring. 

Wedding rings usually are less intricate than engagement rings, and often come in the form of a band to resemble an official and binding commitment to marriage. However, just because wedding bands might not feature a hero gemstone, does not mean that they have to be simple or boring. Whether you’re looking for something more masculine or feminine, there are all sorts of different wedding ring styles to suit every taste and lifestyle. 

How do I choose the right wedding band?

It’s important to find a wedding ring that sits really well with your engagement ring that also reflects your individual style and preference. To do so, you should consider the metal, style and gemstones to inform the right choice.

Traditionally, wedding bands will be made of the same metal as your engagement ring to guarantee a classic blend. However, you may also choose to mix and match metals for a unique look which creates a striking contrast. If you like the idea of matching wedding bands, choose a metal that suits both you and your partners preferences, but if you both have different tastes - don’t be afraid to break the norm! Both of you will hopefully be wearing this ring for the rest of your lives, so it’s better off you both choose the metal you’re happiest with!

Once you’ve chosen a metal, it’s time to consider what style you are after in a wedding band. Do you prefer classic wedding band styles in a flat or notched design? How about a twisted, scattered stone or irregular wave band for a more modern look? Other aesthetic considerations include if you would like your wedding band to sit ‘flush’ against your engagement ring, as in directly next to each other, or if you like a gap, or a custom ring fitted to showcase your engagement stone. For men, mokume-gane wedding bands are a unique and original choice for those who are bored of the traditional plain band. 

Depending on your preferences, you may choose to have no gemstones, opting for a minimal wedding band look made purely from metals (this is quite common for men). Or you may choose to embed gemstones or diamonds into your wedding ring for a little extra glamour. 

How do I choose a comfortable wedding ring?

Choosing a comfortable wedding ring requires knowing what ring size you are and what lifestyle needs you have. The durability of your ring metal should be a consideration if you live a fairly active lifestyle. Mokume-gane rings are incredibly versatile and durable to suit any lifestyle. Handmade by combining multiple layers of steel, gold and silver in a complex forging process to create unique patterns on the metal's surface, Mokume-gane rings are designed with strength in mind every step of the way.

Even if you use your hands frequently, you don’t have to sacrifice on sparkle - a channel set gemstone design significantly protects the stones from daily wear and tear to keep them secure.

What ring shape is most flattering?

This durable and unique ''Starry Night'' ring features our Ironbark Mokume Gane mix scattered with Diamonds, like bright stars.

The ring shape really depends on the hand of the wearer, but people with shorter fingers tend to go for a slimmer band to elongate the finger, while those with long hands might choose a wider band to make a statement. 

In a wedding band,  round-cut diamonds are the most popular diamond shape as they are universally flattering and a classic style that goes with everything. Various metal colours may look more flattering on certain skin tones i.e. white gold and sterling silver pop on pale skintones, while yellow and rose gold can really highlight warm undertones.

Booking in a conversation with an experienced jeweller on your dream wedding rings can really help you narrow down your preferences and ensure you and your partner end up with a piece to love for a lifetime.