The Ultimate Accessory
The options are endless when selecting the most significant piece of jewellery you and your partner will own. While the bride may have the easier task of matching the band to the engagement ring, the groom may be unsure of exactly what style works best. Use these simple tips to help him find the ideal ring – one he’ll be able to wear for the rest of your life together
Size and taste matter
Depending on the groom’s taste and the style of the bride’s engagement ring, matching bands may not be a given. The groom’s line of work will determine the type of metal used, the style of the band, and other options like etching or stones. Men who work with their hands will need sturdier rings than those who work in an office.
Typically, men’s bands are wider and usually range in size between three and 10 millimetres. For a balanced look, larger hands or thicker fingers will require a wider band. If he’s not used to wearing a ring, he may enjoy a comfort-fit band – one that’s rounded on the edges. Cultural traditions may also play a role in the band selection.
Different types of metals
When it comes to material, there are several options. To assist with this selection, consider the budget and the required sturdiness of the ring.
Common wedding band materials include:
- Gold – a traditional wedding band material. Lower karats mean stronger metal.
- Steel – contemporary and less expensive than precious metals. Fairly strong.
- Titanium – one of the strongest metals and a symbol of the strength of your love.
- Platinum – a luxurious, rare, and high-end metal.Styles of bands
Classic
Classic bands are usually rounded, highly polished 14 or 18 karat yellow gold. The higher the karats in a gold band, the softer the metal will be. A lower karat count will keep a ring from warping or bending while performing physical labour.
Two-tone
Two-tone bands – a combination of two different colours of metal – symbolize the unity of husband and wife. Generally, two-tone bands are a combination of white and yellow gold, but rose gold and platinum are also available.
Etching
Etched bands feature designs and patterns carved into metal. Common designs include knot-work, filigree and milgrain (etched borders).
Stones
Many men select dark stones, such as onyx (black), ruby (red), or sapphire (blue), but diamonds and topaz (which come in a variety of colours) are also popular.
Engraving
Many couples choose to have their bands engraved with their initials and their wedding date (a perfect anniversary reminder!); while others choose a line from a favourite poem or song. A jeweller can determine how much text will fit inside a band, what font will work and look best, and if the engraver can handle special requests for lettering in different languages.
The perfect wedding band will be a piece of jewellery he’s proud to own and wear. W
