Things to Consider for Your Wedding Bands

You’ve said “yes,” to the big question, and he’s slipped the engagement ring on your finger. Now you have an exciting task ahead of you: choosing a wedding band! This is perhaps the most important piece of jewelry you will ever buy. It is not simply a ring, but a symbol of your commitment to each other.

You and your fiancé will probably want to pick out the wedding bands together, so that you can choose a band you both love. Here are some things to consider when choosing a wedding band to complement the engagement ring.

Size/Width

Many couples choose a wedding band that is the same width as the engagement ring. The two should at least have proportionate widths so that they are visually balanced. If your engagement ring is large, a smaller and more delicate band may pair well. On the other hand, a small engagement ring may be dwarfed by a thick band. A good rule of thumb is to pick one ring to be the focal point and use the other ring to complement it.

Style

There are various styles to choose from. Your wedding band could be vintage or modern, plain, or set with stones. Use your engagement ring as a guide. Vintage engagement rings probably look best with a vintage wedding band, and this goes for modern styles as well.

Another style consideration is how the two rings fit together. You could leave a gap between them, or make sure they fit snugly together. Depending on the shape of your engagement ring’s stone, you may need a contoured, notched, or contoured and notched band to achieve a seamless fit. Of course, you may not even wear the two rings together. In that case, you’ll want a band that stands well alone, while keeping in mind how the rings will look when worn together.

Metal

Consider the metal of your engagement ring, and if you want a wedding band metal that is matching or complementary. Either option can be stunning. A jeweler will be able to advise you on which metals complement each other. The best thing to do is go to a store in person, so you can visually compare the two rings and see how they look together. Keep in mind that if you pair different metals, one band will wear down faster, as the harder metal will rub up against the softer metal and wear it away.

Stone

You should also take into account your engagement ring’s stone. Large or unique stones serve as the focal point, so a simple wedding band may be necessary. For subtler shapes, a wedding band set with matching stones will give a cohesive look. If the engagement ring stone is colored, then you probably want to choose a matching color for the wedding band stones, although complementary colors can be a great way to make each ring stand out.

Your Personal Lifestyle

Your lifestyle is a big part of choosing the perfect wedding band. If you are very active, opt for a simpler band made of stronger metal so that it won’t be easily damaged. Pave bands set with diamonds are not a good fit for an active lifestyle, since small diamonds may fall out more easily.

Lastly, you should consider whether you and your fiancé wish to wear the same wedding band, or if you would rather pick different bands. Although couples have traditionally opted for matching bands, it is becoming more common for each to pick out a band suited to their personal tastes.

The best thing you can do while shopping for a wedding band is to visit a jewelry store in-person. A professional jeweler will be able to give you the best advice, and will assist you in finding the perfect ring for your lifestyle and taste. Remember, no matter what you choose, this band symbolizes your love for each other. The process of wedding band shopping should not be stressful, but rather an exciting time for you to bond as you plan the rest of your lives together. Once you have the perfect band picked out, you’ll have something special to cherish for years to come!