How To Choose The Best Wedding Bands: The Ultimate Guide

ARTICLE DATE 03/10/2023
how to pick the best wedding bands
Picking the best wedding bands

Choosing a wedding band is an important decision as it symbolizes your commitment to your partner and will be worn for years to come. It’s a piece of jewelry that has to really speak to the taste of the wearer as wedding bands are typically worn every day. And because of that daily wear, wedding bands must also be comfortable and fit flawlessly. In some cases, the wedding band has to also match the engagement ring as they’re often worn together. With all these considerations coupled with the wide assortment of styles to choose from, picking the right wedding band can feel overwhelming. Fear not, we’ve compiled a guide full of useful tips to help you choose the best wedding bands for you, your partner, or both.

Quick Tips on How to Pick the Best Wedding Bands

how to pick the best wedding bands
A matching engagement and wedding ring set

Here are some quick tips to keep in mind when picking the best wedding bands to suit you and/or your partner.

Decide on a Budget

Wedding bands come in various styles and price ranges. Determine how much you are willing to spend before you start shopping.

Consider your Lifestyle

Choose a wedding band that suits your lifestyle. If you have an active lifestyle, choose a band that is durable and can withstand daily wear and tear.

Match the Engagement Ring

If you have an engagement ring, choose a wedding band that complements the metal and style of your ring. Here are some questions to ask yourself.

  • Do you prefer yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, or platinum? Or how about a mix of metals?
  • Would a diamond wedding band or plain metal wedding band look best with your engagement ring?
  • Is your engagement ring large? If so, make sure the band isn’t so thick that the pair will be too wide to wear on your finger

Think about Fit

The width of the band should be proportional to the size of your finger. Also, consider how comfortable the band is to wear for long periods. The best wedding bands should never be too tight that you can’t wear them should your fingers swell a little (like when traveling) nor should they be too loose that it risks falling off.

Try on Different Styles

If possible, try many different styles of wedding bands to see which one looks best on your finger and if necessary, complements your engagement ring.

Personalize It

Consider adding personal touches to your wedding band, such as engraving your partner’s name or the date of your wedding.

Invest the Time

Allow enough time to choose your wedding band so that you can make an informed decision and find the perfect band that you and your partner will cherish forever. Don’t rush the process.

Best Wedding Bands for Him

how to pick the best wedding bands
Men’s Wedding Band in Platinum

Although there’s plenty of discussion about the best wedding bands for women, knowing how to choose men’s wedding bands is just as important!

Here are some tips to help you pick the best wedding bands for men:

  1. Consider his personal style: Think about the type of jewelry he typically wears and his overall fashion sense. Does he prefer classic, timeless pieces or something more trendy and contemporary?
  2. Determine the metal type: Common metal options for men’s wedding bands include gold, platinum, titanium, and tungsten. Each metal has its unique properties and advantages, so consider which one would suit your partner best.
  3. Think about the width and thickness: The width and thickness of the wedding band can affect the overall look and feel of the ring. Consider your partner’s finger size and hand shape when choosing the width and thickness of the band.
  4. Decide on any embellishments: Do you want a plain band or one with diamonds or other embellishments? Consider your partner’s personal style and taste when deciding on any additional details.
  5. Make sure it’s comfortable: Comfort is key when it comes to wedding bands, as your partner will be wearing the ring every day. Make sure the ring is comfortable to wear and fits well.
  6. Consider the durability: A wedding band is meant to last a lifetime, so it’s important to choose a durable material that can withstand everyday wear and tear.

Different Wedding Band Styles

how to pick the best wedding bands
Diamond wedding bands

There are many different wedding band styles to choose from, depending on your personal taste and the look you want to achieve. Here are some popular wedding band styles:

Classic Wedding Bands

A classic wedding band is simple and timeless, with a smooth metal surface and no embellishments. It can be made from a variety of materials, including gold, platinum, and silver.

Diamond Wedding Bands

A diamond wedding band features diamonds set into the band, either in a single row or in a pattern. This style can be subtle or more extravagant, depending on the size and number of diamonds.

An eternity wedding band has diamonds or other gemstones set all the way around the band, symbolizing the eternal nature of your love. This style can be especially stunning when paired with an engagement ring.

Vintage Wedding Bands

A vintage wedding band is inspired by antique designs and often features intricate details like filigree, engraving, or milgrain. This style can be made from a variety of materials, including platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold.

Stackable Wedding Bands

Stackable wedding bands are designed to be worn alongside other rings, either on the same finger or on different fingers. This style can be simple or embellished and can be mixed and matched to create a unique look.

Two-Tone Wedding Bands

A two-tone wedding band combines two different metals, such as gold and platinum, for a unique and eye-catching look. This style can be especially striking when the two metals are different colors.

Designer Wedding Bands

A designer wedding band is one that is made by a famous jewelry house such as Cartier, Tiffany & Co., Bulgari, Chopard, Harry Winston, Graff, and so on. Designer wedding bands are rings that are specifically crafted by skilled designers with a focus on unique designs, quality materials, and superior craftsmanship.

These rings are often made from precious metals such as gold, platinum, and palladium and may incorporate diamonds or other gemstones. The designs are typically more intricate and detailed than standard wedding bands, incorporating unique textures, patterns, and shapes to create a one-of-a-kind look.

Custom Wedding Bands

A custom wedding band is designed specifically for you and can incorporate any number of design elements, from engraved messages to unique gemstones. This style can be a great choice if you want something truly unique and personal.

History of the Wedding Bands

Valentine's Day Designer Jewelry Gifts
Cartier Love Jewelry are some of the best wedding bands

The use of wedding bands dates back thousands of years to ancient Egypt, where couples would exchange rings made from materials such as woven reeds, papyrus, and bone. The circular shape of the ring was seen as a symbol of eternity, with no beginning or end.

In ancient Rome, wedding bands were typically made of iron and worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, as it was believed that a vein in that finger led directly to the heart. This tradition continues to this day in many Western countries.

During the Middle Ages, wedding bands became more ornate, often featuring intricate engravings and gemstones. However, they were still primarily worn by women, and men did not commonly wear wedding bands until the 20th century.

In the United States, wedding bands became popular during World War II, when soldiers would wear them as a symbol of their commitment to their loved ones back home. Since then, the tradition of exchanging wedding bands has become an integral part of Western wedding ceremonies, and they are now typically made of precious metals such as gold, platinum, and silver.

Today, wedding bands come in a wide variety of styles and designs, ranging from simple, classic bands to elaborate diamond-encrusted rings. Regardless of the style, the wedding band remains a powerful symbol of love, commitment, and devotion. The best wedding bands are the ones that you and your partner will happily wear every day, forever.

Gray & Sons is proud to offer a wide selection of wedding bands, ranging from simple bands to extravagant diamond rings. We also offer a collection of luxury wedding bands made by famous jewelers like Cartier and Tiffany & Co., as well as vintage and estate jewelry. Browse our fine jewelry collection to find the best wedding bands for you and your future spouse. Alternatively, if you want to sell your wedding band, visit Sell Us Your Jewelry.

RECOMMENDED ARTICLES