Wedding rings or a wedding band is typically a finger ring that symbolizes that its wearer is now married. It’s usually forged of silver or some other precious metal and is often forged in such a way as to resemble a wedding band. While the ring may be worn on the left hand separately from the wedding finger or on the right hand in most cases (right hand rings are becoming increasingly rare and very chic), there are many variations and designs that may be worn together with your wedding bands. Some examples are:
For example, the engagement ring worn by the groom may not accompany the wedding rings worn by the bride. Many brides these days prefer a matching set of wedding rings and an engagement ring, which they can wear along with the wedding ceremony. If you opt for this option, you can choose any style of engagement ring. For example: If the bride wears an engagement ring, she may wear a wedding band that matches or overlaps it; if both sets of bands are of the same type, they can be matched; or if she chooses to wear a different band for her engagement than she does for her wedding.
Another option is to use diamonds in your wedding rings and/or engagement rings. A diamond can be set into a traditional band to provide a statement of wealth and sophistication. Or, one of the most common and elegant settings these days, a diamond solitaire ring, can be made of several smaller diamonds set side by side in a traditional setting. You may opt to have a single diamond or some on either side of the main diamond in a diamond solitaire setting, or to have your diamonds set very close to the edge of the band–these settings are also quite fancy and look extremely nice when worn with white gold engagement rings.
Traditional wedding rings can also contain other gems, though less frequently. For example, some couples choose to use platinum in their engagement rings and wedding bands. Though it has become more widely accepted in recent years, some people still opt to use gold for their engagement rings and wedding bands. The advantage of using any metal other than white gold or platinum is that you won’t need to be concerned about allergic reactions to nickel-plated or copper-plated wedding rings or engagement rings. Another advantage is that you won’t have to worry about metal being too smooth or rough-or having any kind of imperfections on the surface–a good diamond will have no flaws. With diamonds, the less-spoke the diamond, the better!
Finally, there are wedding rings and engagement rings that are worn alone. These can be simple bands of plain gold or silver, or complex and fancy designs. These are usually worn alone as a symbol of togetherness and commitment. Many people choose to wear a wedding ring with their engagement ring, but some couples don’t; they may wear a simple band on their left hand (and a diamond solitaire on their right), or they may combine the engagement and wedding rings. These bands are worn alone because they are simpler and less expensive than wedding rings with diamonds, or bands with intricate settings and engravings. They are generally worn with white gold wedding bands; if you opt for colored wedding rings, the engagement and the wedding rings must all be of the same color.
Gold, platinum, and silver are the most commonly used metals for wedding rings, although many colors of gold and silver are also used. Traditional wedding rings are still highly preferred, although recently some couples are wearing nontraditional metals such as titanium. These nontraditional bands can be made of a variety of metals, including cobalt, titanium, tungsten carbide, and even carbon fiber. Wedding rings have long been the most popular type of jewelry, but these days a wide range of styles and materials are available to create unique wedding rings and engagement rings.