Many brides still prefer to be surprised by their engagement ring; putting their spouse-to-be in charge of shopping for engagement ring settings. This makes wedding band shopping all the more exciting because it's the bride's turn to let loose in a jewelry store.If this is you, then congratulations! This is sure to become one of your favorite memories in the entire wedding planning process. To get you started here are some easy wedding band tips, guidelines, and suggestions.
#1 Finding The Perfect FitEveryone has a different definition of what is the perfect wedding band. For some, they want a wedding band that meticulously curves around the engagement ring. While other brides, want a classic straight wedding band that can be worn with or without the engagement ring. Which bride is correct? Both!Curved wedding bands are an excellent choice for a bride wanting a cohesive look to her wedding set, where the band fits snug against the engagement ring. The biggest benefit of this wedding band is it gives you a well matched look. However, curved wedding bands look best when they are worn with the engagement ring, but are less appealing when worn on their own.Straight wedding bands can be worn with or without the engagement ring. When worn with the engagement ring, it may not fit as snug as curved wedding bands, but if you find enough common factors to coordinate with the engagement ring then the set can still look well matched. The number one benefit of a straight wedding band is that the ring can be worn on its own. While you may not envision taking your engagement ring off, life can change: family, career, and interests, leaving you less inclined to wear your rign on a daily basis.
#2 How Important Is MatchingTo match or not to match? That is the question. And, another personal choice you will need to make before you head out shopping. Here are some questions you can ask yourself to you decide:
- Do I want a matching wedding band for my engagement ring?
- Do I want the wedding band to look similar to my engagement ring?
- Do I want an eclectic looking wedding set?
- Do I want my wedding band to match my spouses?
- Do I want my wedding set to match with existing heirloom jewelry?
Depending our your response to these questions, hopefully your wedding band vision will become more clear. If not, keep reading and we will further explore the great wedding band dilemma.
#3 Yes, Quality Always CountsOne of the questions I hear most often is how come a wedding band from a local chain store is so cheap. Well, the answer lies in the question; it is cheap. A good wedding band needs to have weight, strength, and structural integrity. A thin waif-like band with barely visible prongs will not withstand daily wear and tear; your savings up front will quickly give way to a viscous cycle of repair, restoration, and replacement. Plus, a wedding band is not just a piece of jewelry, but a symbolic heirloom for generations to admire. Ask for die struck!
#4 Are You Feeling TrendyLucky for you, today's bridal market is filled with a number of great trends! They range from timeless designs to flexible styles that will match with anything. Here are a few to consider:
Stackable Wedding Bands
Stackable bands are a huge trend throughout the jewelry world, and that is good news for the bridal industry. The best way to incorporate stackable wedding bands with your set is to start with one as your wedding band and add more with each passing milestone in your new life together.
Diamond Ring Guards
This is an all around great trend! First, ring guards add extra protection to your engagement ring. Second, they can be ordered in a contrasting metal color to add a mixed metal look. Third, they come in an endless variety of shapes, designs, and motifs to add complexity to your wedding set. The list just keeps going!
Vintage Wedding Bands
The entire bridal and jewelry industry has fallen in love with vintage. From vintage style wedding gowns to receptions dripping in antique lace, and, most importantly, from vintage engagement rings to vintage wedding bands; this is a great trend for brides looking for an eclectic wedding set. Vintage wedding sets look just as beautiful matching as they do when they are mix and matched. Feel free to match your sapphire engagement ring with a hand engraved gold band or what ever else looks best.
#5 Diamond or No DiamondsLong gone are the days of diamond wedding bands vs. plain wedding bands. From gemstones to hand engraved motifs, the bridal world is full of many great options. Here are some of our favorite looks
Mixed Metal Rings
Pink and Green Gold Wedding Rings
Hand Engraved Wedding Rings
Vintage Gemstone Wedding Rings
Seamless Wedding Rings
Diamond Vintage Wedding Bands
#6 What Makes You SmileFinally, the most important factor to consider when selecting a wedding band is to choose something that just makes you smile. Follow your heart!
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