On the search for your perfect wedding ring? Find the beautiful, meaningful band that’s right for you to say “I do” with, as we answer your top need-to-know tips.
What’s the difference between an engagement ring and wedding ring?
Your engagement ring and wedding ring are given for two different occasions. You’ll usually receive your engagement ring when your partner proposes – although some couples prefer to choose the ring together after becoming engaged. Whereas your wedding rings will be exchanged on your wedding day itself.
In terms of design, most engagement ring styles feature a centre stone or a centre arrangement of stones, such as a solitaire diamond, a halo or cluster feature. Wedding rings, also known as wedding bands, are most often a band without a centrepiece, though they might feature unique designs, diamonds or gemstones set into the band.
If you choose to wear both your engagement ring and wedding band following your wedding day, it’s custom that your wedding ring is worn closest to the base of your finger (this is due to a traditional belief that your wedding ring should be worn closest to your heart), and your engagement ring will be stacked on top.
What’s the best way to choose a wedding ring?
To choose your perfect wedding band, consider your lifestyle, your budget, and what will best complement your engagement ring.
For those who work with their hands, have an active lifestyle, or prefer a minimalist approach to jewellery, a simple, classic band in gold, titanium, or tungsten is an ideal fit. For added radiance and detail, a diamond-set wedding band can offer a delicate or statement look to amplify the appearance of your engagement ring. Diamond wedding rings range from timeless bands, to intricate designs featuring fancy cut stones, contoured or tiara silhouettes.
With our Made for You wedding band service, you can try on a range of customisable wedding ring styles in-store to discover your perfect forever-piece, and have it crafted to order in your correct size.
Visit our fine jewellery specialists in-store, or book an appointment to explore our wedding band collections.
Should it match my engagement ring exactly?
It’s completely up to your personal taste whether your bridal rings are a perfect match or a mix of colours and/or textures.
If you love the look of a seamless match, opt for a wedding band in the same metal and caratage as your engagement ring; for instance, 14kt yellow gold. Matching your diamond shapes will also create a cohesive set; for example, if your engagement ring features a round brilliant cut diamond, pair it with a diamond wedding band featuring round brilliant cut stones.
The shape of your wedding band is another consideration. A silhouette that follows the outline of your engagement ring will create a seamless, ‘nested’ look; such as a curved wedding band with a round or oval engagement ring, or a chevron wedding band with a marquise engagement ring.
For a unique approach, consider a mix of metal colours, contrasting diamond shapes, or a wedding band silhouette that contrasts your engagement ring shape.
Do my engagement ring and wedding ring need to be the same metal?
Your engagement ring and wedding band can be in different colours of gold if you would like a unique look. However, we recommend that you keep to the same metal type and caratage.
For instance, if you have an engagement ring crafted in 14kt gold, you should ideally choose a wedding band that is also 14kt gold. This is because jewellery with different levels of gold purity will differ in hardness, and if you wear both your engagement ring and wedding ring every day, a significant difference in metal hardness could cause extra wear.
The most popular types of gold for engagement rings and wedding rings are 10kt, 14kt and 18kt. The higher the carat, the higher the percentage of pure gold in the ring’s alloy. This makes 18kt a timeless, luxurious choice; however, alloys can lend extra hardness and durability to the gold.
Should my wedding ring match my partner’s?
Matching your wedding ring to your partner’s (or not) is simply a matter of preference. If you would like matching or complimentary rings, opt for similar silhouettes in the same metal colour.
Of course, if you and your partner are drawn to different styles there is no need to match your wedding rings. They’re a symbol of your connection to each other, whether or not they look alike.
How do I ensure my wedding ring is the right size?
As your ring size will fluctuate naturally from time to time for a number of reasons, you’ll want to ensure your wedding band fits snugly (so it doesn’t slide over your knuckle) but not so tightly that you can’t easily take it on and off.
For a special ring you’ll wear for life, we always recommend you get expert advice on choosing the right size – so if you aren’t sure, book an appointment and let our expert teams help you find the perfect fit. This is particularly important for wedding bands that cannot be resized, such as titanium and tungsten bands, or eternity-style bands with diamonds set around the entire circumference.
If you prefer to shop online, there are a few ways you can find out your ring size – find more information here.
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