Wedding bands are the most commonly worn piece of jewelry worn by men. Men’s wedding bands range from simple to ornate and are meant to last for many years and decades. There are many styles and types of men’s wedding bands to choose from. Selecting the right ring should be done with care and consideration, as it is meant to stand the test of time.
Whether you will choose a simple or ornate wedding band, the ring should be of high quality to ensure that it will last throughout the years. The first step in choosing your ring is to determine the style of ring you prefer.
Traditional vs. Modern
The traditional men’s wedding band has been a ring made from white or yellow gold with little or no embellishment. Some traditional bands are made from tungsten, platinum or titanium. This ring is simple and understated and can be worn in a variety of settings, from work to religious services, sporting events and social functions.
The traditional band symbolizes the never ending circle of love that is shared between the couple. The traditional men’s band is commonly found and can be purchased in any jewelry store or retailer. These can be found in a number of price points, from relatively inexpensive to prices in the thousands of dollars.
The modern band is a relatively new trend in men’s wedding band that has been gaining in popularity over the past few years. Some bands are made in onyx with silver accents; others include gemstones and diamonds, or may be accented in colors such as blue, green or gold. Men’s two tone wedding bands are a popular choice for someone looking for a contemporary style.
Modern
Modern men’s wedding bands may include personalized inscriptions, custom etching or intricate designs. The modern wedding band is usually slightly more expensive than the traditional, and can be special ordered to your specifications.
The modern ring often includes accents such as diamonds for a more radiant look. Men’s diamond wedding bands are rapidly growing in popularity, and are a great choice for someone looking for a special touch to their band. The men’s diamond wedding band can be selected to match or compliment the woman’s band and engagement ring.
Metals
Selecting the right metal for your men’s wedding band is an important step in the process. From white gold men’s wedding bands to platinum and titanium, tungsten and yellow gold, there are many types of metals to choose from. Knowing which one works best for your taste and budget is not a difficult process.
Gold
The most common metal used in wedding jewelry, gold is readily available in a wide variety of price points. Gold is available in yellow, rose and white, which resembles silver. Gold is ideal for engraving and is a very durable metal.
Platinum
One of the rarer metals, platinum offers a dramatic effect because of its brilliance and shine. Platinum is hypoallergenic, making it an attractive choice for a wide number of wearers. The downside of platinum is that it is easily scratched, and because of its rarity, is more expensive than other metals used in wedding bands.
Titanium
Titanium is a lightweight and extremely durable metal and is gaining popularity in the men’s wedding jewelry industry. Titanium has a gray color and a dull, matte finish. This metal is known for its resistance to tarnish and is also a good choice for those looking for a hypoallergenic metal.
Tungsten
Tungsten is a durable metal that is known for its resistance to tarnish and scratches. It is one of the lesser known metals, and is not as widely available as silver, gold or platinum. Tungsten is hypoallergenic and is not easily breakable. It has a darker, dull silver-like finish, and is a great choice for the buyer looking for a modern style ring.
When selecting your band, sizing is an important consideration in selecting the right ring. Jewelry stores offer ring sizing services and can help you select the right ring for the size you’re seeking. In addition, many online retailers offer guides on choosing the right size for your band. When in doubt, use one of the man’s existing rings as a general indicator of size.
Selecting the right men’s wedding band is a process that requires careful thought, consideration and education. Choosing a men’s wedding band that fits your budget as well as your style may seem daunting, but by making careful selections and allowing yourself time to select the right ring, you will find that you are satisfied with your choice. Whether you are seeking a modern or traditional ring, one with an inscription or a diamond, or simply a basic gold men’s wedding band, there are many rings to choose from and finding one should be an easy endeavor.