Choosing the Perfect Band

Often wedding bands play second string to the flash of the engagement ring's center stone, but it is the wedding band that symbolizes a couple's lifelong commitment to one another. Shouldn't choosing a wedding band be as special and meaningful as picking the perfect engagement ring?

“When shopping for engagement rings, many couples get caught up in the excitement and fail to consider the wedding band,” says Robert Flude, Graduate Gemologist of the Gemological Institute of America and owner of Martin Binder Jeweler in downtown Valparaiso, Ind. “You want a wedding band that complements your engagement ring and your lifestyle.”

If you plan on wearing your band every day, “it needs to be durable,” Flude recommends. Wedding bands traditionally have been made in gold or platinum, but if your work environment or hobbies may expose your ring to damage, consider purchasing a band made from an alternative metal—cobalt, titanium, tungsten carbide or stainless steel. These metals are typically tough and relatively scratch resistant.

Some couples even choose to buy more than one band. “You may want to buy one durable band for everyday wear and another for more formal occasions,” Flude says.

FOR THE LADIES

Many women prefer to wear their wedding band on the same finger as the engagement ring, closest to the heart with the engagement ring sitting on top of the wedding band. If you choose to wear both rings on the same finger, it looks best when the two rings fit together or complement one another.

The easiest way to ensure that the wedding band will match the engagement ring is to purchase a set, two rings specifically designed to be worn together. “Many designers—including ones we carry here at the store: Ritani, Verragio and Scott Kay—design wedding sets,” Flude says.

If you opt not to buy a wedding set, choose a band that complements the engagement ring in some way, one with the same metal type, style, or size and shape of diamonds. If you fall in love with an engagement ring without a matching band, “find a jeweler that can custom design a band for you,” Flude suggests.

JUST THE GUYS

When you think of men's wedding bands do you envision a plain yellow gold, white gold or platinum ring? Men's bands now come in a range of styles and cast in a variety of metals in a range of widths. Whether you love the look of a traditional band or choose one with unique detailing, such as diamond accents or an intricate design, find a ring that matches your personal style. One caution: “Be ware of anything too trendy,” Flude says, “You want your ring to last a lifetime.”