Wedding Rings - How To Buy The Right One

Let’s talk wedding rings. You know, those little bands of commitment that you’ll (hopefully) be wearing every day for the rest of your life. No pressure, right? With so many styles, metals, and personalisation options out there, picking the perfect wedding ring can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a minimalist, a maximalist, or just someone who wants their ring to survive their hands-on job, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.

The Ultimate Guide To Choosing Your Wedding Ring

What Do You Need To Consider Before Wedding Ring Shopping?

1. Setting a Budget That Won’t Make You Cry

First things first, money talks. Before you start swooning over diamond-encrusted eternity bands, figure out what you’re comfortable spending. The good news? Wedding rings come in a variety of price ranges, and bespoke doesn’t have to mean bankrupt. Decide on a number that won’t have you surviving on instant noodles for the next six months, and go from there.

2. Finding a Wedding Ring Style That Speaks to You

Your wedding ring should make your heart sing every time you look at it. If you have a favourite jewellery style, modern, vintage, bold, or understated, your wedding ring should align with that aesthetic. Want something sleek and minimal? A simple platinum band might be for you. Love a bit of sparkle? Consider diamond or gemstone accents. The possibilities are endless, so take your time and explore what resonates with you.

3. Consider Personalisation Options For Your Ring

Your wedding ring should be as unique as your love story. Whether it’s engraving a meaningful phrase, adding a hidden gemstone, or even incorporating heirloom gold, the options to personalise your ring are endless. One of the coolest trends we love is fingerprint engraving. Where you literally carry a part of your partner with you at all times. Talk about sentimental value!

4. Matching Your Lifestyle

Your ring should fit seamlessly into your daily routine. If you work with your hands a lot, you might want to avoid delicate settings or soft metals. Platinum is an excellent choice for durability, while gold (especially 18k) is slightly softer. If you’re the adventurous type, a streamlined design without protruding stones might be your best bet.

5. Pairing It with Your Engagement Ring

If you have an engagement ring, your wedding band should complement it, not compete with it. A classic solitaire engagement ring pairs beautifully with a simple diamond band, while a vintage-inspired ring might call for something more ornate. The key is to make sure they sit well together and won’t cause discomfort.

6. Comfort

A wedding ring isn’t just about aesthetics. The ring also needs to feel good on your finger. Make sure you choose a band width and height that won’t get caught on everything you touch. Try on different styles and see what feels the most natural. After all, you don’t want to be fidgeting with your ring 24/7.

Put Together Your Dream Wedding Ring

Wedding Ring Metals

Not all metals are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Platinum: Durable, hypoallergenic, and luxurious, but comes with a higher price tag.
• Gold (Yellow, White, or Rose): Classic and timeless, with white gold offering a modern twist, yellow gold giving off a traditional vibe, and rose gold bringing a trendy, romantic touch.
• Silver: Affordable but softer, meaning it may require more maintenance.
• Titanium & Tungsten: Ultra-durable and modern, but not resizable.
• Choose the one that fits your style and lifestyle best.

Wedding Ring Settings

• Plain Bands: Understated, elegant, and timeless.
• Eternity Bands: Diamonds or gemstones encircle the entire ring for maximum sparkle.
• Classic Diamond Rings: A timeless favourite, whether with a single stone or a row of diamonds.
• Sapphire Wedding Rings: A bold, royal-inspired choice with vibrant blues (or other colours!)

Engraving Ideas

• Engraving your wedding ring is a small but meaningful way to personalise it. Some ideas:
• Your wedding date (so no one forgets!).
• A special phrase, lyric, or inside joke.
• Coordinates of a meaningful place.
• Each other’s initials or signatures.

Think About Sustainable & Ethical Choices

More couples than ever are prioritising ethical sourcing when it comes to their wedding rings. If sustainability is important to you, look for rings made from recycled metals and conflict-free gemstones. Many jewellers also use renewable energy and work with small, independent artisans to ensure fair wages and responsible sourcing. Doing a little research can ensure your ring is both beautiful and ethical.

Stacking Wedding Rings

Why stop at just one band? Many couples are opting for stacked wedding rings, adding anniversary or eternity bands or mixing metals for a unique look. If you love layering jewellery, consider a set that allows you to build upon your wedding ring over the years. We spoke to the experts at Taylor & Hart for all the deets!

Shop Our Selection of Wedding Rings

For Her

For Him

Your wedding ring is a forever piece, so take your time choosing something that feels right. Whether you opt for a sleek classic band, a sparkling eternity ring, or a personalised heirloom piece, the most important thing is that it reflects you. That being said, you can always upgrade your wedding or engagement ring later in life! Happy ring shopping! 

It's also worth noting that over time, your fingers may change size due to factors like weather, weight fluctuations, or even pregnancy. Make sure your ring can be resized if needed, metals like gold and platinum are easier to adjust, while tungsten cannot be resized and titanium can only be resized very slightly. Regular cleaning and occasional polishing can also help maintain your ring’s shine and prevent long-term wear and tear. Here's all our advice on cleaning your wedding rings and also how to find your ring size too!