This article is edited by a professional wedding consultant.

Though wedding jewelry is small, it has a significant emotional and symbolic role to play in the big picture. When shopping for the engagement and wedding rings, you should consider that the bride will have two rings (engagement and wedding) and the groom one ring (wedding). The bride and groom rings should have some similar elements, so there is an implicit unity. The bride's engagement and wedding rings should work well together, so they are easy to wear and look nice together. If the engagement (and ring) is a surprise, when it is time for the bride and groom to search for wedding rings together, a good jeweler can help match the wedding ring to the engagement ring. A custom design can make the rings look like they were originally designed together.

Platinum and gold are usually the choice for engagement and wedding rings, since they are the most precious metals, implying the preciousness of the marital union. Diamonds of course are a common choice, since they also imply preciousness and the longevity of marriage. Platinum is the same color as white gold, however is heavier (more dense) and therefore has a more noticeable weight on the hand. Gold comes in several colors - white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. Your jeweler can give you more specifics about the composition of different types of gold and coatings available (such as rhodium) to balance the metal's weight, durability, and strength.

Do you want a special sentimental touch to your wedding rings as a constant reminder of the commitment you made to each other? Include a personalized engraving on the inside of the ring. This can be your wedding vows, a poem, song verses, or some words the two of you hold dear. The processes for engraving vary, however there are two basic methods - one by hand and one by using technology (e.g. laser). Hand engraving is done using hand tools and depends on the skill of the engraver. Technology methods are more uniform and use a laser and/or mechanical tools. Some methods enable over 200 characters to be inscribed.

The Bride

Your jewelry, like the bridal headpiece and veil should be simple in relation to the gown, so the gown is not overwhelmed. As for rings, on this special day, you should wear only your engagement ring and new wedding band, when you receive it from your Groom. Your earrings should dangle very little, so they do not get tangled in anything and are not distracting from the rest of your ensemble. Your necklace choice will depend on your wedding theme, your neck, and the neckline of your wedding dress.

The Groom

Some men prefer subtle ring size and colors, while others prefer large colorful rings. Of the three gold color choices (white gold, yellow gold, rose gold) white gold is more subtle in color, so may be a good choice for men's wardrobes as a neutral color choice. A "comfort fit" sizing has a rounded shape and can be more comfortable than a flat design. Many men are not used to wearing rings, so the groom should consider what is most comfortable (size and weight) while he gets used to his ring and for daily wear - platinum may be create too heavy of a feel for a man not used to wearing a ring. Professional ring sizing ensures satisfaction of wearing the ring on a daily basis - after all, this is a lifetime ring.

The Wedding

At the wedding, an attendant generally holds the rings - this can be a ring bearer, the bridesmaid and the best man, or the officiant in some cases. If an attendant is not available, the groom can keep both wedding bands. To make sure the wedding bands do not get misplaced or lost, a good practice is to make sure the attendant or groom keeps both rings in a small jewelry pouch - a ring box may be too cumbersome and visible if kept in a pocket. If the rings are kept loosely in a person's pocket, confirm that the seams in the pocket are sealed, so the rings don't fall out.

May you find the right balance of inspirational jewelry to make your engagement, wedding, and daily life memorable and practical.

We invite you to contact Weddings of Distinction vendors to assist you with all your wedding planning.

Related Articles

Vendors that can assist you with this topic

back to top