Wedding rings are the most common symbol of marriage today. They are seen as an announcement to the world of a man and a woman’s lifelong commitment to each other.

 

Though it has been traditional for women to wear wedding rings, it is only since World War II that it has been considered fashionable for men to wear them. During the war, men began to wear wedding bands as a symbol of their love and devotion for the wife that they left at home. Now that sounds romantic... At the end of the war, the fashion continued. Though not all men choose to wear a wedding ring on a daily basis, almost all wedding ceremonies held in North America today are double ring ceremonies (one for her and one for him).

 

What should I consider when purchasing wedding rings?

When it is time to choose the wedding bands there is only one real factor to consider: personal style. Remember that this is a piece of jewellery that each partner will be wearing for the rest of his or her life. It is important that each person be comfortable with the final choice.

 

Traditionally a wedding band is a simple band made of the same material as the engagement ring. Today many engagement rings come with a matching wedding band, which helps when it is time to choose bands. It is also very common for brides and grooms to select matching wedding bands with the bride’s band being a smaller version of the groom’s.

 

What are my options?

Today there are many different options to choose from when selecting your wedding bands. Wedding bands come in a variety of metals. White and yellow gold are still two of the most popular materials but you can also choose silver, platinum or more recently titanium. Once you have selected the material your wedding band will be made you can get down to the real decisions. How thick would you like your wedding band to be? Do you prefer a plain band or would you like something with a design on it? Perhaps you would like a Celtic band? Or an Irish band? Or an antique band? You must also decide on the type of finish that you would like your ring to have: high polish, Milgrain or satin finish. Have fun looking at all the styles available and make it an enjoyable decision.

 

Where do I start?

When the time comes to make the all important wedding band decision, your best bet would be to visit your selected jeweller together. You and your fiancée will be able to view the wide range of options available to you. A professional jeweller will be able to help you select the wedding band that best suits your lifestyle and personal taste.

 

In the end, it’s not the wedding band itself that is important. What is important in what that wedding band represents: your love and devotion to each other.