Our Guide To Choosing Your Wedding Rings
How to choose wedding rings: matching sets, complementary pairs, bespoke designs, and more.
The engagement ring might capture all the attention, but a wedding ring should never be an afterthought.
Not only are your wedding bands an integral part of the ceremony itself, they’re a symbol of the commitment you and your partner have chosen to make to each other.
This is an item of jewellery that will hold more meaning than any other piece you’ll own, and its significance will only grow with time.
Not sure where to begin? We’ve collated everything we’ve learnt about how to choose the perfect wedding ring over our 50 years in the business to make this decision almost as easy to make as your choice in partner. Read on.
Firstly… to match or not to match?
Whether you’d like your wedding rings to match is entirely up to you.
A matching set of near identical rings creates a symbolic link between you, but it is possible to achieve the same sentiment with a contrasting yet complementary pair. Think matching gold bands with a set of diamonds in just one, or different bands altogether with matching inscriptions.
We do recommend matching your wedding ring to your engagement ring as best you can. They’ll likely be worn together and mismatched metals or diamonds can rub against each other, weakening the softer of the two over time.
Of course if you have a gold engagement ring, you’ll have the choice of a white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold band if you like to mix and match.
Things to consider when choosing your wedding rings
Your wedding ring will be worn every day for the rest of your life. It’s crucial to choose a ring that fits into your daily life: not the other way around.
You don’t want your ring to be uncomfortable, loose, or get things caught in it either. Remember, your fingers will shrink in the cold and swell in the heat too, so your ring needs to be snug enough that it won’t come off in the winter or get stuck in the summer.
Your lifestyle is important
Do you work with your hands? You’ll need something durable that can hold up to the odd bump or knock. Do you like to experiment with jewellery (or hope to receive an infinity ring one day)? Consider something stackable that you can add to.
Your lifestyle will inform the following choices:
Thickness
The thickness is determined by how thick the wall of the ring is (as seen when resting on its side). The thinner the ring, the more susceptible it is to bending. 1.5-1.8mm is generally considered the minimum, though rings with stones or inscriptions will need to be thicker.
Essentially, the thicker the ring the higher it sits above your skin, and the higher the ring the more likely it is to be knocked. Your ring should be thick enough that it won’t bend with everyday wear, but not so thick that it protrudes too far and causes inconvenience for you.
Width
The width is the length of the finger that is covered by the ring. Most ladies’ rings are 2-4mm wide, whilst men’s rings are 4-8mm wide.
If you plan to wear your engagement ring with your wedding ring each day, you’ll need to consider the width of the two together.
Profile
The profile is the shape of the ring. Most rings are at least slightly rounded on the inside for ease of wear, whilst the outside can be either flat, round, bevelled or domed.
A flatter band is generally considered more practical if your occupation is physical in nature.
Metal
Stick to 18ct gold or platinum metals wherever possible. They’re far more durable than silver, which will bend out of shape in time.
Most importantly, choose the metal that suits you best, not your partner. If you exclusively wear gold, make it gold. If you only wear silver, white gold is a beautiful and far more durable alternative. There are other ways to link the two rings together if your favoured metals differ.
Refined radiance: The 18ct white gold princess cut diamond ring.
Tantalum is unique for its density and durability, making it a great alternative to platinum.
Style
Traditional or modern? Sentimental or classically romantic? Choose the piece that resonates most with you and your day-to-day style, and have fun.
Classic choices
There’s a lot to love about a classic wedding ring. It’s timeless, easy to rework, and complements rather than competes with an engagement ring.
The circular shape of the classic wedding ring—a symbol of eternal love with no beginning and no end—takes centre stage here.
Also available in a wider men’s style.
Unique finishes
For those that are fans of simplicity but need a little more wow factor, consider a unique finish rather than the typical polish. Satin, buffed, brushed, and textured are particularly popular finishes for men.
The textured surface of the Cottesloe Reef ring is the perfect choice for ocean lovers.
Bevelled edges highlight the satin finish in the centre of this masculine yet elegant band.
Diamonds and gems
Who says diamonds are only for engagements? If you went without an engagement ring or have a grander, heirloom piece you won’t wear every day, add sparkle with your wedding ring instead.
The channel set diamond ring oozes vintage decadence.
Not just hers: his too. A diamond set in the centre groove provides style, comfort, and durability.
Not just diamonds: alternating royal blue sapphires are as romantic as they are regal.
Eternity bands
Eternity or ‘infinity’ rings are commonly given as an anniversary gift, but there’s no need to play by the rules. Besides, what is a wedding ring if not an eternity ring?
This emerald cut diamond eternity ring is as classic as it is eye-catching.
The tapered centre of this bead set diamond ring will sit alongside an engagement ring perfectly.
Bespoke customisations
For sentimental types, a personalised wedding ring is a must. Engravings, inscriptions, and even fingerprints are popular options but that’s just the beginning. How personal you get is entirely up to you.
It doesn’t come much more meaningful than wearing your spouse’s fingerprint on your own finger every day.
Linneys have a range of bespoke options available.
How long before the wedding should you start looking for your rings?
As soon as possible, but we recommend no later than 3-4 months prior to the big day. This will allow you time to not only find the right rings but have something bespoke made to order if this is what you decide, or have your rings resized if required. Browse our stunning collection of wedding rings online now and visit us in store together to try on the range—trust us, it’s part of the fun.