How to Choose Wedding Rings/Bands

Gollum from the Lord of the Rings

After the merriment and celebration, the only mementos left of the wedding are photos, videos, souvenir items and the rings. The latter are priceless because it is the only thing that you will keep and be worn every day for the rest of your life, given that you decide to stay married. During preparations, the couple would usually invest a reasonable chunk of the wedding budget for the rings because as we said the sentimental value is much important than the cost itself.

We list down some points that would-be-married guys should consider upon buying your wedding’s “my precious” (Gollum sound!).

1. Budget

This is one of the most important things to consider in choosing your wedding rings. Not all rings are made equal. However, there is always something fit for your budget. You have to consult this with your jeweler or goldsmith. Remember, most suppliers' published rates are higher so make a point to ask if there is a discount especially if it's paid in cash. Don't be a lowballer. Also, upon inquiring, set your budget lower so there is room in case you need to customize something. Buying in wedding fairs can also give you significant discounts. Check also for ready-made rings on display as these can have huge mark downs. Resizing won't cost you much.

Your budget will also depend upon consideration of the items below. Size, composition, design, texture, and inclusion of stones could greatly impact the cost of the ring.

2. Size

You have to be sure of this. If not, you can personally fit your size from the supplier's sample rings. It is advisable to purchase rings from a supplier which consider your ring sizes especially if you have small fingers.

Finger Size - This is the ring finger's circumference or the inner circumference of the ring. Average sizes are 8 for males and 5 for females.

Width - This is the measurement of the ring looking over it (in millimeters). You can increase or decrease this depending on your budget. The bigger the width the bigger and more jewels you can put, if any.

Thickness - This is the difference of the outer and inner circumference of the ring. Thicker rings are more rigid and resistant to bending.

Photo from The Ring movie

3. Composition

This refers to the element your ring is made of. Basically, this goes with your budget. In order of price, tungsten is least, gold is in the middle while platinum is the most expensive of all. You also have to consider the carat. 14K and 18K carats are the usual and standard values. 14K has lesser gold but is more solid while 18K has more gold but can be soft and prone to dents and scratches, depending on your design and use. There are also gold varieties depending on their sources. Example, Saudi gold is more sought than Italian or Hongkong gold.

4. Design

This will depend on your personal preference. There really are many options but the most common are Dome, Flat, and Beveled. Some also prefer to have knurls as design so the rings won't be too plain. You can also choose between single tone (e.g. Yellow Gold or White Gold) or two tone (e.g. White-Yellow-White Gold or Yellow-White-Yellow Gold). Common variations for gold are White, Yellow and Rose.

The ring that rule them all, LOTR, photo courtesy of

www.insidepulse.com

5. Texture

The texture refers to the look and feel of the outer part of the ring. This can be "Polished", the shiny look; "Matte", the anti-glare look; and "Metallic brushed", more of in the middle (semi polished with lines as if done with a paintbrush).

  

6. Stone

Stones can be included in the ring. Most common are diamonds. This can be expensive so better check your budget first. Usually, only the bride's ring will be studded with stones but one or two on a groom's wouldn't hurt. Just make sure it still looks manly. After all, it will still end up on your personal preference.

  

7. Location

This is really important. You need to research and check the reputation of your supplier. Ongpin for one is known for their less expensive rings. But you must be very careful of whom your dealing with. There were posted complaints online of substandard and fake rings. Although these are not confirmed reports, might as well everyone must be aware of these modus. Those in the malls and wedding fairs offer higher published rates but less the stress and risks. One way or another, you have to weigh in your options and just make sure you did due diligence in selecting the one who will provide you with a ring that could last forever.