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Men’s Wedding Rings: A Buying Guide

September 23, 2024September 23, 2024Education, Wedding Ringsmen's wedding bands, men's wedding rings, wedding bands, wedding rings

Choosing the perfect men’s wedding ring is a significant decision that combines personal taste with practical considerations. This guide explores a wide range of options, including materials, styles, and pricing, to help you find a ring that not only symbolizes your commitment but also suits your daily life.

What Is A Wedding Ring?

So what IS a wedding ring? While the engagement ring is what you wear when you are intended to be married, the wedding ring is what you exchange during the ceremony and what you wear once you are officially married.

What Does A Wedding Ring Symbolize?

A wedding ring marks the love between you and your partner and is a symbol to the world of your commitment to each other that you wear and see everyday.

Your wedding ring is emblematic of your wedding vows, a beautiful reminder of the meaningful words you said to your partner on that special day.

The Difference Between A Wedding Ring And a Wedding Band

This one is easy, there isn’t one! Wedding rings and wedding bands are the same things. The terms are used interchangeably and both refer to the ring you exchange during your wedding ceremony to symbolize your commitment to your partner.

Material Choices

Traditional and Alternative Metals: Selecting the right material is crucial as it affects the ring’s look, feel, and durability. Here are some popular options available on James Allen:

Gold: A classic choice, available in yellow, white, and rose hues, varying in karat (14k, 18k).

Platinum: Highly durable and pure, making it hypoallergenic and ideal for sensitive skin.

Tungsten: Extremely hard and scratch-resistant, perfect for those with active lifestyles.

Titanium: Lightweight and strong, resistant to corrosion.

Cobalt: Scratch-resistant and harder than titanium, with a naturally white appearance similar to platinum.

Choosing the Right Width for Men’s Wedding Rings

Typically ranging from 4mm to 8mm. The choice depends on hand size and personal comfort.

Small Hands

A narrower band is generally more proportional and comfortable for men with smaller hands or shorter fingers. A width of 4mm to 6mm can be ideal as it ensures that the ring enhances the finger without overwhelming it. Rings that are too wide can make small hands look even smaller and may also restrict finger movement.

Medium Hands

Men with medium-sized hands are fortunate in that they can comfortably carry off a wide range of widths. A bandwidth of 5mm to 7mm is often perfect, as it provides a noticeable presence on the hand without appearing too bulky or too slender. This range offers a balanced look that complements the hand size.

Large Hands

Those with larger hands or longer fingers can wear wider bands that make a stronger statement. A width of 6mm to 8mm, or even wider, can look more proportional and aesthetically pleasing. Wider bands on larger hands help to fill space elegantly, ensuring the ring looks appropriately scaled.

Thin Fingers

For men with thinner fingers, it’s important to choose a ring that doesn’t overpower the hand but still feels substantial. A narrower band, typically between 4mm and 5mm, tends to be more proportional and aesthetically pleasing. These widths help maintain a delicate balance by providing a noticeable ring presence without making the finger appear even slimmer.

Thick Fingers

Men with thicker fingers have more leeway to go with wider bands, which look more proportionate and can be more comfortable. A width of 6mm to 8mm or more can be ideal. Thicker bands fill more of the finger space, which can visually balance the hand and ensure the ring is noticeable and aesthetically pleasing.

Designs For Men’s Wedding Rings

Classic vs. Contemporary Styles

Classic bands are usually plain with a uniform width, while contemporary styles might incorporate unique textures, colors, and detailing like beveled edges or inlays.

Customization Options

Engravings can personalize your ring with dates, names, or special messages. Some rings also offer the option for inset stones or custom finishes.

Finish Types

Polished: A high gloss that enhances the ring’s color and brightness.

Matte: A less reflective finish that offers a modern look.

Hammered: Textured surface that hides scratches and dents well.

Fit and Comfort

Comfort Fit

Features rounded edges inside the ring to minimize contact with the skin, ideal for those unaccustomed to daily ring-wearing.

Standard Fit

Flat on the inside, which can be less comfortable but may feel more secure for some.

Sizing Tips: Visit a jeweler to have your ring size measured accurately. For online sizing, tools like printable size guides or string/paper methods can help, but professional sizing is recommended for best results.

Durability and Maintenance

Choosing for Lifestyle: Consider how your daily activities might affect your ring. Metals like tungsten or titanium offer high durability against physical work or frequent exposure to elements.

Care Instructions: Different metals require different care:

Gold and silver need regular polishing.
Platinum develops a patina that can be polished to restore its original luster.
Titanium and Tungsten are low-maintenance but difficult to resize.

Cost Considerations

Price Range: Men’s wedding rings can vary significantly in price. A simple silver band might start as low as $100, while high-end platinum bands can exceed $2,000. The average price for a quality gold or alternative metal ring typically ranges from $500 to $1,500.

Budgeting Tips: Determine your budget early in the shopping process and explore various metal options to find a ring that fits both your style and financial parameters.

Choose A Style

Another benefit of selecting a wedding ring is the variety of styles and designs available. We understand that with all the choices available, the overall process of searching for the perfect “one” can become overwhelming. Here is a list of some of our most popular styles along with some details to make things a little simpler.

Classic

Classic men’s wedding rings commonly feature an all-metal band that is either smooth or has a slight texture. Timeless and traditional rings are one of the most popular choices amongst customers. Our classic wedding rings are available in platinum, yellow, white, and Men’s rose gold wedding rings.

Carved

Carved men’s rings are a trendy and popular choice for those looking for a twist on the classic wedding ring. With the evolution of men’s fashion and jewelry, our unique collection of men’s carved rings is not just the perfect accessory; these affordable options complement every masculine style. All our men’s carved wedding rings are available in white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum.

Diamond

Gone are the days when the groom had to settle for a plain yellow or white gold wedding ring while the bride got all the glitz and glam. Thankfully JamesAllen.com stocks a wide selection of male wedding bands featuring diamond accents that are a great way to add that extra bit of personality to your ring.

Alternative

As we mentioned previously, most of the time when we think of men’s wedding rings, we tend to only think of metals such as yellow or white gold. However, these are not the only materials that can be used for wedding rings. In fact, more men are now stepping out and embracing elaborate and very swank looks.

Black wedding rings for men are all the rage right now and becoming increasingly popular due to their striking, masculine look. Of course, this is an excellent way to show your personality and break tradition. They are sleek and modern and serve as a versatile pieces of jewelry that can be worn for any occasion as a fashion ring – #ootd.

At JamesAllem.com we have a gorgeous collection of men’s alternative wedding rings created with metals that include, cobalt chrome™, titanium, black titanium, and ceramic. These rings are designed with every kind of man in mind, especially those who love some modern luxe.

Men's Wedding Rings Vs Men's Engagement Rings

FAQs

What is the most popular metal for men’s wedding rings?

Gold remains the most popular metal for men’s wedding rings due to its timeless appeal and versatility in style and color variations (yellow, white, and rose gold). Platinum is also highly favored for its durability and natural white sheen that does not tarnish over time.

What hand do you wear a wedding ring on?

In many Western cultures, the wedding ring is traditionally worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. This tradition is based on the belief that this finger has a vein that runs directly to the heart. However, some cultures wear wedding rings on the right hand, reflecting local customs and traditions.

Conclusion

Selecting the right men’s wedding ring involves balancing style, material, functionality, and budget. Whether you prefer a timeless gold band or a durable tungsten ring, ensure it reflects your personality and fits comfortably on your finger. Remember, this ring symbolizes your love and commitment, so choose one that you’ll be proud to wear for a lifetime.

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Jessica Thomas

Jessica is a seasoned content writer with four years of experience and a qualified gemologist. She enjoys educating new shoppers on the best practices for buying jewelry.

Yellow Gold vs. White Gold: Key Differences

January 25, 2023September 19, 2023Educationengagement rings, fine jewelry, jewelry, wedding bands, white gold, yellow gold

Deciding between yellow gold vs. white gold? Let us help!

Gold has long been a classic metal choice for any piece of jewelry- and for good reason! Gold is both strong and stunning.

But when shopping for engagement rings, wedding bands, or even fine jewelry, it’s a good idea to determine the differences between yellow and white gold.
Apart from looking different from one another, each metal feels different on the skin, can have different price tags, and vary in durability.

In this blog, we’re going to break down the key differences between yellow gold and white to make your decision making process as easy as possible.

What Is White Gold?

Despite common misconceptions, white gold is always made up of pure gold and at least one other metal.

When the second metal (commonly palladium, nickel, or silver) is added to the gold base, it affects its color and strengthens it.

On its own, pure gold is quite soft and malleable. Alloy metals strengthen the gold while keeping its quintessential shine!

Interestingly, white gold is not completely white until it is plated with the precious rhodium. This rhodium coating adds a lustrous sheen to the jewelry and protects it from scratches. And an added benefit is that very few people are allergic to rhodium!

At the end of the process, white gold is sleek and shiny- similar to platinum or silver.

What Is Yellow Gold?

Did you know that yellow gold is not pure gold? Yellow gold is composed of pure gold and at least one other white metal. For example, 18K gold is a mixture of 75% pure gold and 25% other white metals.

This is a breakdown of the common types of gold:

24K – 100% pure gold
22K – 92% gold and 8% alloyed metals
18K – 75% gold and 25% alloyed metals
14K – 58% gold and 42% alloyed metals

As you can see, the higher the karat number, the more pure gold there is.

Unfortunately, pure gold is far too soft to be worn as everyday jewelry. So white metals are added to strengthen the metal and give it that soft and creamy yellow that we all know and love.

Yellow gold has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Due to its historical rarity, gold was seen as a symbol of wealth and status. And even today, yellow gold remains highly desirable and sophisticated!

What Is The Difference Between Yellow Gold & White Gold?

The most obvious difference between these two beautiful metals is their color. White gold has a silvery tone, while yellow gold has that classic golden hue.

If you want to wear a metal color that looks best with your skin tone, match your metal to pre-owned jewelry, or include certain gems onto your metal, the color will make all the difference.

Since the properties are mostly the same, it all comes down to visual preference. That being said, both metals have their own pros and cons. Keep reading to find out what they are in more depth!

Yellow Gold vs. White Gold

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Yellow Gold vs. White Gold

Durability

Yellow gold is the most expensive and the least durable of the two metals. Yellow gold is more prone to scratches and dents, making it not the most durable option. This metal will also require regular polishing to keep its shine.

On the other hand, white gold has far more resistance to wear and tear. With its rhodium plating, white gold jewelry pieces have a shiny and strong finish. Unfortunately, this plating can wear off over time and may reveal the yellow-ish color underneath. While white gold is a stronger alternative to yellow gold, it still requires proper care and maintenance.

Neither metal is hassle-free, but white gold is generally the safer and stronger option.

Price & Affordability

Believe it or not, yellow gold and white gold are frequently equal in cost. This is especially true if the percentage of pure gold is the same. For example, 14K white gold will be comparable in cost to 14K yellow gold.

In some instances, white gold may be slightly more expensive due to the rhodium plating.

At the end of the day, these two metals are rarely placed at drastically different price points.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Generally, white gold is considered to be more hypoallergenic than yellow gold. This is because of the alloyed metals that are added to the base (such as nickel or palladium), which are less likely to cause allergic reactions.

That being said, it is still very possible that someone may also have a sensitivity to white gold. It’s worth noting that even though white gold is considered hypoallergenic, it is not completely free of allergens.

If you know that you have sensitive skin or are prone to allergies, it’s always best to consult with a dermatologist or a jeweler before buying gold jewelry of any kind.

Especially when deciding on an everyday piece of jewelry- it’s best to make sure you’ll be comfortable!

Color

As we know, the color of these two metals is their key difference.

In general, yellow gold tends to compliment warm skin tones beautifully. Yellow gold will bring out the warmth of yellow, olive, or medium-dark skin tones, creating a radiant glow.

White gold, on the other hand, tends to compliment cool skin tones well. White gold can give you a fresh and vibrant look if you have slightly paler skin with pink or red undertones.

That being said, it is so important to remember that personal preference plays a huge role in choosing your color of gold. Some people may prefer the classic and traditional look of yellow gold, while others may prefer the modern and sleek look of white gold, regardless of skin color.

Wear what you like and what makes you feel good!

Weight

The weight difference between yellow gold and white gold can vary depending on the specific piece of jewelry, but in general, the weight of the gold itself should be roughly the same.

The difference in weight between the two comes from the other metals used to alloy it. White gold typically requires more alloy metals than yellow gold to achieve its silvery color, which can make it slightly heavier. But this difference in weight would be minimal and barely noticeable when being worn.

Ultimately, weight should not be a significant factor when deciding on a type of gold- both are durable and long-lasting choices for your jewelry.

Popularity

The popularity of yellow gold versus white gold really depends on what type of jewelry you’re looking at.

In a very general sense, white gold has risen in popularity, especially in engagement rings. White gold has a modern and sleek appearance that appeals to many young people moving away from the traditional look of yellow gold.

On the other hand, yellow gold remains a timeless choice that is still popular in wedding bands and many types of fine jewelry.

Why Choose A White Gold Engagement Ring?

There are plenty of reasons why white gold will make a great metal for your engagement ring!

The color of white gold is very similar to that of platinum but is less expensive, making it a more affordable option for the same look!

Platinum Shared Prong Marquise Side Stone Diamond Engagement Ring

White gold is also a durable metal that can withstand everyday wear and tear, making it a practical choice for your engagement ring.

White gold is incredibly versatile; it will look good with a number of gemstones and styles! They even say that white gold tends to reflect the sparkle of any diamonds on your ring, enhancing their size and brilliance!

14K White Gold Petite Pavé Cathedral Engagement Ring

Why Choose A Yellow Gold Engagement Ring?

You simply cannot go wrong with a yellow gold engagement ring! This is a metal that has been used in jewelry for centuries!

Yellow gold has a warm, classic, and traditional appearance that many find attractive. Evoking these feelings suits engagement rings perfectly.

Yellow Gold Claw Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring

Also, if your ring has diamonds or warm-toned stones such as ruby, morganite, and purple sapphire, gold will pair nicely.

Because of yellow gold’s prevalence in jewelry, finding a wedding band or fine jewelry to match it will not be hard. Plus, they say yellow gold looks good on everyone!

14K Yellow Gold Three Stone Pear Shaped Engagement Ring

FAQs

Which is better, white or yellow gold?

This all comes down to personal preference! If you have cool toned skin, white gold may be better for you. If you like the classic look of traditional jewelry, yellow gold may be better for you. It all depends on what you are looking for in your jewelry. Wear whatever feels best to you!

Is yellow gold more expensive than white gold?

Generally, the answer is no. More often than not, yellow gold and white gold with the same amount of pure gold will cost the exact same. If they’re not, it’s actually more likely that white gold will be more expensive due to its rhodium plating.

Does white or yellow gold last longer?

With the proper care, both yellow gold and white gold can last a very long time!

Even though the rhodium plating that is often coated on top of white gold strengthens the metal, it can wear off over time and need to be reapplied.

Unlike white gold, yellow gold doesn’t require plating or re-plating.

It’s important to remember that all gold jewelry will eventually show signs of wear and tear and may need to be polished or repaired over time.

Is yellow gold out of style?

Not at all! While white gold has definitely risen in popularity recently, yellow gold is as strong as ever. Yellow gold can still be found in engagement rings, wedding bands, and all types of fine jewelry. Just like diamonds, they say yellow gold is never out of style!

Final Thoughts

With two stunning metals to choose from, it can be tricky to figure out which one is best for you. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preferences and needs. Whether you decide on donning a silvery white gold piece or a creamy yellow gold piece, you’ll know they’re both stunning.

Check out all that James Allen offers- in yellow and white gold!