The wedding ring is one of the most significant pieces of jewelry you’ll ever wear. It carries with it the promise of marriage, a commitment to a lifetime of love and care. It’s not only a beautiful symbol of your relationship but also an important reminder to prioritise your partner above all others in both public and private life. The idea of wearing a wedding ring dates back thousands of years, with ancient Egyptians among the first to embrace this custom.
Choosing the right wedding ring is a big splurge and it’s not something you want to take lightly. After all, you’ll be wearing it every day for the rest of your lives. That’s why it’s crucial to take your time and shop around, considering everything from price to craftsmanship to style. Then there’s how you feel about it—do you like the look of a diamond? Do you prefer the classic simplicity of a gold band? Whatever you choose, make sure it’s a piece that you really love.
One current trend in wedding bands is some element of personalization with many couples opting to engrave their name, initials or wedding date on the inside of the ring. It’s a little detail that can make the world of difference, especially for future generations when the rings are passed down again and again.
Aside from personalised engravings, there are a variety of other ways you can make your ring truly your own. Whether it’s by choosing a metal you haven’t traditionally worn or by adding a unique design element, the options are endless.
As for durability, both Murthy and Neal recommend you soak your ring in a bath of warm water with a mild soap for about five minutes once a week. They also suggest getting your ring professionally cleaned at least once a year to check for loose stones, prongs and to give it a deep clean.
Another thing to consider is where your ring is sourced from and how it was made. “This is a very important question to ask, especially when you are shopping for an ethical and sustainable wedding ring,” says Neal. “Where the materials come from and how they are sourced play into the inherent meaning and value of your ring.”
Finally, if you can’t afford a bespoke piece of jewelry that is entirely your own, consider getting your ring sized by a jeweler. It’s a free service and it takes hardly any time at all, so just pop into your local jewellery store with your fiance and get it measured. Then jot down the measurement in your phone so you don’t forget it later.
In many cultures, a best man or maid of honour has the duty of keeping track of the bride and groom’s wedding rings throughout the ceremony so they can be produced at the symbolic moment. In more elaborate weddings, they may help to parade the rings into the ceremony on a cushion or even carry them on a ring bearer (often someone in the couple’s immediate family). However you do it, this is an important part of the celebration.