Tuesday, 6 October 2009

Wedding Band Metals - Some Important Points To Consider When Choosing Your Bands

By Rich Keys

There are many aspects to consider when choosing a ring, beyond the basics such as the band width and the quality of the diamond. Often the metal from which the entire ring is fabricated will be chosen as an after-thought.

Gold is the most customary choice for wedding rings as it traditionally represents warmth and love, but symbolism aside it has materialistic features to mull over. Gold quality is ranked by karats; 10k, 14k, 18k, or 24k. The most pure gold is 24k, but it is also the softest. The reverie of pure gold will soon be lost after the scratches and dents become noticeable in its once untainted glow. Also, the softness of 24k gold makes the ring more susceptible to weak prongs. To ensure a lasting ring with low maintenance, opt for the 14k or 18k gold. A lower percent of gold is worth the assurance that the wedding ring will last the duration of the marriage.

If the idea of having even a percentage of the metal in the wedding ring vulnerable to damage is still unnerving, platinum is the only route. Being that it is the strongest metals allows it to retain the symbolism in a more non-traditional sense. The strength of the metal parallels the strength of the couple it is bonding. Also, the fact that is the strongest metal makes it a smart choice while the appealing sheen makes it an elegant option as well.

A different advantage of platinum in regards to rings is that it is 100% pure. Because it is not mixed with other metals as gold is, it is safe for those who have allergies. The one downside of platinum is the price. It costs more than gold, but when shopping for wedding rings, the price should be second to durability.

Platinum and gold do rule the wedding ring market, but other metals, especially in men's rings, are available. Tungsten is popular due to its lustrous polish and heavy feel. They allow the groom to wear a ring he is proud of while preserving masculinity. Titanium is also gaining notoriety. Like platinum and tungsten, titanium is of high quality and indisputable strength.

Naturally, aesthetic appeal is still essential with wedding rings, and thus you need to keep in mind some other factors. A lot of couples believe you must choose matching engagement and wedding rings, yet clinging to this myth will limit your otherwise endless possibilities.

Wearing the engagement ring on the right hand and the wedding ring on the left allows for two completely separate styles to shine yet retain their original meaning. Otherwise, if the styles match but the metals conflict, pairing the two together produces a bold statement that draws attention in a chic way.

You should also bear in mind what type of jewellery you wear most often; for example if the bride wears a lot of silver jewellery then a white gold or platinum wedding ring might be the best option. With the groom, it could be the style of watch that needs to match.

The true value of marriage comes from the love a man and woman share for each other. The market value of the wedding rings just shows what they can or can't afford on their day of happiness. The wedding rings are only a symbol that they are committed to each other.

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