Top 10 tips for choosing the groom's wedding ring

10 December 2015

Metal

The most popular metal choices for men are platinum, palladium, 18 carat white or yellow gold. If you have a job where you are using your hands regularly, harder metals such as platinum or palladium are the best choices. The intriguing rose gold is also an option.

Weddings on Female First

The London Victorian Ring Company (www.london-victorian-ring.com) are now offering an exclusive range of men's wedding bands, based upon their well-known antique and vintage designs. Deborah Jones, co-owner of the business, which has been in the family for 125 years, offers her top ten tips for choosing a wedding ring for the groom:

Band Width

It is always best to try on a selection of rings to see which width of band looks best on your hand. Many men select a band between 4mm to 6mm wide; the most popular being 5 mm. Depending on the length of your fingers and hand shape, you may find either a narrower or wider band will compliment your hand better.

Profile/ Shape of Band

Selecting the profile of the band is often easier once you have decided on the width of the band. Men's wedding rings come in several main profiles: D-shape, Court (also known as Comfort Fit), Flat Court and a Flat band. A traditional profile is a D-shape band, which is rounded on the outside and flat on the inside. A court band, or comfort fit, is rounded both on the inside and outside and weighs more than a D-shape. A flat court is flat on the outside and rounded on the inside. Flat bands have a more contemporary look and are flat both on the inside and outside.

Finish. It's all in the detail!

The finish of the ring refers to the finish of the metal. Polished is a high shine option. Alternatively, the Brushed, Matt or Satin finish imparts a non-shiny effect on the metal, giving a modern, stylish look. You may want part of your ring to have a millegrain detailing on the edges or in the middle of the design. Millegrain are tiny beads of metal that subtly reflect the light and make a fashionable statement all of its own.

Style

A wedding ring is a perfect opportunity to create a custom ring reflecting your personal style. Think about whether you'd prefer a traditional band, contemporary finish, hand-engraved band or custom one-off ring.

Comfort

The feel and weight of the ring are important, as you will be wearing your ring on a daily basis for many years!

Budget

Set your budget in advance. It will help narrow down what can be a wide range of options.

Create a matching set

You may want a 'his and her' set to compliment your fiancée's wedding band. If your fiancée has selected an engraved wedding ring for example, you might choose a customised band from a jeweller who can create matching engraving.

Buy from a trustworthy jeweller

A checklist to ensure you have this tip nailed is as follows: 1) Ensure your ring will come with a hallmark to verify the metal purity. 2) Your ring is solid so it can be re-sized if necessary in the future. 3) Your ring comes with an official valuation so you can insure your ring in case of loss. 4) Shop somewhere like Hatton Garden, which is London's jewellery and diamond quarter, where you'll find businesses like the London Victorian Ring Co, who are experienced in making and dealing in fine jewellery.

Making sure your partner is happy with your choice

It's always nice to make sure your partner to be is happy with your choice and likes your ring.

Deborah adds, "Following these steps often makes purchasing a wedding ring much easier. We know that some men may have not worn jewellery before so it is of upmost importance that the rings are comfortable and well-fitted to be worn daily."