Men's wedding rings advice (Part 5)

5.Choosing matching wedding rings

Are you hoping to wear a matching wedding ring?

Couples sometimes choose to wear matching wedding rings. This can be a romantic touch, though it will limit the options that you can choose from. You would then need to take into account all of the above factors for you and your fianc? and importantly you will need to consider the types of rings that your fianc? can wear with her engagement ring. Some ladies engagement rings need to have curved fitted rings specially made to match their wedding ring, so if that is the case for your fianc?'s ring, it would generally be best to not have matching rings.

For these reasons couples sometimes prefer to choose a ring with some similar features, such as the same metal type, a similar pattern or another feature in common.

6.Should your men's wedding ring include gemstones?

It is acceptable for a men's wedding ring to include diamonds and gemstones.

The decision to include diamonds or gemstones in your ring will depend on your personal preference.

You should consider the type of work that you do and the sports you play when considering gemstones. Gemstone settings can be affected and the risk of a gemstone being lost will be increased if the ring is knocked around through manual labour and some sporting activities.

You should also consider the type of gemstones that are suitable to be worn in wedding rings. Some gemstones are more fragile than others and are not suited to be worn everyday. The gemstones that are suitable to be worn in wedding rings are diamonds, sapphires (all colors of sapphires including blue, black, pink, orange, green and yellow) and rubies.

We do not suggest that opal rings be worn as wedding rings, as opals are a more fragile gemstone.

7.Choosing your men's wedding ring design

Traditionally men preferred simple gold wedding bands to symbolise their love. Though over the last 15 years men have increasingly been moving away from the traditional gold wedding ring towards something a little different.

There are many ring designs to choose from. You will need to take into account the factors above. Then it's a matter of personal preference.

Types of ring styles include simple bands made in all yellow gold, all white gold, platinum, or titanium or tungsten; rings with inlay stripes or ribbed edges; rings with diamonds or gemstones; rings with unique patterns; two-tone rings with a combination of metal types, and woven or wave ring styles.

When considering lifestyle factors and ring designs you should note that a woven, puzzle or heavily patterned ring could be damaged whilst playing sport or working with your hands. A ring with diamonds or gemstones may be at greater risk of having the gem settings damaged and potentially loosing a gemstone.

Hopefully this information will help you to choose the right wedding ring for you.