Finding the best wedding rings and bridal ring sets

With wedding rings, the main choice is between a bridal set or two separate rings. Then there is the question of coordinating with the groom’s wedding band.

It all starts with the engagement ring. Next, the groom and bride must decide whether or not to coordinate some or all of the wedding rings. After that, choosing bands and rings is a question of personal taste and budget.

Wedding band or wedding set

Some couples choose their wedding jewellery together, including bands and engagement rings. If the bride or the bridegroom choose an engagement ring independently of the wedding ring, the rings may not necessarily coordinate in the same way as a wedding set. This is a good option for a bride who does not mind wearing two separate rings, in different styles.

A bridal set, or wedding set, is the bride’s engagement ring and wedding band. The two bands share style and design elements and are made to be worn together. Often they are linked together and cannot be worn separately. Occasionally the wedding set will also include the groom’s wedding band.

Diamond engagement rings

Choosing the diamond is the first serious foray into jewellery shopping for many men. Diamonds are available in a range of price points. Learning about how to choose a diamond is an important first step to recognising stone and ring quality. To choose a diamond, remember the four Cs: cut, clarity, colour and carat. Also, remember to ask if the jeweller can guarantee the clarity and colour of the diamond.

1. Cut: This means the shape of the diamond, such as round, pear, and oval. It also refers to how the diamond is proportioned. A properly cut diamond will sparkle more. Diamond cuts are measured by the table percentage, so always ask for it. Look for 55-60 per cent.
2. Clarity: The clarity of the diamond will be explained based on a charting scheme, ranging from “flawless” to “large inclusions level 3.”
3. Colour: The colours usually range from white to yellow. Diamonds are also available in shades of green, pink, blue and red.
4. Carat: This refers to the size of the diamond.

Choosing rings

For a bridal set, there might be diamonds in the wedding band, to match the engagement ring. For a less-traditional male style, the groom’s band may also contain diamonds. Some couples may wish to purchase ethical diamonds, and these are now widely available, sourced from conflict-free countries including Canada. Also keep in mind that some wedding rings include stones other than diamonds, and some do not include any stones at all.

For both bridal sets and individual rings, couples must decide on what type of metal or metals they will choose. Besides gold, white gold, silver, and platinum, there are materials like tungsten carbide and titanium. Materials that are not precious metals are also much cheaper, but still, have great styles to choose from.

Tungsten carbide is becoming more popular because it won’t bend or shatter, is scratch proof, and always has a polished appearance. If the bridegroom works with his hands a lot, this would be a great option to consider.

Ring styles

Ring styles range from vintage, antique store finds to modern, custom designs. Some couples choose to highlight their heritage in the ring, as is seen in Celtic wedding ring designs. As well, bands can be engraved with personal messages and engraved jewellery always adds a personal touch to the item.

Whatever the style and price range, brides and grooms will find a jeweller to accommodate almost every taste and wallet. However, after extensive searching, if there is still no ring or ring set that appeals to a bride or groom, they always have the option of making their own.

Alexandra Ross