Choosing Between the Different Types of Wedding Bands
A wedding band or wedding ring is a small finger ring which signifies that its wearer is engaged. It's typically forged out of silver or some other precious metal and is typically hammered flat by a jeweler. In some areas a wedding band may also be combined with an engagement ring; if so then the wedding band will be a matching set of rings, rather than one large single ring. A wedding band comes in different designs - some are simple with a plain setting, others have engravings, while still others may feature intricate diamond cuts. For this reason, there are literally thousands of wedding bands to choose from - which is almost as many as there are brides to choose from!
Another important consideration when choosing women wedding bands is what is known as the ring setting. This is where the actual stone is positioned on the ring; it is most commonly a flush set in the center of the band, but can vary from a prong setting, through to an bezel. The ring setting is important because it dictates how the stone looks when the band is worn - some stones look best when the setting is lower, while others are better placed into a higher setting. For this reason it is advisable to ask a jeweler to explain which settings are best for your particular ring; a good jeweler should be able to explain the reasoning behind their recommendations.
As previously mentioned, there are several types of wedding bands: platinum, gold, titanium and stainless steel. Each of these metals has its advantages and disadvantages. For example, platinum is extremely durable, but the cost of this metal is considerably higher than gold or titanium. In addition, platinum is more difficult to cut, polish and shape; although this is unnecessary as the majority of wedding bands in the jewelry industry today are made using these three materials. Platinum can be a nice option if you prefer a lighter color metal for your ring.
Gold and titanium wedding bands are the most common type used at ceremonies today. They match each other in many ways and are often chosen for their timeless elegance and smooth finishes. Because of the durability of the metal, they are often ideal for use in high-end engagements and weddings. However, a downside of choosing gold or titanium over another metal is that these bands can be more difficult to repair. The cost of gold may be prohibitive if you need to replace your wedding bands more frequently.
Stainless steel wedding bands are often used at ceremonies, because they are less likely to break or become damaged during use. However, they cannot easily be shaped, polished or engraved, so they tend to be overlooked by many couples. This is unfortunate, because stainless steel is easily the most desirable of all the wedding bands out there. It can look equally stunning whether worn with a white gold band or a platinum band, and it adds an elegant touch to any wedding or engagement ceremony. Furthermore, they are far easier to clean and maintain than other bands, making them highly preferable.
If money is no object, then there are still a couple of good options available. Palladium is very popular, because it is quite rare and attractive. However, it does tend to scratch and tarnish, which makes it unsuitable for all but the highest quality jewelry. Titanium is another option, as it is also extremely hardwearing, but is not easily susceptible to scratches or tarnishing. Wedding sets that feature palladium, titanium and stainless steel can look stunning, but will likely end up being too expensive for many brides and grooms. Wedding bands are one of the most important parts of your wedding set, so make sure that you choose something that suits both your budget and your taste! Read more about weddings at http://www.huffingtonpost.com/conde-nast-traveler/let-the-wedding-planning_b_6439748.html.