A wedding band is likely to be the piece of jewelry worn most often in a lifetime. Comfort and durability matter as much as style.
Width
| Width | Character |
|---|---|
| 2–3 mm | Fine and delicate; stacks easily beside an engagement ring |
| 4–6 mm | Classic and balanced |
| 6 mm and wider | Bold; fits more tightly, so consider a slightly larger size |
Profile
- Flat: modern, with crisp edges.
- Court or comfort fit: rounded inside, slides easily over the knuckle.
- D-shape: rounded outside, flat inside; traditional.
- Knife-edge: rises to a fine ridge; light and elegant.
Metal and finish
If the band will be worn beside an engagement ring, choose the same metal so they wear evenly. Polished finishes shine; brushed or satin finishes are softer and gradually polish with wear; hammered textures hide small marks.
With stones
Half-eternity bands have stones across the top; full-eternity bands have them all the way round, and are difficult or impossible to resize.
Beside an engagement ring
A straight band sits flush beside a ring with a high setting. A low-set or wide centre stone may need a contoured or shaped band. Try them together if you can.
Engraving and timing
Many couples engrave a date or a few words inside the band. Allow time for sizing and engraving before the wedding.
Metals compared
| Metal | Character | Upkeep |
|---|---|---|
| Yellow gold | Warm, classic | Occasional polishing |
| White gold | Bright white | Occasional re-plating |
| Rose gold | Soft, warm | Occasional polishing |
| Platinum | Naturally white, dense | Develops a patina; polish if desired |
Resizing
Plain bands in gold or platinum can usually be resized within a range. Bands with stones all the way round usually cannot, and textured or engraved bands may lose part of their pattern. Consider this when choosing, as finger size can change over the years.
Timing
Allow time for sizing, any engraving and a final fitting. Bands chosen to fit a particular engagement ring may need extra time if they are shaped to follow it.
Trying bands on
Wear a band for a few minutes before deciding. Width and profile feel very different on the hand than they look in photographs, and a band that sits well at rest must also be comfortable when you make a fist.
Sources: General jewellers' guidance.
Frequently asked questions
What width should a wedding band be?
It depends on the hand and on taste. Fine bands of 2 to 3 mm are delicate; 4 to 6 mm is a classic range; wider bands make a statement.
Can a full eternity band be resized?
Usually not, or only very slightly, because stones run all the way round. Size it carefully from the start.
Should wedding bands be the same width?
Not necessarily. Each band should suit the hand and the rings it is worn with.
What is a comfort-fit band?
A band with a rounded inner surface that slides more easily over the knuckle and feels smoother to wear.
