Guides

Engagement Guide

By Château D'Ivoire

September 5, 2024・reading time: 1 min

Introduction to Engagement and Wedding Rings

Wedding rings and wedding bands symbolize the eternal love and commitment between two people. Worn daily, they are a reminder of the sacred bond shared. Choosing the perfect ring reflects your personal style, your values and your unique relationship.

A wide range of options is available, from classic designs to modern creations. Materials, styles and details vary considerably, offering many choices. Metals, as well as gemstones such as diamonds, sapphires and emeralds, are essential in creating the perfect ring.

Explore this fascinating world to find the ring that will symbolize your union and your love.

The difference between wedding rings and wedding bands

The terms “engagement ring” and “wedding band” refer to two types of ring with distinct meanings. The engagement ring is given at the time of marriage proposal, symbolizing commitment and promise. Often adorned with a central gemstone, it represents the uniqueness of love.

The wedding ring is exchanged at the wedding ceremony, sealing the vows made. It represents the union and continuity of love. Traditionally, they are simple rings made of precious metal, symbolizing eternity.

How to Find the Right Size

The "right" ring size depends on several factors, including personal comfort and the security of the ring on the finger. Here are some key points to consider when determining an appropriate ring size:

Factors for Determining the Right Size

Comfort: The ring should be tight enough not to slip off easily but loose enough to slide over the knuckle. It should be able to turn slightly on the finger without causing discomfort.
Temperature Conditions: Fingers may swell in warm weather and shrink in cold weather. Therefore, it's advisable to measure finger size at a normal room temperature, preferably at the end of the day when fingers are at their largest.
Ring Width: Wider rings tend to fit tighter than thinner ones. It may be necessary to slightly adjust the size for wider rings.
Lifestyle: If the person leads an active lifestyle or works frequently with their hands, it’s important for the ring to fit well to avoid losing it.

Measurements and Standard Sizes

Here’s a simple method for measuring finger size: Using a Tape Measure or String: Wrap a flexible tape measure or string around the base of the finger, without pulling too tightly. Mark the point where the tape or string meets. Measure the marked length in millimeters.

Metals for Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands

The choice of metal is crucial for a wedding or engagement ring. Each metal has its own characteristics in terms of durability, appearance, and cost. Metal purity, often expressed in carats, is an important aspect to consider.

Gold

Gold is one of the most popular metals for wedding and engagement rings, appreciated for its timeless beauty and malleability. Gold is alloyed with other metals to improve its durability, and its purity is measured in carats (K). It also comes in various secondary colors:

Yellow Gold: The traditional color of gold, alloyed with copper and silver.
White Gold: Alloyed with white metals like palladium and coated with rhodium for a bright shine.
Rose Gold: Mixed with copper to create a unique, warm pinkish hue.

Platinum

Platinum is a dense and durable precious metal, ideal for wedding and engagement rings. It’s often used in fine jewellery due to its strength and natural white luster.

Platinum 950 (95% Pt): Contains 95% pure platinum. This is the highest standard in jewellery, offering excellent durability and a brilliant shine.
Platinum 900 (90% Pt): Contains 90% pure platinum. Slightly less pure but still very durable and strong.

Palladium

Palladium is a precious metal in the same family as platinum, valued for its lightweight and resistance to corrosion.

Palladium 950 (95% Pd): Contains 95% pure palladium. It offers great durability and a natural white color similar to platinum.
Palladium 500 (50% Pd): Contains 50% pure palladium. Less common but more affordable.

Silver

Silver is a more affordable precious metal, often used for more casual or vintage-style wedding bands.

Sterling Silver (92.5% Ag): Contains 92.5% pure silver, often alloyed with copper to improve its durability.

Understanding the properties of each metal will help you choose the ring that best matches your preferences and lifestyle.

The various purities of gold include :

Wedding Bands

Wedding bands for men, women, and unisex designs have distinct characteristics:

Women's Wedding Bands: Often adorned with delicate details, engravings, or gemstones. Typical width ranges from 2 to 4 mm.
Men's Wedding Bands: Simple and minimalist in design, often without stones. Matte or brushed finishes, with widths between 4 to 8 mm.
Unisex Wedding Bands: Neutral designs combining both masculine and feminine elements. Average width ranges from 3 to 6 mm.

In summary, women’s wedding bands are distinguished by their delicate details and frequent use of gemstones, while men’s bands are simpler and more robust. Unisex bands adopt a neutral style to suit a wide range of preferences. The width and materials vary depending on the type of band, each offering distinct characteristics suited to individual tastes and needs.

Choosing a wedding band involves considering the design, width, and materials to find the one that best reflects the wearer’s personality and lifestyle.