Bridal Set Engagement Rings

What Makes Up a Bridal Set Engagement Ring

A bridal set – also called a wedding set – is actually a pair of rings designed to be worn together. Some bridal sets even include three rings: the bride’s engagement ring and wedding band as well as the groom’s wedding band. All three rings have similar characteristics, such as metal choice and stylistic accents.

Types of Bridal Set Engagement Rings

There are two basic types of bridal set engagement rings: parallel rings and integrated rings. Parallel rings are similar to traditional, separate rings and either ring can be worn by itself. The wedding band may be plain or may have matching details such as inset stones or a pave setting that coordinates with the engagement ring. In a parallel set, the wedding band typically does not have raised stones or other elaborate details that might interfere with the engagement ring when the two pieces are worn together.

An integrated bridal set is a more elaborately designed pair, and the wedding band cannot usually be worn without the accompanying engagement ring or else it would appear incomplete. In many cases, the wedding band is designed as a coordinating diamond ring wrap for the engagement ring, perhaps supplying accent stones or finishing details to the engagement ring. In this way, the primary stone in the engagement ring also becomes the centerpiece for the complete bridal set.

Bridal sets range from simple Diamond Solitaire Engagement Rings with understated wedding band wraps to elaborate designs with both rings sporting multiple accent stones to surround a fancy shaped diamond. Marquise and round diamonds are the most popular shapes. The most common stones are diamonds, both for the center stone as well as the accent stones, though many jewelers can create customized bridal sets including colored gemstones for a more unique piece. Yellow Gold is the most prominent metal, but bridal sets can also be fashioned from white gold, platinum, or other metals.

Costs of Bridal Sets

Initially, a bridal set will cost more than an individual engagement ring, depending on the size and quality of the stones. Naturally, bridal sets that include the groom’s ring are also more expensive. What a couple must consider, however, is that through this one purchase they not only have an engagement ring, but also one or both wedding bands, which may lead to a significant savings later on. In addition to an ultimately lower price, the couple is also guaranteed a perfectly matched ring set, rather than a jury-rigged set of individual pieces. If a couple needs to customize a wedding band to match an elaborate engagement ring, the overall cost could be substantially higher.

Concerns about Bridal Sets

The biggest concern about bridal sets is the inability for integrated rings to be worn separately. This requires the bride-to-be to forfeit her engagement ring prior to the wedding ceremony, and the two rings should be soldered together for a seamless, permanent fit. Furthermore, if the rings are not permanently joined and the engagement ring is lost, the wedding band can no longer be worn. Additionally, if the woman eventually wants to pass on her engagement ring as an heirloom, it is impossible to do so with a bridal set.

Another concern about bridal sets is their inherent intricacy. Because the majority of bridal sets use multiple accent stones in a pattern that surrounds a larger center stone, they are more susceptible to accidental damage during daily wear. Of course, if one ring gets damaged, both rings must be surrendered for repairs. Therefore, these rings are not appropriate choices for women who lead very active lifestyles or who prefer more subtle, understated jewelry.

Engagement ring sets can be beautifully integrated designer pieces or simply elegant matched rings, perfect for a discriminating couple who wants a lasting, elegant symbol of how intertwined their relationship truly is.