Carved Wedding Bands

From LoveToKnow EngagementRings

Carved wedding bands can be a fantastic alternative to plain rings. The intricate carvings form individual and unique rings, each one a miniature work of art.

Carved rings are interesting designs.
Carved rings are interesting designs.

Carved Ring History

Carved wedding rings have a long and ancient tradition. In Roman times, rings were often carved to symbolize two hands clasped, and other civilizations’ rings would be carved with a key in them to symbolize a key to the heart. The Celts were great exponents of carved jewelry and their unique style has remained popular throughout the centuries. Victorians were also great fans of carved rings, and many examples of antique carved jewelry can be readily found. In the first half of the twentieth century both the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements formed a trend for carved rings.

Many modern designers and jewelers look back on these traditions and draw inspiration. Reflections of these traditional styles can be found in even the most cutting edge or contemporary modern day rings.

Today, carved wedding rings are available in a wide range of styles. Modern laser technologies mean that intricate designs can be carved onto a ring in a way that would previously have been impossible. Tiny, delicate carvings along the edges of the ring would have been difficult to even the most skilled of craftsmen in the past but are possible today.

Carved and Engraved Wedding Rings

Carved wedding rings are slightly different to engraved rings. A carved ring has a much deeper pattern, often with 3D shapes and features. This means that intricate and unusual shapes can be found within the ring rather than just on the surface. Engraving is generally used to add facets or surface texture or design to a ring, but is not so deep.

Styles of Carved Wedding Bands

There are a wide range of styles of carved rings available from rings with subtle carvings to heavily ornate rings. Rings are made from a whole variety of precious metals, although gold remains the most popular. The variety of colors of gold in means that a carved ring could be made using a combination of colors. This opens up a whole range of exciting options and brings a depth to the ring design.

Matching carved bands.
Matching carved bands.

The rich surface texture of carved wedding bands also means that parts of the ring have a bright shine, while others are matte or satin. This is an interesting feature of carved rings and highlights the carving. Another option is to inlay the carving with a different metal or even tint the metal to highlight the design.

Carved rings are attractive to men as well as women. The diverse range of styles available means that there is sure to be something that pleases. Celtic inspired carved wedding bands remain popular and are suitable for both sexes. The combination of the symbolism and the attractive styling makes these an interesting choice. Celtic jewelry is almost evergreen, never likely to go out of style or fashion.

Other styles are bred from geometric and cubist inspiration. This bold style lends itself to chunky thick bands. For a more delicate approach, floral styles are better suited to thin bands.

How a Carved Ring is Created

There are different ways of making carved wedding rings and this will affect the price of the ring. With mass produced rings the term ‘carved’ is generally a description of the style rather than the technique used to create the ring. Today, very few mass produced rings are hand carved. Many independent jewelers will carve a blank from wax and cast the rings. Other ways of producing carved rings is to design a ring on the computer and have the metal laser carved. This is not to say that it is impossible to find a hand carved ring. There are many artisan and specialist jewelers who offer exciting and unique rings, and will be delighted to create something new if requested.

Tips for Buying a Carved Ring

  • Regardless of the metal type, the ring will wear down slightly over the years. Choosing a ring with a deep pattern will help protect the style of the ring.
  • Only the surface of deeply carved rings will remain shiny as the inner parts will tarnish over time. This can be a feature of the ring and this aging process will add to its charm. A jeweler, however will be able to advise on how to clean a carved ring and to keep it looking its best.
  • A wedding ring is often worn in conjunction with an engagement ring. Making sure that a carved band compliments the engagement ring can be a challenge. One alternative is to chose a wedding ring with diamonds or other stones incorporated into it and wearing this as a wedding and engagement ring combined.

The choice carved wedding rings will bring years of pleasure. The range of styles and designs means that a ring as unique as the special couple will mark their eternal commitment.



 


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