Matching Wedding Bands

About Wedding Rings

The tradition of giving a wedding ring as a sign of commitment has its roots deep in history. Ancient civilizations exchanged rings, believing that eternity was reflected by the circular shape of a ring with no beginning and no end. Ancient Egyptians exchanged rings as long ago as 2800 BC. Later the Romans adopted the tradition and it spread through cultures and religions making the wearing of a wedding or betrothal ring a truly cross cultural and international symbol.

The wearing of matching wedding bands takes this symbolism one step further. By matching and sharing a ring design, the symbol of everlasting love and togetherness into eternity is reinforced.

Although the sharing of matching rings is a close and intimate thing to do, it can also present some couples with a problem or two. It might be that couple that agrees on most things has wildly differing tastes when it comes to jewelry. Another issue might arise over the practicality of the shape and size of rings. Different professions and lifestyles may also dictate the ideal ring requirements: what might be perfect for one half of the couple might be totally impractical for the other half.

There are many different ways that matching rings can be found while still meeting the requirements of each person as an individual.

Style and Metal Choice

Matching rings don’t necessarily mean that the rings need be precise replicas of each other. They can also match because they are complimentary or have drawn inspiration from a common source. Two rings with a Celtic theme can be matching in style but look quite different in appearance. A single colored 14 karat band could be great for someone who works with their hands and requires a strong ring. The same ring using a combination of golds, or perhaps scattered with stones, would make an ideal alternative for someone making less hard demands on their jewelry. Tungsten is a stronger alternative to white gold for someone looking for a durable ring.

There is an almost endless combination of styles and metal types which ought to offer potential to all couples looking for matching rings.

Buying Matching Wedding Bands

When buying matching bands, there are many considerations to take into account. It would be useful to start the process by drawing up a list of priorities. These might include:

• Profession: This includes considering whether the rings are likely to have extra hard wear or be a health and safety risk.
• Metal Preference: Are the warm rich colors of gold preferred over the cool sophistication of white metal colors? Are there any other pieces of jewelry that the rings need to match or compliment?
• Budget: Budget restraints will help dictate the choice of ring. Deciding this early on can avoid disappointment later.
• Preferences: A scrapbook with pictures of likes and dislikes is a great way to start to build up a picture of the dream rings. This can also be extremely useful when buying a ring, particularly if rings are being custom made.

Engraving Rings

Matching wedding bands do not even have to be outwardly similar. A matching engraving inside the ring can be an ideal way to share a sentiment or special message. This can be a perfect compromise for the couple whose styles or requirements are such that identical rings are impractical.

Other Ideas

There are occasions where sadly, it is impossible to wear matching bands. There are still alternatives, though, which could be considered. Perhaps a lady wishes her wedding ring to match the engagement ring, but this will result in a wedding band style impractical for her husband-to-be. An alternative piece of jewelry matching his wedding band might prove an ideal compromise. This needn’t be expensive. As the additional piece of jewelry is to compliment the wedding bands and might be worn less often, silver could be used instead of white gold, or gold plate or gold filled jewelry instead of solid gold.

Buying matching wedding bands will be one of the first major purchases a soon-to-be married couple will make. While it won’t be the last, it will certainly be one of the most significant and should provide an everlasting symbol of love and commitment.