Shopping Guide for Men's Wedding Bands
For many men, shopping for a wedding band is their first experience choosing jewelry for themselves. It's a process that should be guided by your comfort and personal style. There are a few variables to consider. First, decide on the metal, such as gold or platinum. Next, select the band's width, usually measured in millimeters. Then, choose your preferred style and finish. Lastly and most importantly, know your ring size to ensure a comfortable fit.
When choosing a metal, consider your preference for color, such as white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum, which looks similar to white gold. Know that a higher gold karat weight, such as 18K or 22K, is softer and will scratch more easily than 14K. White gold is often rhodium-plated for a bright finish. Platinum is heavier, and shows wear quicker if you prefer a more worn-in look. Platinum is also the least reactive metal for sensitive skin. Alternative metals, such as tungsten or titanium, are also options but remember, these rings can often not be resized.
Next, decide on the band's width. The best method is to try rings on in person to see what feels comfortable and looks pleasing to your eye. If you choose a band wider than 6mm, you may want to size up a quarter or half size as wider bands will fit tighter than thin bands.
Next, consider the style and finish. A popular style is called comfort fit, with a slightly domed interior that gives it a subtle rounded curve. As the name implies, this style is considered the most comfortable and easiest to fit over the knuckle. A half-round will have a more pronounced curve to the exterior, and a plain flat band will have a square edge and no contouring. The finish is the shine and texture of the ring. If you like a bright finish, choose a high-polish finish. A matte finish is smooth but cuts down on the brightness. A brushed finish offers a worn-in look, while a hammered finish offers the most texture.
Most importantly, have your ring finger properly sized! A quarter size can make a big difference in comfort, especially considering the impact of cold and hot weather. As such, visit your local jeweler and have a professional determine your size. If you are in the Los Angeles area, visit KFK Jewelers. We are happy to be of service on your ring-shopping journey.