We recognize that the bride usually gets the majority of the attention when it comes to wedding planning. But Gents – this article is for you! With millions of customization options for men’s wedding bands, let’s break down a few important details:

Metal Choice 

Precious Metal bands are made of gold, silver, and platinum. They are fully resizable and repairable throughout the life of a ring, and they tend to be less reactive than other metals. Platinum is a great option for those needing a hypoallergenic ring. 

There are also alternative metals, which provide a myriad of color options, are largely more scratch resistant, and many are hypoallergenic. 

The Metal: Cobalt Chrome
The Look: Similar to White Gold
Features: Hard, durability of aerospace alloys, never to wear thin

The Metal: Damascus Steel
The Look: Two types of steel that are twisted and folded to create a one-of-a-kind design
Features: Increased hardness, strength, resistance to shattering

The Metal: Titanium
The Look: Medium Grey 
Features: Hypoallergenic, will show wear over time, but has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of any metallic element

The Metal: Zirconium
The Look: Black
Features: Hypoallergenic, lightweight, the hard black oxide never wears off

The Metal: Tantalum 
The Look: Deep gunmetal grey
Features: Hypoallergenic, similar in weight to platinum, can be resized up to one size

Ring Width

Men's bands come in a variety of width options ranging from 2mm - 10mm. The most common widths range between 4mm-7mm, but you'll want to try on the different options to see what looks and feels best on your hand. 

Customizations

An inlay is a special feature represented on the outside of your ring and can be made of hardwood, meteorite, dinosaur bone, mosaic, and cerakote just to name a few. They are typically a few millimeters wide and can be positioned how you’d like (i.e. centered, or offset).  A sleeve covers the inside of your ring — a great way to add a personal touch without affecting the overall exterior look. If there's a short quote, sound byte from a sentimental song, or even your wedding date and initials that you'd like to engrave on the inside of the ring, that can be done as well! 

Shopping Tips

Try many options – Don’t be shy! While you may not have a pinterest board full of inspiration photos, take some time to screenshot a few options that you are interested in. When you come to our showroom, our staff will guide you to try similar options as well as some that you may never have thought of. We want you to be confident in your design choices!

Sizing – Your wedding ring is likely the first ring that you’ve ever worn, so it may feel a little awkward at first. Our sales associates will look for the best seasonal fit where it won’t slip off in cooler weather, but won’t be uncomfortable when your hands swell during the summer. Not to worry — we always double check your size while you’re in the store to confirm the best fit. 

Choose a wedding band that you intend to wear – We hear it all the time: “I’ll just get a silicone ring because a nice ring will get beat up anyway.” The sentiment of a wedding ring is forever. Plus rings are meant to be worn and stand the test of time! There are a variety of finishes, or surface textures, such as satin, distressed, or hammered polishes that can effectively provide texture upfront, if that’s your preference. Additionally, if you choose a ring made of precious metal, our master jeweler is able to refinish your ring, so that it looks as good as new!  

Colonial Jewelers has helped Frederick get married for over 75 years, and we cannot wait to be a part of your special day. Shop our Wedding Band Event on March 21st - 23rd for the very best selection. When you book an appointment, you’ll receive $100 off your purchase plus special interest free financing options. We look forward to helping you find the perfect wedding band!