BAND TOGETHER
With a range of design options to consider, it can be difficult to find the perfect wedding band to complement your engagement ring. Here, Bhria Vellnagel enlists the knowledge of Lexie Soklich from Soklich & Co. to help take the guesswork out of this pairing.
There is no jewellery duo more renowned than the engagement and wedding ring. When deciding on your wedding band, it should reflect your personality and style, while also complementing your engagement ring. “Always remember, in the years to come [your wedding ring] will be the lasting symbol of your partnership,” says Soklich.
IT’S A MATCH
To avoid any hassles on your big day, your ring should be chosen at least two months before the wedding. Deciding on the perfect ring can often be overwhelming, which is why narrowing down your favourite metal, gem and style is a good place to start. “We always advise our clients to think ahead when choosing the ring’s design,” Soklich says. “Think about how the engagement and wedding ring will fit together.”
Whether you’re a fan of rose gold, vintage-style engraving or show-stopping diamonds, you’ll need to find a band that will coincide with your beautiful engagement ring. Soklich’s favourite ring combination was recently discovered when a bride-to-be requested a rose-gold band to accompany her platinum engagement ring. “A very odd [request], as the engagement ring had no rose gold at all,” she says. “[However], it was the perfect ring for her.”
It’s best to find a wedding ring that mirrors some of the same elements as your engagement ring, such as its gem shape, cut, and band metal. While rings in contrasting tones may not be everyone’s cup of tea, they can create a truly unique effect.
A TREND TO REMEMBER
Popular engagement rings currently feature classic elements with a modern design, much like Meghan Markle’s luxurious three-stone ring. Soklich says she’s seen an increase in couples looking for rose-gold wedding bands. “We have [also had] a lot of interest in custom-designed and handmade wedding rings,” she says. “Our clients are looking for something that has a point of difference.”
Tickled Pink
Many brides are opting for coloured stones, such as sapphires and rubies, rather than classic diamonds. A favourite among many brides-to-be, pink Argyle diamonds from Western Australia have also become increasingly popular due to their rarity. “Right now, [due to the largest] Argyle [diamond mine] closing soon, a lot of brides want to have a couple of small diamonds in their rings,” says Soklich.
Hereditary Hero
Inspired by family heirlooms and vintage styles, Soklich says many brides are now putting a spin on the classic wedding band. “We love the classic styles, but we never want to make something ‘ordinary’,” she says.
A great way to pay homage to the dearly departed is by resizing an inherited ring. Soklich says many brides-to-be are also choosing to incorporate the gems from their heirloom jewellery into their wedding bands.
THE PERFECT FIT
When shopping for your wedding ring, it’s important to note that your favourite style may not suit your engagement ring. If your ring has a large stone, pairing it with a standard straight band may cause damage to both rings and can even pinch your finger.
Similarly, your ring may become damaged if you have a hands-on lifestyle. “As experienced jewellers, we spend a lot of time getting to know the bride in order to suggest the very best design and style to fit them and their lifestyles,” says Soklich.
Tough Stuff
If you want to follow in the footsteps of the ruling royals, then a simple gold band – set in 18 carats or under – is a wise decision. Not only is this precious metal a classic choice, but it’s also extremely easy to care for. Similarly, platinum has little chance of becoming damaged as it’s considered one of the world’s toughest metals.
Words of Wisdom
Instead of choosing valuable gems that require regular maintenance, you can opt for an inscribed ring. “We have had grooms wanting to engrave the inside of their partner’s ring with a personal message,” says Soklich. Popular inscriptions can include almost anything, from a romantic phrase to creative poetry. If you’re not one for words, consider having your ring engraved with vintage spirals or a timeless floral pattern.
Beautifully Bespoke
If you’re overwhelmed by the options available, Soklich suggests enlisting the help of a professional jeweller. “Make sure you deal with [a jeweller] who is prepared to take the time and effort to [ensure] you’re happy [with your ring],” she says. With years of professional experience in ring pairing, the jeweller will inspect your engagement ring and provide you with a number of options to select from, or offer a bespoke design. “[You should] design something that reflects you and your partner’s tastes,” says Soklich. “Trends come and go, but your ring should remind you of a love that lasts forever.”
With a vast range of styles to choose from, finding the perfect ring can be difficult. However, whether your engagement ring features coloured gems or contrasting metals, by adhering to the aforementioned advice, you’re sure to find your perfect match.
Image credit: Kevin McGinn Photographer
