Buying wedding rings: Everything couples need to know
Wedding rings are the most significant pieces of jewelry a couple will ever wear – symbols of a lifelong bond and a daily reminder of the promise made. It's no wonder that many couples attach great importance to choosing their wedding rings. This comprehensive guide will walk you step-by-step through all the important decisions when buying wedding rings.
When should you buy wedding rings?
As a rule of thumb: Start looking for wedding rings at least 3–6 months before the wedding. This allows ample time for:
- Comparing various jewelers and online shops
- Custom-made rings (3–8 weeks production time)
- Adjustments and possible corrections to ring size
- Engravings, which also take time
The right material for wedding rings
Wedding rings are worn for a lifetime – the material must be correspondingly durable and compatible:
Yellow Gold (585 / 750)
The most classic wedding ring material. Yellow gold is warm, timeless, and compatible. 14-karat gold (585) is more robust and scratch-resistant than 18-karat (750), but 18-karat has a richer, more noble color. For wedding rings, many jewelers recommend 585 yellow gold as the best balance between quality and everyday suitability.
White Gold
White gold looks like platinum but is more affordable. It is plated with rhodium, which creates the white-silvery surface. After a few years, the rhodium layer can wear off, requiring re-polishing (by a jeweler). Ideal for those who prefer the silvery look but don't have a platinum budget.
Rose Gold
Romantic, modern, and very popular. Rose gold wedding rings are especially sought after by younger couples. Due to the copper content, they are slightly harder than yellow gold. Important: Copper can trigger rare allergies.
Platinum
The noblest and most durable wedding ring material. Platinum is hypoallergenic, very dense, and permanently retains its white luster without re-treatment. It is more expensive than gold, but also significantly more durable. Especially recommended for people with sensitive skin.
Stainless Steel
An affordable, very durable option. Stainless steel wedding rings are scratch-resistant, allergy-free, and easy to care for. They are well suited for people who are active in crafts or sports and don't want to risk expensive metals.
Width and shape of the wedding ring
The width of the wedding ring has a significant influence on its appearance:
- Narrow (2–3 mm): Delicate and discreet. Ideal for women with small hands or as an addition to an engagement ring.
- Medium (4–5 mm): The most popular width. Neither too striking nor too subtle.
- Wide (6–8 mm+): Statement wedding ring. Very popular with men and women with larger hands.
In terms of shape, we distinguish between:
- Court shape (domed inside and outside): Comfortable, classic
- D-shape (flat inside, domed outside): Modern, elegant
- Flat shape (completely flat): Contemporary, good for engravings
Engraving in the wedding ring – personal messages
An engraving on the inside of the wedding ring is one of the most beautiful ways to personalize it. Popular options include:
- The wedding date (e.g., "14.06.2026")
- Initials of the partners ("A & M")
- A short phrase or promise ("Forever", "Always")
- A word that describes the relationship
- Coordinates of the place where you met
Should the wedding rings match?
Previously, a completely identical pair set was standard – today, it's purely a matter of taste. Options:
- Identical rings: Classic, harmonious, symbol of unity
- Complementary rings: Same metal, but different width or slightly different design
- Completely individual rings: Each chooses according to their taste – a trend among modern couples
Budget for wedding rings
As a rough guide per ring:
- €100–€300: Stainless steel or simple silver/gold options
- €300–€800: Quality yellow gold 585, simple design
- €800–€2,000: White gold, wider rings, stone setting
- €2,000+: Platinum, high-quality engravings, special designs
Wedding rings at Corelune Jewellery
At Corelune Jewellery, you'll find high-quality rings for every style and budget. Browse our ring collection and find the rings that will accompany you for a lifetime!
