Throughout history, rings have held symbolic meaning. While we commemorate our love and commitment by exchanging wedding rings today, this wasn't always a time-honored tradition.
We'll take a brief look at the history of men’s rings and their evolution into wedding rings. We’ll also share some of our favorite men’s wedding bands to consider for yourself or your husband-to-be.
The Original Symbolism of Men’s Rings
For centuries, lavish rings graced the fingers of men around the world. While each culture held its own traditions for using men’s rings, many were similarly worn to signify one’s power, boast wealth, and prove status.
A man’s ring was also used to celebrate a victory or milestone. Worn proudly, they often marked accomplishment and commanded respect.
Men’s Rings of Ancient Egypt
The Pharaohs and wealthier men of ancient Egypt often wore ornamental, unique men’s rings upon their right hands. Yet, they were not worn as symbols of love or marital commitment. Instead, their rings revealed their social class and position of authority. Men of lower classes wore rings made from inexpensive materials, including bone.
During this period, wedding ceremonies did not include the exchange of women’s or men’s wedding bands.
Men’s Rings of Ancient Rome
Roman emperors were known to gift their most distinguished soldiers with gold rings. The wealthy wore gold men’s bands, while lower-class men wore rings made from silver. Even slaves wore iron bands displayed for all to see.
Around this era, women received betrothal rings, but there were no men’s wedding bands exchanged.
Ecclesiastical Men’s Rings
Although the women’s wedding band became more widely used throughout various cultures, the men’s wedding band still did not catch on. Ecclesiastical men’s rings were extravagantly designed to boast wealth and became popular in the 19th century. Clergymen were known to wear multiple rings to symbolize their authoritative position within the church.
The Influence of the War on Men’s Wedding Bands
It wasn’t until World War I that men began to embrace the symbolism of the wedding ring. As they prepared to ship off to war, the men’s wedding band became a way for some to keep their wives and children close to their hearts while away.
By the Second World War, the men’s wedding ring had caught on. The '50s saw men embracing the men’s wedding band and accepting it as a new wedding tradition.
Selecting a Men’s Wedding Band
While it may not seem as difficult as shopping for a women’s engagement ring, there is still much to be considered in your search for your unique men’s ring. From men’s ring metal to fit to classic or modern men’s wedding bands, there are a few factors to take into account before committing to your forever band. Let us guide you through a few considerations you’ll want to make with this helpful guide.
Considering Options of Men’s Wedding Band Styles
Women aren’t the only ones with dazzling diamonds gracing their fingers. Traditionally, men chose to wear a solid metal men’s wedding band. However, over time, men’s wedding rings added diamonds and gemstones to fit their personal style or match their fiancé’s wedding band style.
Soon, gold and silver weren’t the only metals a man wanted in his collection. With the growing trends, modern men’s wedding rings featuring men’s ring metals varying in color and luster gained more popularity, as did the combining of metals and the addition of accent stones.
Men’s wedding bands offer step cuts, engraved design, hammered finishes, and more. The men’s wedding ring has become his subtle fashion statement.
Considering the Width of the Band
Choosing a men’s wedding band style also includes selecting a width that is both appealing and comfortable. For example, most men’s wedding rings range from 4mm to 8mm.
Thin rings will generally be lighter in weight and easier on the pocket. Medium to wide bands tend to look better perched upon larger or longer men’s fingers. But, ultimately, it all comes down to preference and comfort.
Selecting a Men's Ring Metal
Men now choose from a variety of metals beyond traditional gold and silver. While some men’s wedding bands are designed for appeal, others are created for durability. Black is a stylish choice for the modern men's wedding band.
If your husband-to-be is a rugged outdoorsman, ideal men’s ring metal choices may be tungsten, stainless steel, and titanium. These fine metals can withstand his toughest day on the job or long hiking adventures. They’ll take a few bumps and scratches without worry.
Understanding Men's Ring Profiles
Your band’s profile refers to the shape of its outer surface. For some men, the profile adds to the appeal of the unique men’s ring design.
4 Basic Ring Profiles
- Classic court (most traditional) – round both inside and out
- Flat ring – flat both inside and out
- D-shaped ring – a thin, round outside with a close, flat inner surface
- Flat court – flat on the outside with a rounded interior
3 Stylish Men’s Wedding Rings to Consider
If your man wants to venture outside of the classic men’s wedding band styles, we have a few suggestions that may catch his eye. From casual to formal, these modern men’s wedding bands pair well with any look:
- Triton RAW Rose Gold and Grey Tungsten Men’s Ring
- Men’s Black Sapphire Band
- Men’s Diamond Wedding Band
Rose Gold and Tungsten Men's Wedding Ring
This finely crafted men’s wedding ring will catch the attention of all. The perfectly paired rose gold and matte grey combination is undeniably stunning. In addition, the unique men’s ring is designed with a step edge cut for added depth and appeal.
Black Sapphire Unique Men's Ring
This white tungsten carbonite unique men’s band boasts beautiful black sapphires around the center. It’s unique, stunning, and masculine, all wrapped up in one modern men’s wedding band.
Men's Wedding Bands with Diamonds
Whether you love the look of matching wedding bands or he already has his eye on stones, a stunning diamond men’s wedding band always makes a unique men’s ring choice.
With a variety of styles, metals, and weights to select from, one of our favorite modern men’s wedding bands with diamonds is the Two Tone Brushed and Polished Wedding Band with Diamonds. The brilliant round diamonds are perfectly set within the groove of 14k white gold surrounded by 14k yellow gold make for a unique men’s ring.
Caring for Your Wedding Band
As with any jewelry piece, keep the wedding band stored in a dry, secure place when it’s not being worn.
Occasional, gentle cleaning is recommended in between your regular jewelry maintenance checkups. You can soak your men’s wedding ring in a warm solution of warm mild soap for up to 30 minutes. A soft cloth is ideal for drying and removing leftover debris without scratching your metal or stones.
We’re confident you’re armed with the knowledge to start looking for the perfect classic or modern men’s wedding band. With these helpful tips, you are sure to find the ideal wedding ring for him. Visit us at one of our Fink's Jewelers locations today and allow us to be a part of your wedding band search.
