When it comes to engagement rings, the band is just as important as the stones. While the diamonds make the first impression, the band helps the stone to shine. A band that is too small, too big, too over the top, too basic, or just not quite right can turn a stunning ring into something less than perfect.
What makes a perfect band, you may be wondering? To help you decide which band to choose, we’ve put together a list of things to consider. This ranges from metal all the way to overall balance.
Choosing Your Engagement Ring Band
Let’s take a look at some of the most important things to know when planning your custom-designed engagement ring.
The metal
Needless to say, the metal is an essential part of your ring. Choosing the right metal can include several factors. First, you may choose according to specific needs. Platinum, for example, is good for those with sensitive skin or allergies, as it is hypoallergenic. This metal is also the most durable, making it ideal if you have an active lifestyle. White gold is ideal for those wanting a cool-toned metal with a lower price point. Yellow gold is a classic metal that works with a huge range of ring styles. Rose gold is feminine, delicate, and ideal for those wanting something softer. If you want to make a statement, you may even choose a mixed metal band.
The width
Are you going for a minimal ring or a chunky design? Width is something you’ll need to consider. Thick shank bands are best for bolder styles. These should always suit the design to make the stone stand out without being overpowered by the band. If you have a thick band, you’ll need a larger stone or more than one stone. Standard-size bands can use pavé easily, but thicker bands are often too wide for pavé stones. Instead, you could look at channel settings, top and bottom pavé rows, or smaller stones placed in clusters. Very fine bands need to be kept simple, with smaller centre stones. Adding too many stones to the band can throw out the proportions. It can also increase the risk of stones catching on fabric, especially if you’re using prong settings.
The design
That brings us to our next point. The band plays a vital part in the ring design. There are many engagement ring styles out there. Some have classic plain or timeless pavé bands. Others have elegant stand-out bands. You have a huge variety of options that feature bands as part of the design. Split band rings are a good example. These are one of the most popular designs. Then, there are twisted bands, rope bands, double bands, wraparound bands, open bands, stacked bands, criss-cross bands, knotted bands, chevron bands, H-shaped bands, and many others. This can be rather overwhelming when it comes to planning your ring. The best way to choose your band style is to consider your hand size, the stone cut and size, the number of stones, your lifestyle, and, of course, your personal taste.
The details
Last, but not least, it helps to consider the details, too. When choosing your preferred style, you’ll need to take the ring details into account. As an example, a three-stone ring can be very simple or very bold, depending on the details added. You could have a classic platinum band that is not too wide and not too thin. This ring could have a round centre diamond, with two baguette diamonds on either side and personalised engraving inside the band. Or you may have an ultra-modern two-tone wraparound rose and white gold ring with a princess-cut centre diamond and a hidden halo. Details could include pavé, milgrain, hidden halos, unusual settings, coloured diamonds, diamond alternatives, engraving, knife-edging, or anything else that affects the look.
Ultimately, the band you choose should suit the ring itself. With that said, it should also be ideal for your individual style. This is an item of jewellery you will wear every day. A ring with the perfect band will ensure that it always looks good.
At Cape Diamonds, our goal is to help you find your dream ring. To find out more about how we help you plan the band, stone, and every other part of your engagement ring, contact us now.