The Art of Finding the Perfect Wedding Band

by Sophie, NMJ Bespoke Designer

Choosing your wedding band can be one of the most exciting parts of planning your wedding, not only a chance to embrace an age-old tradition reflecting your commitment and love, it’s also an opportunity to tap into your creative side by choosing a forever piece that truly reflects your unique story. It can be an exciting, collaborative experience for you and your partner, and one which offers a new dimension to your personal journey with us.

Here at NMJ, we recommend starting the process early to ensure you minimise last minute pressures, and to ensure there is ample time to create your dream rings. To help you get started, we sat with Sophie, one of our bespoke designers, to gather her top tips about creating the perfect compliment to your engagement ring. 

More often than not, the existing engagement ring will dictate the best options for wedding bands. A wedding band should complement and add to the beauty of your engagement ring without competing or overshadowing. The two rings will be worn side by side for the rest of your life, so it’s important that they sit together comfortably.

When we guide our clients in their wedding band choices, we encourage a close look at the design features of their engagement ring, such as the band profile, setting, material and stone/s to determine which style of wedding band will be the best fit.

 

1  |  THE SETTING
An engagement ring with a setting that sits low to the finger can obstruct a straight wedding band from sitting flush alongside it. In this instance, a shaped band with an arch or point to frame the setting, such as the Evelyn Crown or Gentle Point Ring would be a good choice. A fitted, nesting band can be created to closely hug the setting, if less negative space is preferred.

If the setting of your engagement ring sits on top of the band, this opens up a more comprehensive range of wedding band options. To determine what you’re working with, take off your engagement ring and hold it up to see whether there is clearance underneath your ring’s setting where the band continues uninterrupted by the setting. If this is the case, you can likely work with a straight band rather than a fitted one, provided the depth is considered.

If you have a vintage piece you may need to consider something a little more bespoke. Often the unique gallery settings which are typical of vintage jewellery sit low on the finger and obstruct many traditional band choices.

 

2  |  BAND PROFILE
The thickness, depth and profile of the engagement ring should be considered when choosing a wedding ring, to ensure the two bands sit comfortably and do not structurally compromise each other. It's important to ensure that if there are stones in the wedding band, that these are not rubbing on the engagement ring anywhere, as this could lead to deterioration of the metal over time.

Aesthetically, keeping the two bands the same thickness and depth makes sense, and comfort wise this is generally a sound choice. That being said, introducing a wedding band or developing a bridal stack presents the opportunity to introduce varying textures, profiles and finishes - there are so many options to create something really personal and unique.

 

3  |  DESIGN

A classic, minimal engagement ring can present the opportunity to design a more detailed, interesting wedding band. Introducing accent diamonds, varying shapes or textures can enhance your engagement ring and add a whole new dimension to the design, making it feel more and more personal to you. Equally so, a refined, traditional wedding ring design can set off and highlight an engagement ring which perhaps features a striking stone or more complex design.

 

4  |  STYLE - TRADITIONAL VS MODERN

Wedding ring styles generally fall into two categories - traditional and modern. Traditional bands are timeless and classic, they showcase clean lines and beautiful detailing with a refined elegance. Our beloved Queenie Band, Fine Knife Edge Ring and Fine Round Ring are perfect examples of this. More modern choices are individually styled, featuring contouring shapes, textures and patterns. If you are looking for something truly unique, rings such as the Isabella Arc Ring and the new Everly Crown are NMJ favourites.

 

5  |  YOUR LIFESTYLE
What you do on a daily basis is an important factor to consider when deciding on your wedding band. If you lead an active lifestyle or your occupation is physically demanding, you may need to consider the setting style of any stones and the comfort and wearability of the ring. Your wedding band should fit easily into your day-to-day life and be comfortable to wear.

 

6  |  MAKE IT PERSONAL

There are so many ways to add a personal touch to your chosen wedding band. Introducing meaningful stones or thoughtful engraving are just the beginning of what’s possible. Embrace the handmade nature of our bands by making the design truly yours.

 

7  |  A NEVER-ENDING JOURNEY
Your bridal stack doesn’t have to solely consist of your wedding band and engagement ring, consider how you want to add to your collection over time. Eternity bands, anniversary gifts, milestones - your stack can be ever evolving. It's always helpful to start with a picture of the pieces you hope to wear together long term, to ensure these will work with your initial choices.

Can’t find a style that suits your ring? Ask an NMJ expert. We are committed to helping you find your dream ring, contact our team for a consultation.