The wedding band has historically been the symbol of marriage, devotion and everlasting
love. As the ring is a circle with no ends that diverge, it is
considered the perfect symbol of the union between two loved ones. In ancient times, it was believed that a vein from the fourth left-hand finger,
known as the “vena amoris” or vein of love, led directly to the heart.
It is for this reason that it has become
universally known as the ring finger and the finger on which the wedding band is worn.
When it comes to selecting wedding bands, both men and women should choose a design that is individual and comfortable, says Greg Meddick from Fairfax and Roberts.“Most clients go for diamond set
options… Fine diamond bead setting and millgrain finishing are the key
elements in our range.”
With an increased popularity of
diamond-set wedding bands for women, men can match their design by adopting the same metal for their ring. “The key element is to get the width right as well as the dome,” Greg says. “While men with smaller fingers tend to like flatter bands, a slightly domed band looks better on men with bigger hands.”
Greg says most couples are well prepared and start to purchase their wedding bands around four to six months prior to their wedding day. “We do have a wide range of bands in stock, but in case we have to
specially design and manufacture a band to meet the clients’ request or to match the engagement ring, the lead time is four to six weeks.”
Diamond wedding bands from Fairfax
and Roberts range from $3000-$15,000, depending on the diamond content and metal type, while plain bands start at $500.If you decide to choose a ring with diamonds, it’s important to do your research and know about the type of stone you are purchasing.A cleanly cut gem will have perfect symmetry and proportions – and often a hefty price tag. When shopping for diamonds, remember the four C’s; colour, cut, clarity and carat – and the larger and more clear the stone, the more expensive it will be.For those seeking a timeless style, whether it includes diamonds or not, vintage jewellery is always beautiful and can be a great way to add a touch of old-world glamour to your rings.
Melbourne jewellers, Keshett, specialises
in vintage and Art Deco
designs and antique wedding rings. “Vintage is different; they don't look like anything else,” director Paula Keshett says.Art Deco styles have a point of difference,
are eternal and, because the designs
don’t follow any trends, there’s no fear that the style will go “out of fashion”, Paula says.
Vintage rings borrow styles from the 1920s and 1930s and often pay attention to fine detail in the designs. Because of this, Paula says, there is something more sentimental and historic about wearing antique and
inherited jewellery, especially when it comes to wedding rings.Paula says antique jewellery is sought after because it is scarce yet wearable in today’s age. The style also offers a way for people to personalise their wedding rings because you can get the finer details that other styles can’t offer.
Antique and Art Deco designs
often reflect flat, fine bands and delicate
lace work with platinum metals, which is a very specialised craft and difficult technique.“Art Deco is beautiful yet subtle,” Paula adds.While most men opt for a conservative
design, free of jewels and fancy details, an antique-inspired style can offer a way for them to personalise their wedding bands.Paula says men generally don’t want anything too glitzy, but there have been a lot of requests for 9ct metals and black diamonds recently as a way to give their rings that point of
difference.
Usually, a classic, Art Deco design will appeal to men’s style preference, Paula says, but there are
options including a matte finish, dark oxidising and oxidised diamonds for those after a modern look.Roberto Ulas, director of EON Rings, says a wide range of wedding rings is available for men, from classic, plain bands to diamond set and multi-tone styles.“There is also high polish, cross-hatching and matte finishes to
consider,” he adds.Roberto says a lot of men opt for a two-toned, platinum finish or decide on a personalised pattern.“There’s now a trend for rose gold where a fine strip of rose gold is set against a white gold or platinum.
