By Toyosi Adeniji
When it comes to weddings, the rings are the most important and symbolic part of the ceremony. They represent the love and commitment shared between two people. However, choosing the perfect wedding ring can be daunting with the wide range of options available.
In this article, we'll explore wedding and engagement rings for every budget, from affordable to luxurious, so that you can find the perfect ring that embodies your love.
Understanding the Difference between Wedding Rings and Engagement Rings
Engagement rings are given at the point of proposal as a symbol of a person’s commitment to another, while wedding rings are exchanged at the wedding ceremony and represent the official bond of the marriage.
There are no official rules that stop you from using your engagement ring as your wedding ring; it all comes down to you and your partner's preference. You can check out our article to discover how to shop for engagement rings here.
They are both typically worn on the fourth finger of the left hand, which is believed to be connected to the heart by a vein. Some brides temporarily move their engagement ring to their right hand and return it to their left hand over the wedding band after the wedding.
When shopping for wedding rings, it's important to consider the following factors:
- Budget
- Style
- Metal
- Gemstones
- Fit
Affordable Wedding Rings
Not everyone has a large budget for their wedding ring, but that doesn't mean you can't find a beautiful and meaningful option. Here are some affordable wedding ring options to consider:
Sterling Silver Wedding Bands
Sterling silver is a durable and affordable option for wedding rings. It's a metal alloy made up of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, such as copper. Sterling silver wedding bands come in a range of styles and can be engraved for a personal touch.
Titanium Wedding Bands
Titanium is another affordable metal option for wedding bands. It's lightweight, durable, and hypoallergenic, making it a popular choice for those with sensitive skin. Titanium wedding bands can be found in a variety of styles, from simple to more intricate designs.
Cubic Zirconia Engagement Rings
If you're looking for an affordable engagement ring, consider a cubic zirconia option. Cubic zirconia is a synthetic stone that closely resembles a diamond but is much less expensive. It's a popular choice for those on a budget or for those who don't want to invest in a real diamond.
Mid-Range Wedding Rings
If you have a bit more wiggle room in your budget, you can consider some mid-range options for your wedding ring. Here are a few examples:
Gold-Plated Wedding Bands
Gold-plated wedding bands are a good option for those who want the look of gold without the price tag. These rings are made of base metal, such as sterling silver or brass, and are coated with a layer of gold. They come in a range of styles and are a more affordable option than solid gold.
White Gold Wedding Bands
White gold is another popular option for wedding bands. It's made by alloying gold with white metals, such as nickel or palladium, to create a silver-coloured metal. White gold wedding bands are a stylish and affordable option that can be paired with a variety of engagement ring styles.
Moissanite Engagement Rings
Moissanite is a lab-created gemstone that closely resembles a diamond but is much less expensive. It's a durable and sparkly option for an engagement ring and comes in a range of sizes and cuts. Moissanite is a popular choice for those who want the look of a diamond without the high price tag.
Luxury Wedding Rings
For those who have a larger budget and want to invest in a high-quality, luxurious wedding ring, here are some options to consider:
Platinum Wedding Bands
Platinum is a rare and valuable metal that is known for its durability and strength. It's a popular choice for wedding bands because of its beauty and resistance to wear and tear.
Diamond Engagement Rings
Diamonds are the classic choice for engagement rings, and for a good reason. They're the hardest and most durable gemstones, and their sparkle and brilliance are unmatched. A high-quality diamond engagement ring is a timeless investment that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Customized Wedding Rings
If you want a truly unique and luxurious wedding ring, consider having it customized. A skilled jeweller can create a one-of-a-kind ring that reflects your style and tastes. Customized wedding rings can be made with a variety of metals and gemstones and can include intricate designs and engravings. It has become quite common for people to put their fingerprints on their wedding rings.
Some rings are made of more than one material, a mixture of white gold and cubic zirconia or sterling silver and moissanite. Differentiating between the different types of rings might be confusing for you, so you can use this article as a guide when requesting the ring you want from your jeweller.
We've also compiled a list of Nigerian wedding rings vendors for every budget type on Instagram:
- Boz Jewelry
- Justrings.ng
- Zavandi Jewelry
- Azarai Jewelers
- Bands by mo
- Luchysrings
- Saint Tracy
- Delphimetals
- Eternal Gems
- Gemini Luxury
If you're sceptical about purchasing online, you can visit their walk-in stores or locate your local jeweller.
Conclusion
Finding the perfect wedding ring doesn't have to break the bank. With so many options available, there's something for every budget and style preference. Whether you opt for an affordable sterling silver band or a luxurious platinum and diamond ring, your wedding ring is a symbol of your love and commitment to your partner.
FAQs
What is the most affordable option for a wedding ring?
- Sterling silver wedding bands are a great affordable option for wedding rings.
What is the most durable metal for a wedding ring?
- Platinum is the most durable metal for a wedding ring, known for its strength and resistance to wear and tear.
What is the difference between white gold and platinum?
- White gold is a mixture of gold and other white metals, while platinum is a pure metal. Platinum is more durable and heavier than white gold but also more expensive.
Can moissanite be mistaken for a diamond?
- Moissanite closely resembles a diamond, but a skilled jeweller can tell the difference between the two.
Is it worth investing in a high-quality diamond engagement ring?
- A high-quality diamond engagement ring is a timeless investment that will be cherished for a lifetime. It's a symbol of your love and commitment to your partner, which can be passed down for generations to come
