Six Things To Consider When Planning To Purchase Wedding Rings

When you make the life-changing decision to get married, choosing wedding rings can be an experience either exciting and empowering, or confusing and intimidating. Sometimes couples have thoroughly discussed the rings they hope to wear for the rest of their lives, and sometimes they approach the process with no idea of what they’re looking for. Sometimes one partner surprises the other with a ring picked out for the proposal, and sometimes choosing rings in advance helps determine the perfect choice. 

Whether you are choosing a ring alone as a surprise or entering the process as a team, finding an experienced and knowledgeable jewelry professional will help make the journey exciting, educational, and successful. 

• Budget 

Wedding rings are physical symbols of a strong and lasting relationship that you will wear and appreciate for a lifetime. While this is an exciting purchase and usually a significant expense, deciding on a budget and sticking to it can keep the process from becoming overwhelming. Everyone’s circumstances are different. Some spend vast sums, some have formulas involving a percentage of their annual income, and some are comfortable using credit cards.
 
There are beautiful, long-lasting wedding rings in almost every price range. When you begin this adventure with your budget in mind, you will choose rings that will break the news without breaking the bank. 

• Style and Lifestyle 

When exploring ring designs, consider both the shapes and colors of different rings and the activities you will engage in while wearing them. A beautiful and delicate ring with a tall Tiffany center setting and dozens of melee diamonds down the sides of the shank may look beautiful in the jewelry store or during your wedding ceremony, but it may not hold up well while you are shoeing your horse or free climbing El Capitan.
 
You can choose between simple, elegant bands and complex, elaborate designs. You may work with your hands in situations that put jewelry, and fingers, at risk. Or maybe the biggest stretch your fingers make is to reach the backspace key on your laptop. If you spend time lifting weights or operating heavy equipment while wearing your ring, you may be happiest with a simple design made from durable materials. If your lifestyle doesn’t lead to many broken fingernails, then a complex or delicate wedding ring has a better chance of surviving without needing regular repair. 

• Quality 

When choosing rings, search for high quality jewelry that will last as long as your marriage. Platinum, gold, and silver are metals easy to maintain and repair, and many alternative metals resist damage well enough to come with lifetime warranties. And if your rings include gemstones, choosing the right setting can make the difference between delightful durability and having your jeweler’s phone number in your list of speed dial contacts. 

An experienced jeweler’s advice can help you choose a design that fits your lifestyle. Making an informed decision can lead to choosing an easy to maintain ring that will last a lifetime. 

• Fit 

Choosing the correct size and style makes wearing your ring enjoyable. A ring that’s too big will fall off or spin uncontrollably. A ring that’s too small will create challenges from inconvenient to painful. And a ring that is too wide or sharp can be both uncomfortable and dangerous.
 
Have your finger size measured accurately. Finger sizes change. Temperature changes, time of day, and differences in your diet can all affect the size of your finger. Ideally, have your finger measured multiple times to track how the size fluctuates. 

Choosing an attractive ring is exciting. And choosing a style that will comfortably fit your lifestyle is an important part of the process. To ensure a lifetime of trouble-free wear, look for a ring that will not restrict the movements you make every day. 

• Care and Maintenance

A little planning can make taking care of your wedding rings a simple routine. And choices you make at the beginning of the process can ensure your rings will last a lifetime with few unexpected repairs. 

Jewelry care plans are available when purchasing most new jewelry, and jewelry specific insurance is available for items that have been recently appraised. If your rings have gemstones, prongs, and/or delicate designs, normal wear and tear and occasional damage will need to be addressed. Care plans and insurance can take care of the cost of predictably expensive repairs. 

Regular cleaning with safe and effective jewelry cleaning solutions will keep your rings looking good, and prevent grit and chemicals from causing unnecessary damage. And feel free to bring your fine jewelry to Chipper’s for free cleanings and inspections. Our technicians will inspect your jewelry, bring necessary maintenance or repairs to your attention, and return your treasures sparkling clean. 

• Personalization 

Choosing to engrave names, dates, or special messages is a way to make the rings you’ve chosen uniquely yours. Decisions you make now will remind you in years to come when, how, and why you made this momentous decision. 

• Conclusion 

When it’s time to select and purchase wedding rings commemorating a decision that will last a lifetime, decisions you make now will affect your experience in the future. Research your options, and take advantage of the expertise of your local jewelry professionals to help make the experience one you’ll enjoy and appreciate for years to come.