Deciding on the Type of Ring That's Right for You

When most people picture wedding rings, they think of a plain gold band. It might surprise those people to know that, while gold remains a popular choice for wedding bands, it's not the only choice. Both gold and platinum are frequently chosen for wedding rings because they are both valuable, beautiful, and durable metals. Good quality gold and platinum make beautiful rings and will last long beyond the span of a couple's marriage.

Gold And Platinum Wedding Ring Styles

Gold is, of course, the more traditional setting, but platinum is not far behind it in popularity. Couples choose one or the other based on several factors, but in many cases it simply comes down to which one fits your style best. Don't just consider your present style, though. You are planning to wear this ring for the rest of your life, so make sure to choose something you will be happy with for that long.

What do you want your wedding ring to say about you and your partner? Platinum is often geared toward a more contemporary look, while gold tends toward the more conservative. Of course, these general truths can work just the opposite. A good jeweler can design a modern-looking gold ring or a classic-looking platinum if so desired.

Considering Your Current Jewelry Selection

You will also want to consider the jewelry you already have. Do you have more gold, silver, or a variety of each? Some brides and grooms simply prefer more muted silver tones in their jewelry and may already have an extensive collection of silver jewelry. If this is the case, a platinum ring would look right at home among the other platinum, white gold, or silver jewelry that you wear. The same can be said of a jewelry collection that is predominantly gold - a golden wedding ring would be the standout piece of such a collection. Brides should consider other important rings, necklaces and bracelets that they wear and grooms should look at what color their watch or other rings are.

Planning for Your Skin
If you have sensitive skin or skin allergies, you might find that platinum is the better choice in this situation. Some people have bad reactions to gold, but platinum is over 90% pure and almost never causes people to have allergic reactions.

Looking at Your Budget
Another consideration is the cost - platinum costs more than gold. This is because it is a stronger and more durable metal than gold, making it even more valuable. A golden wedding band will last for a very long time, but a platinum one will last even longer. Some people find the symbolic value of wearing this most enduring of metals to be worth the extra cost and many people hope to pass on their jewelry to future generations. For these couples, platinum is a good choice. The durability of gold is at its highest at 14- or 18-karats - any higher than this and the shine is brighter but the metal is weaker.

If you still prefer silver-toned metals, but find that the more expensive prices are simply too far out of your range, you could consider white gold instead of platinum. White gold is true gold, with all the properties of gold, but due to its mineral makeup appears more silver than yellow. Many couples choose this elegant alternative to both platinum and the more traditional yellow gold.

Whatever your choice - platinum, gold, or white gold - your rings will be beautiful and enduring. They will be a reflection of your commitment that will last for generations to come.