Men's Wedding Ring Guide

Buying an engagement ring and wedding band for a woman might seem like a bigger task than choosing a man's wedding ring, but this misconception can lead to a lack of preparation and overall confusion when the decision needs to be made. Knowing a few things about buying a men's wedding band before you go shopping can help you simplify the process and make a smart choice.

Traditional vs. Modern
Before you get overwhelmed by the selection, first consider whether you want a traditional wedding band or something a little more unconventional and modern. If convention is the man's middle name, you'll probably want to stick to plain bands with no adornments or special sheens in customary metals such as yellow gold, white gold, silver or platinum. For a more distinct style, some men opt for unexpected materials like titanium, tungsten and ceramic, or even a band with diamonds, gemstones or other decorative details.

Wear and Tear
Durability and ease of maintenance are high on the list of concerns for ring buyers. While many guys find that a moderately durable metal works fine for their relatively low-impact jobs and hobbies, other men need a ring that will withstand harsh conditions.

Traditional metals like gold and platinum are easily scratched, and silver requires some occasional maintenance, as it can tarnish. However, these are great options if you want a ring that shines and if you don't find yourself participating in extreme sports very often.

Titanium is extremely durable and lightweight, although it doesn't offer the same shine as other metals. Likewise, tungsten is a good choice for a ring that will last a lifetime. It will resist scratches and tarnish, but it is heavier than most options. Some men opt for ceramic instead, since it has a bit of shine, is lightweight and doesn't tend to get scratched. However, it is not as common and is considered less impressive by some.

Budget
Cost is also always a consideration when buying wedding bands. The average cost of a men's wedding ring is around $600, with a range anywhere from $100 to several thousand dollars depending on the style and metal you choose. Plain bands made out of titanium and tungsten tend to be at the lower end of the price range, while platinum rings and those with diamonds and gemstones can often ring in at more than $3,000. A general rule of thumb is that the more decorative details on the ring, the higher the price gets. If budget is your main concern, stick with a solid ring in the metal of your choice.