Wedding Ring Guide
Introduction
Firstly, congratulations! Here you will find all the necessary information to help you find the correct wedding bands for yourself and partner. Traditionally wedding bands were worn on the third finger of the left hand - a practice which dates back to ancient Egyptians. It was thought that the vein on this finger leads directly to your heart. The circular shape of the ring also symbolises eternity, an unbroken circle of trust, with plain bands void of any stones or 'interruptions' that would break the circle. Whatever you believe, the lasting symbol of the wedding band is a piece of jewellery to cherish forever. Please remember, if you have any questions just ask!
Sizing
If you need to find out your ring size we offer a free professional ring sizing service in store! Simply pop in and we will assist you. We advise that before purchasing any rings you always have your finger sized. This is because finger measurements can change over time and vary from the right hand to the left hand. Be mindful that temperature can also effect your finger measurement - cold weather can reduce your size by 1 and a half in some cases! We appreciate that this may not be possible if planning a surprise - speak to our consultants for options on sizing AFTER purchase.
REMEMBER - The thicker the ring, the tighter the fit. If you choose a wide band you may need to increase your ring size.
Choosing the right metal
Below is a list of our most popular metal choice for wedding bands. Discover the properties of each metal by clicking on the list below. Please note - Palladium bands also available upon request or special order.
GOLD bands
We have a wide selection of gold wedding bands to choose from in stock. Although we can not stock every size, most bands can be special ordered in your size or adjusted in our workshop. If you still can't find what you're looking for, we also offer a bespoke ring design service. Speak to one of our sales consultants for more information.
YELLOW GOLD - Gold is naturally yellow, lightweight and versatile. It is the traditional choice for many due to the advantages gold offers over other metals. Yellow gold won't tarnish or corrode and is also dense in structure. Gold is also an affordable choice in comparison to other precious metals such as Platinum. Due to the malleable property of gold, it can also be worked into intricate designs.
WHITE GOLD - White gold is an affordable alternative to Platinum. It has a cool, white lustre and is available in both 9ct and 18ct. Most white gold pieces are also plating with Rhodium to give a bright finish. In time with constant wear the rhodium plating will wear so it is important to consider this when you purchase a white gold piece of jewellery.
ROSE GOLD - Rose gold is incredibly popular in modern times, however traditionally it has been used throughout the Victorian era and notably used in the 1920s by French jeweller Cartier. Available in both 9ct and 18ct, rose gold boasts a warm, rich hue that won't fade with time.
YELLOW GOLD - Gold is naturally yellow, lightweight and versatile. It is the traditional choice for many due to the advantages gold offers over other metals. Yellow gold won't tarnish or corrode and is also dense in structure. Gold is also an affordable choice in comparison to other precious metals such as Platinum. Due to the malleable property of gold, it can also be worked into intricate designs.
WHITE GOLD - White gold is an affordable alternative to Platinum. It has a cool, white lustre and is available in both 9ct and 18ct. Most white gold pieces are also plating with Rhodium to give a bright finish. In time with constant wear the rhodium plating will wear so it is important to consider this when you purchase a white gold piece of jewellery.
ROSE GOLD - Rose gold is incredibly popular in modern times, however traditionally it has been used throughout the Victorian era and notably used in the 1920s by French jeweller Cartier. Available in both 9ct and 18ct, rose gold boasts a warm, rich hue that won't fade with time.
DID YOU KNOW - The purity of gold is measured in caratage, with 24 carats signalling 100% pure gold. 24 carat gold is too soft to work with so instead we use gold alloys. Gold alloys are a mixture of gold and other metals such as silver, copper, nickel and zinc. By mixing these metals you can achieve a stronger material to with. It also allows for the creation of coloured golds such as rose gold.
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CHOOSE YOUR CARAT
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CHOOSE YOUR FIT
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CHOOSE YOUR SIZE
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SILVER bands
Sterling silver is an alloy created from a mixture of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals. Popular for it's pure, bright white appearance that can be polished to a high shine, silver is affordable and widespread. Silver is also relatively easy to work due to it's soft properties, which allows for intricate, creative designs. It is important to note that over time silver can tarnish through oxidisation. However, through regular cleaning and polishing silver will retain it's bright white appearance. The softness of silver also means that scratches will appear overtime.
As well as sterling silver pieces, we also stock Argentium silver bands. Beautifully designed, firestain resistant, durable, ductile and finer than sterling silver - this alloy is comprised of 93.5% silver which exceeds sterling silver. A perfect choice for those wanting quality without a high price. Ask our sales consultants for more information about Argentium bands in store today.
As well as sterling silver pieces, we also stock Argentium silver bands. Beautifully designed, firestain resistant, durable, ductile and finer than sterling silver - this alloy is comprised of 93.5% silver which exceeds sterling silver. A perfect choice for those wanting quality without a high price. Ask our sales consultants for more information about Argentium bands in store today.
DID YOU KNOW - Repair costs and ring sizing for silver are inexspensive. Sterling silver remains one of the most affordable precious metals.
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CHOOSE YOUR CARAT
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CHOOSE YOUR FIT
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CHOOSE YOUR SIZE
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TITANIUM bands
Titanium is a popular choice of metal for those looking for rings that are lightweight and durable. Titanium has the highest strength-to-weight ratio of all metals. It has excellent resistance to corrosion and because it is inert qualities, it has become the preferred metal used for body implants due to its hypoallergenic qualities. It is one of only 3 metals that physically changes colour under certain circumstances - when an electric current is passed through the metal it creates a rainbow of colour, allowing for creative, bold designs.
We stock a select range of Titanium bands, with many more designs available to special order. We can also offer a custom Titanium band service, allowing you to choose the colour / style / size of your piece. In most cases our titanium pieces will be handmade to order. It is also important to note that in most cases titanium cannot be soldered or repaired.
We stock a select range of Titanium bands, with many more designs available to special order. We can also offer a custom Titanium band service, allowing you to choose the colour / style / size of your piece. In most cases our titanium pieces will be handmade to order. It is also important to note that in most cases titanium cannot be soldered or repaired.
DID YOU KNOW - Titanium was named after the Greek god Titan
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CHOOSE YOUR CARAT
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CHOOSE YOUR FIT
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CHOOSE YOUR SIZE
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platinum bands
Platinum is one of the rarest of precious metals and therefore symbolic of the finer things in life. In comparison to gold, the annual production of platinum is only 7%* and geographically it can only be sourced from just a handful of locations including South Africa. Popular for it's cool white sheen and hard-wearing properties, Platinum is the metal of choice for those wanting luxury that lasts.
If you're looking to match your engagement ring, wedding band and commitment ring that Platinum is an ideal choice. The white sheen marries perfectly with diamonds, and as time passes the appearance of Platinum is considered to improve due to the patina. Strong and resistant to high temperatures, it's no wonder why Platinum is on average 30% more expensive that gold.
We have a select range of Platinum pieces in stock. More available to special order.
* Figures based on a 2009 report.
If you're looking to match your engagement ring, wedding band and commitment ring that Platinum is an ideal choice. The white sheen marries perfectly with diamonds, and as time passes the appearance of Platinum is considered to improve due to the patina. Strong and resistant to high temperatures, it's no wonder why Platinum is on average 30% more expensive that gold.
We have a select range of Platinum pieces in stock. More available to special order.
* Figures based on a 2009 report.
DID YOU KNOW - Platinum is hypo-allergenic. This is because unlike metal alloys there is NO nickel.
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CHOOSE YOUR CARAT
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CHOOSE YOUR FIT
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CHOOSE YOUR SIZE
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Eternity Rings
Many couples celebrate their continual everlasting love with an eternity ring. Eternity rings are split into two categories - half and full. Half eternity rings have a row of stones that run around just half of the band, leaving a plain section at the back. Full eternity rings have a row of stones that run around the full band. Similar to the wedding band, eternity rings are traditionally worn on the third finger of the left hand, next to the wedding and engagement ring. As these three rings are traditionally worn on the same finger, it is important to get a comfortable fit. The size may vary, depending on where the rings sit on your finger. Furthermore, you may wish to consider shaped eternity / engagement rings, to ensure that each piece sits together perfectly. Ask our sales consultants to show you examples of shaped rings such as 'wishbone' or 'V' shaped rings.
Bespoke Service
If you're looking for a bespoke band to perfectly fit an engagement ring, or a one-off creation custom made just for you then we can help. We offer a bespoke design service that allows you to create the ring of your dreams.
Furthermore, if you're looking to add a personalised touch to your wedding band why not consider hand engraving? Adding the wedding date or lover's initials is a fun way to create something unique. We work with an engraving specialist who can add lettering, characters and illustration to your ring. Prices charged per character starting from £10.50. To get started simply fill out the form below and we will get back to you asap, or speak to one of our sales consultants in store for more information. |
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Wedding Anniversary Celebrations
If you're celebrating a special anniversary or buying a gift for another, we have plenty of gifts to suit all. With many special gifts exclusively for anniversaries - including glassware, homeware and statement jewellery pieces, we're certain you will be able to find the perfect gift. Don't forget - if you're ordering with us, please allow at least 2-3 weeks for the item(s) to arrive. Browse our gallery for ideas, or simply view the table below. The 'suggestion' box details items we have in stock or can order just for you!
NUMBER |
TRADITIONAL GIFT |
SUGGESTION |
1st Anniversary |
Paper |
Luxury pen / pencil set |
2nd Anniversary |
Cotton |
Fabric-strap watch |
3rd Anniversary |
Leather |
Leather wallet, keyring, jewellery case, luxury watch strap |
4th Anniversary |
Fruit |
Fruit bowl, Moorcroft pieces, Dew's fruit themed jewellery |
5th Anniversary |
Wood |
Wooden jewellery boxes, traditional cladded wooden games |
6th Anniversary |
Confectionary |
Bon Bon dish, Murano glass sweets |
7th Anniversary |
Copper |
Range of copper jewellery in stock and to order; ring alloys |
8th Anniversary |
Bronze |
Cold-cast bronze figures, bronze-plated trophies/shields |
9th Anniversary |
Pottery |
Moorcroft Pottery, Old Tupton Ware, Poole Pottery in stock and to order |
10th Anniversary |
Tin |
Beer/lager glasses packaged in tins, Pewter pieces (Tin Alloy) |
11th Anniversary |
Steel |
Stainless steel watches & pocket watches, Fred Bennett jewellery, tankards |
12th Anniversary |
Silk |
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13th Anniversary |
Lace |
Lace designed silver hollowware |
14th Anniversary |
Ivory |
Ivory colour - moonstone, pearls, opals, enamel |
15th Anniversary |
Crystal |
Royal Scott crystal glassware, Dartington crystal glassware, swarovski crystal jewellery, swarovski crystal wall clocks |
20th Anniversary |
China |
Ceramic range by Churchill in stock and to order |
25th Anniversary |
Silver |
Sterling silver (925) & Argentium silver (935) jewellery |
30th Anniversary |
Pearl |
Fresh water, cultured pearl jewellery |
45th Anniversary |
Sapphire |
Sapphire jewellery, fancy coloured sapphires to order |
50th Anniversary |
Gold |
Gold chains, cufflinks, charms, St Christopher pendants and lockets in 9ct, 18ct and 22ct. |
55th Anniversary |
Emerald |
Emerald and faux emerald jewellery in stock and to order |
60th Anniversary |
Diamond |
Diamond set Citizen/Seiko watches |