How Wide Should My Engagement Ring Band Be?
Choosing the perfect engagement ring and wedding band set is a huge endeavour as there are so many elements to consider. We've discussed choosing the right diamond and the difference between natural and lab grown diamonds, and the next factor is the width of your ring bands.
How wide should my engagement ring band be?
Just like precious metals and diamonds, band width trends change over time, varying from wide and bold to thin and dainty. The choice ultimately comes down to personal preference but there are some pointers that will help guide your choice in the right direction. We spoke to luxury engagement ring and fine jewelry brand With Clarity to find out how wide your engagement ring and wedding band should be. Let's dive in...
Consider the size of your diamond
Ring width is measured in millimeters (mm) and the size and weight of your diamond will ultimately dictate the width of your band. The average engagement ring width falls between 2mm and 6mm, with 3mm and 4mm being the most standard.
While thin, dainty bands are on trend right now, anything thinner than 3mm will struggle to support a stone bigger than a carat. Conversely, if you go for a small stone, a wider band will make your diamond look even smaller, while a thinner band will make it appear larger. A band between 3mm and 4mm will give you the most flexibility in terms of stone size and shape as it can support a wide range of diamonds and styles.
Consider the type of metal you choose
The type of metal you choose can have an effect on the width of your band due to the durability of different materials. Yellow gold and white gold, for example, are softer metals so a thin band can wear and bend more easily. Platinum and palladium on the other hand, are extremely durable so lend themselves well to elegant narrow bands that will stand the test of time.
Consider your hand and finger size
If you have small hands and fingers, a wide band may look bulky and cumbersome. A thinner band, something around 2mm, may better complement your delicate fingers. On the flip side, anyone with larger hands or thicker fingers may find that dainty thin bands feel out of proportion and don't suit them as well as wider, more statement bands of 4mm or more.
Consider your lifestyle
The more wear and tear your ring is exposed to, the more likely it is to suffer damage, such as scratches, dents, and breaks. If you work with your hands in a manual job or have a very active lifestyle, a wider band in a stronger metal will reduce the wear and tear, as well as protect the diamond better.
Consider your personal style
Once you have considered all the main factors, the choice of ring band width will ultimately come down to personal style and taste. For example, if you love the stacked ring look, thinner bands work best for this. However, if you like bold statement pieces with additional stones and intricate designs, you'll need a thicker band of 4mm or above to support the extra details.
Once you have chosen the width of your engagement ring band, it is traditional to have a wedding band of the same width for a balanced and polished aesthetic. However, the current trend is to mix band widths for a unique look with added dimension and option for stacking. Of course, you can't beat visiting a jeweler to try on a variety of styles, or order online with a 'try before you buy' service, like With Clarity's Home Preview. Alternatively, why design your own engagement ring?
Consider a custom engagement ring
Custom engagement rings are an increasingly popular choice for couples who want more choice and flexibility over their ring design. You get to work one-on-one with ring designers and gemologists to create a truly customized engagement ring - selecting every detail of the stone and band to suit your personal requirements. It's a fun and exciting experience that adds extra sparkle to your choosing your dream engagement ring.
To experience these rings in person, With Clarity has an appointment-only showroom located in SoHo, New York. The showroom includes personalized, consultative experience with a jewelry specialist where you have the opportunity to explore the brand with comfort and confidence. You will explore a curated collection of lab diamonds with our experts on hand to answer all your questions and guide you through choosing an engagement ring you will treasure forever.
