What are the best metals for wedding and engagement rings?
Hello friends!
When it comes to choosing your engagement and wedding rings, the metal you select is just as important as the design itself. Your ring should not only look stunning but also stand the test of time. With so many choices out there, it can feel a bit overwhelming, but don’t worry— I’ve been working with these metals since I started at Art School in 1997 (yes they let us loose with sterling silver on Day One!), so I can guide you through the best metals for your ring, from classic choices like silver and gold to luxurious platinum. Plus, we'll touch on the beautiful gemstones that can make your ring truly one-of-a-kind.
Silver Wedding and Engagement Rings
Silver is a fantastic choice for an affordable wedding band and is known for its versatility and elegant, bright white colour. It’s got that classic shine but does come with its quirks— it is a softer metal than gold, so is less durable, but for a budget friendly wedding ring silver is an option worth considering.
I offer both Eco Silver and Fairmined Silver. Eco Silver is 100% recycled, ensuring no new mining is required—perfect for those of us looking to keep our environmental footprint as light as possible. Fairmined Silver, on the other hand, comes from responsible artisanal and small-scale mining organisations. It's a bit more of an investment, but it ensures ethical sourcing and supports local communities, making it a choice you can feel really good about.
Gold Wedding and Engagement Rings
Gold remains the gold standard (pun intended!) for wedding rings, and it’s easy to see why. Whether you're drawn to the warm glow of yellow gold, the contemporary feel of white gold, or the romantic hue of rose gold, gold’s durability and beauty make it a top pick for rings meant to last a lifetime.
9ct Gold is the most budget-friendly gold option and has a lighter, more subtle hue compared to higher carat golds. It's tough enough to last through years of wear, although it doesn’t quite reach ‘heirloom’ status. If you love a softer gold tone and aren't planning on stacking it with higher carat rings (the different carats have different wear rates), it could be the perfect choice for you.
18ct Gold is my most popular choice for wedding and engagement rings—and for good reason! It’s got that gorgeous, rich depth of colour that really feels special, plus it doesn’t tarnish and holds its value beautifully. It’s also wonderfully durable, though I always recommend taking off your rings when gardening, bathing, exercising, or doing anything that could risk damage. Let’s keep those rings safe and sound!
A note on plating - you’ll find on the high street that often white gold rings are rhodium plated, which gives a brighter whiter finish to the metal, but this wears off quite quickly and needs re-plating (sometimes also called “dipping”). It also covers up the glorious natural warm colour of white gold, so rhodium plating isn’t something we do here at HLL.
Platinum Wedding and Engagement Rings
Platinum is the epitome of luxury in the world of wedding rings. It’s one of the rarest metals, known for its stunning shine, durability, density, and resistance to tarnish. If you love that sleek, steely-white look and have the budget, platinum could be your perfect match. It’s also the best metal for holding gemstones securely, which is why many choose it for engagement rings. Plus, it has a lovely, weighty feel on your finger—there’s just something so satisfying about it!
Gemstones
Let’s talk about adding a bit of sparkle to your ring. The gemstones and diamonds I use are carefully selected from reputable suppliers in London who guarantee ethical sourcing. We also offer Fairtrade gemstones and Canada Mark diamonds for bespoke commissions, ensuring that every stone meets our high ethical standards.
My most popular choices for engagement rings are Canada Mark diamonds and Fairtrade Montana sapphires. Blue Topaz Engagement Rings are also increasing in popularity. These stones not only bring a stunning touch of colour or sparkle but also carry a story of responsible sourcing—something that’s close to my heart. Whether you’re after a classic diamond or something a little more unique, like a vibrant sapphire, we can work together to create a ring that’s as special as your love story.
FAQs:
How much does a platinum wedding band cost? Our platinum rings start at £2100, but the final cost will depend on your chosen design and any extras like gemstone settings.
What carat gold is best for wedding rings? The best carat depends on your priorities. If you’re after durability and that rich gold colour, 18ct is the way to go—it’s perfect for an heirloom piece you can pass down through the generations. For a more affordable option that still offers longevity, 9ct gold is a great choice.
Do wedding bands have to match? Not at all! Your wedding bands are a reflection of your individual personalities and styles. Some couples love a coordinated look, for example, two coastline, skyline, or mountain range rings that represent a place that’s special to both people, while others go for rings that are completely different from one another. The most important thing is that your rings feel right for you.
How to get a custom engagement ring made? Getting a custom engagement ring is simpler than you might think! Just get in touch with your ideas, and we’ll work together to create something unique and special. I can even repurpose your old jewellery and gemstones, making your ring not just beautiful, but full of personal history.
Can my old jewellery be repurposed into jewellery? Absolutely! Repurposing old jewellery is not only a beautiful way to honour sentimental pieces, but it’s also environmentally friendly and often more cost-effective than starting from scratch. Just reach out to me, and we can discuss your vision and the possibilities.