What Are the Different Types of Wedding Bands? A Complete Guide

What Are the Different Types of Wedding Bands? A Complete Guide

| Reading time: 7 minutes

How do you choose the perfect wedding band that matches your engagement ring and reflects your unique style? With so many different types of wedding bands available today, from classic gold bands to modern designs featuring diamonds and other gemstones. It's important to know what are the different types of wedding bands to make the best choice. At Dorah Jewelry, we’ve conducted in-depth research into the most popular wedding band styles.

What Are the Different Types of Wedding Bands?

Wedding bands come in various types, each providing a distinct style and symbolism for couples.

  1. Plain Metal Wedding Bands
  2. Diamond Wedding Bands
  3. Colored Lab-Grown Diamond Wedding Bands
  4. Eternity Bands
  5. Anniversary Bands
  6. Fancy Wedding Bands
  7. Wedding Ring Wraps and Guards

Plain Metal Wedding Bands

Plain metal wedding bands are classic ring styles available in platinum, gold (white, yellow, and rose), titanium, and stainless steel. Known for their durability, low maintenance, and versatility, these types of rings are ideal for everyday wear. Plain metal bands are best matched with solitaire engagement rings and three-stone ring styles, where the focus is on the central stone. These engagement ring band styles complement the minimalist look, making them perfect for those who prefer a simple, classic appearance.

Two plain white and yellow gold wedding bands with minimalist design, highlighting different types of wedding bands.

Diamond Wedding Bands

Diamond wedding bands feature diamonds set in various ways, such as prong, channel, pavé, and bezel settings. The shape of the diamond can significantly influence the overall style of the band, offering a range of options to suit different tastes. Popular diamond shapes used in wedding bands include:

  • Round: The most popular shape, known for its brilliant sparkle and timeless appeal.
  • Princess: A square shape with sharp, clean lines, offering a modern and elegant look.
  • Emerald: Rectangular with step-cut facets that emphasize clarity and create a vintage feel.
  • Oval: An elongated shape that enhances finger length and provides a unique twist on the classic round.
  • Marquise: A pointed, boat-shaped diamond that maximizes carat weight and creates a dramatic, elongated effect.
  • Pear: A teardrop shape that combines the round and marquise styles, offering a soft yet striking appearance.
  • Cushion: A square or rectangular shape with rounded corners and larger facets, providing a soft, romantic look.
  • Asscher: A square shape with step-cut facets and a high crown, creating a distinctive, art-deco style.
  • Radiant: A square or rectangular shape with brilliant-cut facets, combining emerald elegance with a round sparkle.
  • Heart: A romantic, heart-shaped diamond symbolizing love, ideal for those who want a unique and personal touch.

These shapes provide a variety of styles, from classic to contemporary, allowing brides to choose a diamond wedding band that perfectly complements their engagement ring and personal style.

A woman wearing a yellow gold diamond wedding band showcasing different types of wedding band styles.

Colored Diamond Wedding Bands

Colored diamond wedding bands provide a vibrant alternative to traditional white diamonds, featuring stones in a range of hues like blue, pink, yellow, and green. While natural-colored diamonds are available, many opt for lab-grown colored diamonds due to their affordability and ethical production. Lab-grown colored diamonds offer the same beauty and brilliance as natural ones but with a more eco-friendly and sustainable process. These bands are perfect for those looking to add a personal touch and meaningful symbolism to their jewelry. They pair beautifully with vintage or halo engagement ring styles, where the added color can enhance the overall design, making them ideal for individuals seeking distinctive, vibrant rings.

Gold eternity band with cushion-cut blue diamonds, set in prong settings

Eternity Bands

Eternity bands are characterized by a full circle of diamonds or gemstones encircling the entire band, symbolizing eternal love and offering continuous sparkle. These types of rings are best paired with solitaire or pavé engagement rings to enhance the brilliance without overwhelming the central stone. Eternity bands are perfect for brides who want a statement piece that can stand alone or beautifully complement their engagement ring.

Stack of eternity bands in platinum, yellow, white, and rose gold,  with round brilliant-cut diamonds.

Anniversary Bands

Anniversary bands are similar to eternity bands but feature stones set halfway around the band. These ring styles provide comfortable wear and are often chosen to mark special anniversaries or milestones. Anniversary bands are best paired with solitaire or three-stone engagement rings, offering elegance without added bulk. These engagement ring band styles are ideal for couples celebrating significant moments.

Different types of anniversary bands in white, rose, and yellow gold with diamonds and sapphires.

Fancy Wedding Bands

Fancy wedding bands feature unique designs, engravings, or hammered finishes, offering a customized and personalized look. These types of rings are ideal for individuals who want a wedding band that stands out and reflects their personal style. Fancy bands pair well with solitaire or three-stone engagement rings, adding a distinctive touch without overshadowing the main diamond.

Fancy wedding bands in yellow, white, and rose gold with twisted designs and diamond accents.

Wedding Ring Wraps and Guards

Wedding ring wraps and guards are bands designed to frame an engagement ring, enhancing its appearance and providing additional security. These wedding ring styles are great for brides looking to upgrade their ring's look without altering the main stone. Wraps and guards are best paired with halo or solitaire engagement rings, providing both aesthetic enhancement and functional protection.

White gold wedding ring wraps and guards with white diamonds and a blue emerald-cut center stone.

Summary Table


Wedding Band Type

Benefits

Best Paired With

Plain Metal Wedding Bands

Durable, low maintenance, versatile, classic look.

Solitaire and three-stone engagement rings.

Diamond Wedding Bands

Adds sparkle and elegance, customizable with various diamond shapes and settings.

Solitaire and halo engagement rings.

Colored Diamond Wedding Bands

Unique and vibrant colors, eco-friendly, offers personalization and symbolism.

Vintage and halo engagement rings.

Eternity Bands

Symbolizes eternal love, continuous sparkle around the band.

Solitaire and pavé engagement rings.

Anniversary Bands

Comfortable, marks special milestones, elegant without bulk.

Solitaire and three-stone engagement rings.

Fancy Wedding Bands

Offers a unique, personalized look with custom designs and finishes.

Solitaire and three-stone engagement rings.

Wedding Ring Wraps and Guards

Enhances engagement ring appearance, provides extra security, protects the main stone.

Halo and solitaire engagement rings.


What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing a Wedding Band?

Material 

Choose a durable material like platinum, gold (white, yellow, rose), titanium, or stainless steel based on your lifestyle and aesthetic preferences.

Style and Design

Consider if you want a simple band or something with diamonds or gemstones. Ensure the design complements your engagement ring and matches your personal style.

Comfort and Fit

Opt for a band width and shape that feels comfortable for everyday wear. Comfort-fit bands, with rounded inner edges, are often more comfortable.

Customization

Personalize your band with engravings or unique designs to add sentimental value and make the ring truly yours.

Budget

Set a budget before shopping to narrow down your options and find a band that fits both your style and financial plan.

Long-Term Wear

Think about how the band will wear over time and whether it will require special care or maintenance to keep it looking its best.

Buying Tips

To make an informed decision when purchasing a wedding band, consider these factors:

Budgeting

Understanding the costs associated with different wedding ring styles and materials is crucial. Prices can vary widely depending on the metal, design, and any added gemstones. Set a budget that aligns with your financial plan and consider both the aesthetic and practical aspects of the band.

Quality Check

Ensure the band you choose is of high quality by checking the craftsmanship and materials. Look for even finishes, secure settings, and durable metals. If possible, obtain certification for the metal and gemstones to verify their authenticity and quality.

Where to Buy

Purchase your wedding band from reputable jewelers or trusted online stores like Dorah Jewelry. At Dorah Jewelry, you will find a wide range of ring styles crafted with precision and attention to detail. We provide clear descriptions, high-quality images, and strong customer service, making it easy for you to choose a band that perfectly matches your engagement ring. Look for businesses with positive reviews and clear return policies to ensure a smooth shopping experience.

Conclusion 

Choosing the right wedding band involves understanding the different types available, from plain metal and diamond bands to colored diamond, eternity, and anniversary bands. Each type offers distinct features and suits various engagement ring styles, making considering factors like material, design, comfort, and budget essential. By knowing your options and matching them to your personal style and lifestyle needs, you can select a wedding band that complements your engagement ring and stands as a meaningful symbol of your commitment.

If you enjoyed this article, check out our other blogs:

Do Wedding Bands Have to Match? Tips & Trends

Wedding Day Jewelry: Your Guide to Perfect Bridal Accessories

Wedding Band Ideas: Finding the Perfect Symbol of Love

What Is a Wedding Band? History & Types - Updated 2024

FAQs

What Are the Different Types of Wedding Bands?

  • Metal Wedding Bands: Made from metals like platinum, gold (white, yellow, rose), titanium, and stainless steel.
  • Diamond Wedding Bands: Feature diamonds in settings such as prong, channel, and pavé.
  • Gemstone Wedding Bands: Include colored gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds.
  • Eternity Bands: Bands with a continuous circle of diamonds or gemstones.
  • Anniversary Bands: Similar to eternity bands but with stones set halfway around.

What Are the 5 Common Types of Rings and Their Significance?

The five common types of rings are engagement rings, which symbolize a proposal and commitment; wedding bands, exchanged during the wedding ceremony to signify the union; eternity rings, given to celebrate significant milestones and represent eternal love; promise rings, representing a commitment or promise, often in a romantic relationship; and class rings, which commemorate a graduation and achievement in education.

What Is the Most Popular Wedding Band Shape?

The most popular wedding band shape is the classic round band, which is favored for its timeless and versatile design that complements most engagement rings and fits comfortably for daily wear.

Can Any Ring Be a Wedding Band?

Yes, any ring can technically be a wedding band as long as it holds personal significance for the couple. The key is choosing a ring that complements the engagement ring, fits the wearer’s style, and symbolizes the commitment of marriage.

How Do I Choose the Perfect Wedding Band?

To choose the perfect wedding band, consider factors like the metal type, style and design that match your engagement ring, comfort and fit for daily wear, potential for customization with engravings or stones, and your budget to ensure the band is both meaningful and practical for your lifestyle.