Matching Wedding Rings for Couples – Choose the Perfect Set

It’s the most instantly recognisable symbol of everlasting love, a commitment to one another, and the significance of the marriage ceremony. The wedding ring has been given as a token of love and dedication for thousands of years, dating back to ancient Egypt. The ring is a symbol of eternal love, without beginning or end, and is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand.

The tradition of wedding couple bands is deeply ingrained in our culture, and today, matching wedding rings also represent the link between two kindred souls. In this article, we will examine the symbolism and history of wedding rings, as well as the resurgence of the tradition of matching wedding rings for couples.

We’ll also explore the various styles available and how to select wedding ring sets for him and her that reflect both your feelings for one another, as well as more practical considerations, such as all-day comfort, cost, and durability. We’ll also point you to some brands that offer a good selection of wedding ring sets.

Why do we wear wedding rings? A brief history

Exchanging or giving wedding rings is a tradition with very deep roots. The ancient Egyptians started the practice, using the never-ending circle of a ring to signify everlasting devotion and commitment. The Romans adopted the idea of giving loved ones a betrothal ring to signify their commitment to one another. Both the Greeks and the Romans introduced the custom of wearing the ring on the fourth finger of the left hand, believed to be the home of the ‘Vein of Love’ or Vena Amoris.

During the Middle Ages, wedding rings became more ornate and were made from precious metals like gold. Seen as a sign of wealth and status, the more embellished a ring was as part of a dowry, the more socially powerful the bond; rubies were particularly popular. During the Victorian period, diamonds, which were now being extensively mined in Africa and other regions, became a symbol of everlasting love and strength, with engagement rings beginning to gain popularity.

The idea of a man wearing a wedding ring is relatively recent. Men fighting in WWII started wearing a simple band to keep the love of a partner close to them while they were deployed, and this idea carried on into the latter half of the 20^th century.

Today, we naturally think that a wedding ring and engagement ring will be a part of our lives when we get married. But in recent years, the concept of matching wedding rings for couples has developed into a popular trend.

Why wear matching wedding rings?

The amount of symbolism associated with wedding rings is indisputable. Matching wedding rings adds a whole new layer to that concept, introducing not just a never-ending love and bond between two people, but a strong sense of unity, harmony, and equality. For some, coordinated rings also symbolise their shared journey through life and their chosen lifestyle, and can even represent an act of defiance as they stand together against the world. Alternatively, they may prefer the idea of having matching rings. Choosing wedding rings is a profoundly personal decision, and selecting to wear similar rings is just as special and individual as choosing mismatched rings.

Different styles of matching wedding rings

Once you and your partner have decided to pick your bands together, it’s time to select the style. Do you go for something simple to represent the purity of your love for one another, or do you throw convention to the wind and pick something more ornate? Let’s have a look at some of the most popular matching wedding rings for couples.

• Classic bands – Simple and timeless, the classic bands you’ll find in many wedding sets for him and her are usually made of yellow gold, white gold, or platinum, which are identical in design but differ in size. The ‘him’ band is generally wider, while the ‘her’ option is narrower. 
• Engraved bands – Engraved with a special message on the inside of the band (usually the couple’s names and the date or a personalised message), engraved matching wedding bands are a unique gift for the couple. Engraved bands can also feature fine engraving on the outside to add a decorative element.
• Vintage-inspired bands – If you love your history or want to honour a family tradition, vintage-inspired wedding rings are a perfect choice. They can feature touches such as Milgrain detailing (where tiny bead-like adornments run along the edges of the band), delicate filigree work popular during the Victorian and Edwardian period, or the elegance and symmetry of Art Deco design, with baguette diamond accents and geometric shapes.
• Rare or unusual bands – Don’t restrict yourself to gold or platinum. These days, there are lots more distinctive designs to choose from, such as featherlight titanium, the unique patterns of Damascus steel, or inlay bands that can include something very special to you both such as grains of sand from the beach where you got engaged. Inlay bands are infinitely customisable and hugely popular with modern couples who want to add a special and highly individual element to their matching wedding rings.
• Custom-made bands – Wedding rings are readily available in jewellery stores, but sometimes you want something a little more personalised and individual. Being involved in the design process also gives your rings even more meaning and makes them very special. Talk to a skilled goldsmith or jewellery designer to create your very own matching his and hers wedding rings or identical rings that hold a special message for you and your partner.
• Modern styles and concepts – Matching wedding rings for couples include the idea of telling a story or representing ethical values. For example, gold sourced from responsible mining operations may represent your love of the environment, or a distinctive asymmetrical design may signify your refusal to compromise to everyday norms. Modern styles can convey your sense of identity, your shared beliefs, and your lifestyle.
• Minimalist bands – If you prefer the subtlety of understated elegance, minimalist bands are a perfect choice. Plain, simple, and discreet, they’re the ideal option for those who prefer a sleek, minimalist look. Choose a brushed rather than a polished finish for an even more design-led statement piece.
• Culturally inspired bands – As we embrace our history and culture, bands inspired by lineage are increasingly popular among couples. If your ancestry is Scandinavian, Persian, or African, designs that incorporate symbols and patterns that are found in your culture are a perfect addition to your coordinated rings.

• Themed rings – From floral flourishes to Art Deco symmetry, an animal symbol that holds meaning for you both, or a ring that reminds you of time spent by the ocean, themed rings are an unusual and unique way to celebrate a shared concept.
• Diamond and gemstone accents – Diamonds never lose their appeal as a representation of the strength of love between two people. That’s why they’re just as popular today as they ever were. Now, other gems are joining them as accents in wedding rings, including coloured gems like sapphires and even black diamonds, as well as pearls.
• Identical bands – The same metal (or mixed metals), the same design, the same width and even the same engraved message inside each one, identical wedding bands show how connected you and your partner are.

The different ways to match your wedding ring with your partner

You may like different things, but that doesn’t mean matching wedding rings are out of your reach. The easiest way to match your wedding ring with your partner’s is to include elements that you both like. This can range from the materials used (such as mixed white and yellow gold designs), the type of metal, any gemstones or inclusions, or that most personal of features: an engraved message. A typical way to signify two becoming one is with a heart design that’s divided into two, but when brought together, becomes whole again.

Other ideas include a twisted or winding design in your ring that symbolises the two of you eternally joined on your journey through life. How about choosing gemstones that match the colour of your partner’s eyes? For example, if your eyes are blue and your partner’s eyes are green, consider having rings designed with gemstones of those colours and swapping them so you are constantly reminded of your partner’s gaze.

The art of creating a pair of coordinated rings that still reflect your individuality is to collaborate on a design that appeals to both of you. 

Brands that have a good selection of matching wedding band styles

Certain brands and outlets specialise in creating beautiful, matching wedding rings for couples who want something special.

• Orla James – This bespoke jeweller creates matching sets for couples, offering options that include patterned and plain bands, as well as their signature twist designs. Their rings are designed to be both comfortable and glamorous, featuring comfort-fit profiles and traditional ‘D-shape’ bands. Their rings come in different widths, ranging from 4mm to 6mm, to suit various hand sizes.
• BestToHave – Their His and Hers Wedding Rings collection includes a gorgeous and very affordable selection of bands, inlay rings, and premium-quality sets filled with romantic, cultural, and historic designs. Using materials such as tungsten and titanium, their rings are also durable enough for everyday wear.
• F. Hinds – Offering everything from simple, classic bands to glittering white gold set with cubic zirconia and some more intricate designs, F. Hinds has a reputation for producing high-quality, matching wedding bands for couples that are exquisitely finished, beautifully made, and durable enough to last a lifetime.
• H. Samuel – This high-street stalwart has been around for years, and consistently delivers excellent quality and affordable prices, including finance offers on some selected items. Their matching wedding bands for couples include modern designs incorporating different materials, luxe brushed and polished finishes, and a wide range of sizes. Their selection includes both affordable and higher-priced options to suit any budget.
• Elma Jewellery – Design-led and inspiring jewellery that includes a vast selection of wedding rings for couples in precious metals and more unusual options, including palladium and tungsten. This jeweller loves to experiment with bolder, more trendy designs, making them a popular choice for young couples seeking something a little more individual and distinctive.

Tips for choosing the perfect his and hers matching wedding rings

Set an achievable budget – Getting married is not a cheap endeavour, and the rings are another significant part of the costs. It’s essential to establish a realistic budget for your rings. If you can’t afford to pay out straight away, look for jewellers that offer financing on some rings so you can spread the cost.

Consider lifestyle and comfort factors – If you’re an outdoorsy couple who loves your garden or works in harsh environments, such as engineering shops, your wedding rings need to be both comfortable and durable, as well as beautiful. Consider stronger materials such as stainless steel or tungsten carbide rings that won’t tarnish.

Get your ring sizes professionally taken – If you try ‘guessing’ your ring size, chances are you’ll get it wrong. Go to a jeweller’s studio and have them measure your ring finger so you get an accurate size for both of you to avoid having to resize rings or, worst of all, trying to put rings on at the wedding that don’t fit.

Try on rings in person to get a feel for the fit and comfort – Don’t worry, it’s not bad luck to try on your wedding ring before the big day – in fact, it’s the most sensible thing you can do. In fact, trying on rings in-store lets you feel confident you’ve made the right choice before committing. If you do buy online, check that the seller offers returns if the rings don’t fit or you’re not happy with them.

Don’t settle on the first style you try – Your wedding ring is something you’ll wear for the rest of your life, so don’t rush into the decision. There are literally thousands of different styles out there, so don’t just pick the first one you try and say, “This’ll do…”!

Talk to each other – Choosing matching wedding rings is a joint venture, not something one partner can do without at least some input from the other. So, sit down and discuss what you like. Jot down some ideas or create a mood board to try and incorporate unique elements into your choice.

Customised rings – If you can’t find exactly what you’re looking for, think about having custom rings made by an artist or jeweller. And no, it doesn’t have to cost thousands of pounds, either. For example, there are plenty of artists creating beautiful and very affordable inlay rings that can be customised to your exact needs. For example, adding a guitar string into the design for a musical couple, or some sand from your favourite beach if you met surfing.

Insure your wedding ring with TH March

Wedding ring insurance may not be at the top of your list of things to do, what with the wedding on the horizon and so many other things to consider. But if you’re investing time (for customised rings) and money on matching wedding rings, it makes sense to protect them financially. For over 120 years, TH March has been offering the best in bespoke jewellery insurance, including ring insurance tailored for individual items, such as wedding rings. If you want to make sure your financial commitment is as secure as your marriage commitment, get your rings insured with TH March today. Visit our Ring Insurance page for more information, or call us to speak with one of our friendly team members for additional advice.