Choosing Your Metal
When designing an engagement ring or piece ofdiamond jewellery, the band of the ring plays a crucial role in both theappearance and durability of the piece. From the metal you choose to thewidth, karat and design, each decision helps shape the final look ofyour ring.Below is a simple guide to help you choose theperfect ring band.
Choosing Your Metal
The first step when selecting a ring band is choosing the metal. Each metal offers a different colour, durability and
style.
Platinum
Platinum is one of the most durable precious metals used in jewellery. It has a naturally white colour and is highly resistant to wear, making it a premium choice for engagement rings.
White Gold
White gold offers a similar appearance to platinum but is lighter and often more accessible in price. It is one of the most popular metals used for diamond engagement rings.
Yellow Gold
A timeless and traditional choice, yellow gold has been used in jewellery for centuries. It complements diamonds beautifully and offers a classic look.
Rose Gold
Rose gold has a warm pink tone created by adding copper to the gold alloy. It has become increasingly popular for modern engagement rings.
9ct Gold
9ct gold contains 37.5% pure gold and is a durable option often chosen for everyday jewellery. It offers the appearance of gold while being more resistant to scratches and wear.
Sterling Silver
Silver is a bright, reflective metal that offers an elegant appearance. While it is softer than gold or platinum, it remains a popular choice for certain jewellery designs such as bracelets, pendants and earrings.
Choose Your Band Width
The width of the ring band can significantly change the look of the ring.
- Thin bands (1.5mm – 2mm) create a delicate and elegant style.
- Medium bands (2mm – 3mm) offer a balanced and classic look.
- Wide bands (3mm and above) create a bold statement and provide extra durability.
The band width should complement both the diamond size and the wearer’s finger shape.
Choose Your Gold Karat
If you select a gold band, you will also need to choose the gold karat, which indicates how much pure gold is present in the alloy.
18K Gold
Contains 75% pure gold and offers a rich colour with excellent durability. It is commonly used in fine jewellery.
14K Gold
Contains slightly less gold and is often chosen for its balance of durability and value.
9K Gold
Contains 37.5% pure gold and is highly durable, making it suitable for everyday wear.
Platinum and silver do not use the same karat grading system.