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Bling Up Your Look: How to Pick the Perfect Bridal Ring Sets

By Gary A.

Edited by Brian M.

Published Aug 17, 2021

Edited on Oct 15, 2024

Bridal ring sets are the perfect blend of elegance and practicality, offering a seamless match of engagement ring and wedding band to create a stunning, unified look. Dive into our complete guide to choosing the ideal bridal set for your big day!

Navigate This Guide:

  • Introduction
  • 7 Bridal Ring Sets: Key Considerations When Buying a Diamond Engagement Ring 
  • Why Bridal Ring Sets Are So Popular
  • Choosing Your Perfect Bridal Ring Set
  • The Distinct Features of Bridal Ring Sets
  • The Art of Proposing with a Bridal Set 
  • Conclusion
  • 10 FAQs

Introduction

It’s pretty common for any would-be groom to get so wrapped up in the process of finding and buying an engagement ring that he doesn’t look ahead to what comes after the proposal. And, while this is perfectly understandable, some grooms prefer to plan ahead and choose or create a bridal ring set for their soon-to-be fiancée.

As the name suggests, bridal ring sets are sets of two (or possibly more) rings specifically created to fit alongside one another perfectly, both in terms of design and shape.

While it may be some time between the proposal and the ‘I Do’, a bridal set ensures that, when the wedding date finally arrives, there won’t be any ‘wrangling’ to get the two rings to sit comfortably side by side. For this reason alone, bridal ring sets have proven very popular – particularly in recent years.

Defining Bridal Ring Sets

In most cases, a bridal set will include an engagement ring alongside a coordinating wedding band. It may also feature an eternity ring, which will be added to the finger at a later date.

It’s important not to get a bridal set confused with a wedding set, which typically features an engagement ring, and two corresponding wedding bands – one for the groom, and one for the bride. Bridal ring sets are just for the bride.

Before we dive deeper into the specifics, here are some practical tips to help guide your decision-making process:

Bridal Ring Sets: 7 Key Considerations When Buying a Diamond Engagement Ring 

When selecting a diamond engagement ring, especially within bridal ring sets, there are several critical factors to consider. These tips will guide you in making an informed decision, ensuring that your choice not only symbolizes your love but also offers value, beauty, and longevity. 

  • Tip 1: Understand the 4 Cs of Diamonds: Cut: The cut determines the diamond’s brilliance. Look for cuts that enhance sparkle and suit the style of the bridal set. Color: Diamond color grades range from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow). Choose a color that complements the metal of the ring set. Clarity: Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions. Select a diamond that appears clean to the naked eye for a balance of beauty and value. Carat Weight: Carat affects the size and price. Decide on a carat weight that fits your budget and matches the proportions of the bridal set. 
  • Tip 2: Match the Engagement Ring with the Wedding Band: Ensure that the engagement ring and wedding band in the set complement each other in style, design, and fit. The two rings should align seamlessly and create a cohesive look when worn together. 
  • Tip 3: Consider the Metal Type and Durability: Choose a metal for the bridal set that offers both durability and aesthetic appeal. Popular options include platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. Consider lifestyle factors and how the metal will wear over time. 
  • Tip 4: Pay Attention to Ring Sizing and Comfort: Bridal sets should fit comfortably and be easy to wear daily. Make sure the rings fit perfectly and don’t pinch or slide on the finger. Consider future resizing needs based on lifestyle changes. 
  • Tip 5: Evaluate the Setting and Stone Security: Examine how the diamond is set in the engagement ring. Prong settings are popular but require regular checks to ensure the stone’s security. Bezel settings offer more protection for the diamond. 
  • Tip 6: Check for Certification and Warranties: Ensure the diamond comes with a certification from a reputable lab, detailing its quality attributes. Also, inquire about warranties and guarantees for the bridal set, which can offer peace of mind and protection for your investment. 
  • Tip 7: Assess the Overall Aesthetics and Personal Style: The bridal set should reflect the wearer’s personal style and taste. Consider the design intricacies, such as side stones, engravings, or unique features that make the set special and aligned with the wearer’s preferences.

Now that you’ve got these practical tips, use Jeweler AI below to find the perfect engagement ring that suits your style and budget:

Why Bridal Ring Sets Are So Popular

The main reason behind the popularity of bridal ring sets is style – one is designed to look good when worn alongside the other, which takes the guesswork out of picking a wedding band at a later date.

Style and Comfort Combined

Another reason why bridal ring sets are a popular choice is the face that they are typically much more comfortable to wear side-by-side. The traditional design of an engagement ring – featuring either a diamond solitaire (on its own) or one set within a ‘halo’ of smaller gemstones – can make it a little difficult to find a wedding band that won’t be overshadowed.

Consider the fact that, in general, it is preferable for the bride to choose a wedding band featuring the same width as the band of the engagement ring. This would be simple enough, but add a diamond into the mix and it’s clear which ring will dominate her finger.

In bridal ring sets, the wedding band is specifically designed to ‘take up its own space’ on the finger and to stand out regardless of the size of the engagement ring. It may feature an elegant curve, intended to ‘hug’ the diamond, or simply feature a corresponding pave deliberately proportioned to sit comfortably beneath the edge of the diamond.

What’s more, it takes another step out of the wedding planning process – something any bride or groom will agree to find incredibly helpful. 

Choosing Your Perfect Bridal Ring Set

In much the same way that you would pick an engagement ring on its own, you need to do your research, and work out the kinds of things you think will appeal to your partner.

It’s important to remember that you’re giving yourself twice as much to think about as someone who is only purchasing an engagement ring – but that, provided you can give it some extra time and thought, choosing a bridal set will certainly pay off.

The engagement ring is the first thing she will see, so we’d advise any groom-to-be to start by focusing on finding the perfect diamond ring, before looking for a wedding band that accommodates the finer details and contours of the engagement ring perfectly. 

The Distinct Features of Bridal Ring Sets

A lot of people think that bridal ring sets have to seem perfectly coordinated in style, color, and shape, but this isn’t the case. It’s all down to personal choice. While coordinating the two rings together is pretty traditional, there are no rules stating that it’s the only way to wear both rings side by side.

One area you will want to keep consistent is the types of metals used to create both rings. From a purely practical standpoint, choosing the same metals – or the same gold karat – will ensure that one doesn’t show signs of wear or age faster than the other. The stronger the ring, the better it will hold up, which means consistency is key here.

That’s not to say that you have to limit yourself to one metal. If you’re opting for a mixed metal band on your engagement ring, you can incorporate that same combination of metals into the rest of the bridal ring set.

Bridal ring sets are popular for plenty of reasons, but none of those reasons has anything to do with so-called ‘rules’ or binding traditions.

cushion cut diamond ring, wedding ring in ring box

 

Economic Benefits vs Customization Costs

Buying a bridal set can work out to be more cost-effective. Keep in mind that, as with engagement rings sold on their own, adding your own customizations can incur a premium cost.

Still, you need to start by gathering ideas. At willyou.com, we are passionate about preparing you for the next big step and can help you to get your head around all the details – big and small – before you settle. 

round engagement ring - The Cathedral Setting

The Art of Proposing with a Bridal Set 

The wedding band can be kept to one side until the wedding day itself when it will be placed on the bride’s finger alongside her engagement ring.

When you decide to tell your bride-to-be about the wedding band is, of course, entirely up to you. What’s important to remember is that there’s no rush – just because the engagement ring was purchased alongside another piece, doesn’t mean it needs to be treated as part of a set when you pop the question to your bride-to-be.

See it this way: one is a promise, and one represents the fulfillment of that promise. One always comes before the other.

Traditional Wearing Styles

There are lots of different ways you can wear your bridal set, such as soldering them together after the wedding.

This is totally down to personal preference, though. 

It is also customary for the wedding band to replace the engagement ring at the base of the finger, closer to the heart, and for the engagement ring to be worn on top.

This is one tradition that really has stood the test of time. On the morning of the wedding, a bride will usually move her engagement ring onto her right hand, in order to ‘clear the way’ for her wedding band.

Following the ceremony, she will then replace her engagement ring on her left hand, too. As we mentioned above, she might then choose to have them soldered together.

Conclusion

Whether or not you choose to opt for a bridal ring set is a pretty personal choice. There’s advantages to both options, and, of course, it all depends on what you think your future bride would prefer.

10 FAQs

  • Q: What Is Included in a Bridal Ring Set? 
  • A: A bridal ring set typically includes two rings: an engagement ring and a matching wedding band designed to complement each other when worn together.
  • Q: Can I Wear My Engagement Ring and Wedding Band Separately? 
  • A: Yes, you can wear them separately, but they are designed to be worn together for a cohesive look.
  • Q: Should the Metals of the Engagement Ring and Wedding Band Match? 
  • A: It’s recommended for aesthetic consistency and to prevent one metal from wearing down the other due to differences in hardness.
  • Q: How Do I Ensure My Bridal Set Fits Comfortably? 
  • A: Have your finger professionally measured at a jewelry store, and consider how the fit might change with temperature and time.
  • Q: Can Bridal Sets Be Customized? 
  • A: Yes, many jewelers offer customization options to tailor a bridal set to your specific preferences and style.
  • Q: How Do I Care for My Bridal Ring Set? 
  • A: Regular cleaning, avoiding harsh chemicals, and periodic professional check-ups are recommended to maintain the set’s beauty and integrity.
  • Q: Are Bridal Sets More Expensive Than Buying Rings Separately? 
  • A: Not necessarily. Bridal sets can often be more cost-effective than purchasing each ring individually.
  • Q: Is It Necessary to Buy a Bridal Set? 
  • A: It’s a personal choice. Some prefer the coordinated look of a set, while others opt for separate pieces for more versatility.
  • Q: How Should I Store My Bridal Set? 
  • A: Store it in a clean, dry place, preferably in a fabric-lined jewelry box to prevent scratches.
  • Q: Can Bridal Sets be Resized? 
  • A: Yes, most bridal sets can be resized. However, the complexity of the design may affect the resizing process.

Explore the world of bridal ring sets with JewelerAI and find your perfect match. Click to begin your enchanting journey in choosing the ultimate symbol of love!

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