Finding the perfect wedding band is a significant milestone, a symbol of commitment and enduring love. For men seeking something unique and striking, a ruby wedding band offers a captivating alternative to traditional metals. This guide explores the world of ruby men's wedding bands, covering everything from choosing the right ruby to understanding the various band styles and metals available.
What Makes Ruby Wedding Bands Unique?
Ruby, a vibrant red gemstone, symbolizes passion, love, and vitality. Its rich color makes a ruby wedding band a bold statement, reflecting the strength and intensity of a committed relationship. Unlike diamonds, rubies come in a range of shades, from deep crimson to pinkish-red, allowing for a highly personalized choice. The gemstone's hardness (9 on the Mohs scale) ensures it can withstand daily wear and tear, making it a durable choice for a lifetime commitment.
What are the Different Types of Ruby Wedding Bands?
There's a wide variety of styles to consider when choosing a ruby wedding band for men:
Classic Ruby Wedding Bands:
These typically feature a single row of rubies, sometimes interspersed with metal, offering a timeless and sophisticated look. The size and cut of the rubies can be varied to suit personal preference.
Modern Ruby Wedding Bands:
Modern designs often incorporate more complex settings, using multiple rows of rubies, channel settings, or bezel settings. These designs can create a bolder, more contemporary look.
Ruby and Metal Combination Bands:
Many bands combine rubies with other metals like platinum, white gold, yellow gold, or even stainless steel. This creates an interesting contrast in color and texture, allowing for customization to complement the wearer's style.
Intricate Designs with Rubies:
Some bands feature intricate designs incorporating rubies into the overall pattern, creating a truly unique and eye-catching piece. These often involve skilled craftsmanship and may incorporate other precious metals or stones.
What Metal Should I Choose for My Ruby Wedding Band?
The choice of metal significantly impacts the overall look and feel of the ring.
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Platinum: A durable and hypoallergenic choice, platinum offers a classic, sophisticated look. Its silvery-white color provides a striking contrast to the ruby's red.
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White Gold: A more affordable alternative to platinum, white gold is also durable and hypoallergenic. It often requires rhodium plating to maintain its bright white color.
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Yellow Gold: Yellow gold offers a warmer, more traditional look and provides a beautiful contrast with the ruby's brilliance.
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Rose Gold: A romantic and increasingly popular choice, rose gold complements the ruby's warmth.
How Much Should I Expect to Pay for a Ruby Wedding Band?
The price of a ruby wedding band varies significantly based on several factors:
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The quality of the ruby: Color, clarity, cut, and carat weight all influence the ruby's price. A deeper, more saturated red color typically commands a higher price.
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The type and weight of the metal: Platinum is more expensive than gold, and the weight of the metal used in the band will affect the price.
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The complexity of the design: Intricate designs and settings will generally be more expensive than simpler styles.
What are the Best Places to Buy a Ruby Wedding Band?
Reputable jewelers, both online and brick-and-mortar, offer a wide selection of ruby wedding bands. It's advisable to research and compare options from different sources to find the best quality and value.
How Do I Care for My Ruby Wedding Band?
Proper care will ensure your ruby wedding band remains beautiful for years to come. Avoid exposing the ring to harsh chemicals and clean it regularly with a soft cloth. It is wise to have it professionally inspected and cleaned periodically by a jeweler to maintain its brilliance and structural integrity.
What are the different Ruby cuts used in men's wedding bands?
While round-cut rubies are common, other cuts can offer unique aesthetics. Consider oval, cushion, or princess cuts for varying levels of sparkle and visual appeal. The cut will significantly influence the appearance of the ruby in the band.
What if I have allergies to certain metals?
If you have metal allergies, platinum or hypoallergenic white gold are generally the best choices. Always confirm the metal composition with the jeweler to ensure it’s suitable for your skin.
Are ruby wedding bands suitable for everyday wear?
Absolutely! Rubies are incredibly durable, scoring a 9 on the Mohs Hardness Scale, making them well-suited for daily wear. However, just like any gemstone ring, taking precautions like removing it during strenuous activities helps prolong its lifespan.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of ruby wedding bands for men. Remember that the perfect band is a personal choice, reflecting your unique style and the enduring nature of your commitment. Take your time to explore the available options and find a ring that resonates with you and symbolizes your love story perfectly.
