The purchase of wedding bands and engagement rings is based purely on two things: personal style, and budget.

Once your budget has been determined and it’s time to go shopping for these special gifts.  We at Schwanke-Kasten have listed some pointers for you to help make your purchase as easy and as tailored to your tastes as possible.

1)    If you’re buying an engagement ring, have a look at the style of jewelry your partner tends to like most. Do they like unique art pieces? Are they a fan of gold or white gold? Start by thinking of your partner and what would really ‘wow’ them.

2)    Once you’ve had a look at the different styles, one or two of them may make a big impression on you. Window shopping before the actual purchase will show you the various selections. The Internet is an invaluable way to peruse the wedding bands all over the world, and artists who create unique pieces. When you have a general idea of what you like, it’s time to do some actual ring shopping. Don’t leave this until the last minute, as it takes time to try on rings, and upon selection, to have engraving and other customization done. Upon engagement, you should begin looking for rings as soon as possible to ensure that they satisfy your wishes, and are ready.

Wedding Bands

3)    Once the engagement ring has been selected, the proposal has been made, and you got that answer you were hoping for, it’s now time to search for wedding bands. Go window-shopping together and take input from both yourself, and your partner. Stop by one of our Schwanke-Kasten locations so we can help you navigate the conversation! Since the engagement is established, you can share the fun of choosing your rings together. Your partner will most likely look for a wedding band that complements their engagement ring. If the engagement ring holds a uniquely cut diamond, the wedding band should be a simple one to not overload the engagement ring. Look for a band that will interlock or physically fit alongside the engagement ring. For a more standard cut stone, some creativity will compliment it nicely. A band with a diamond pave, for example.

4)    Wedding bands do not have to match, so consider the style of yourself and your partner. It’s not a problem if you like platinum and your partner prefers gold, and it does not deviate from any sort of tradition. Custom wedding bands that blend both of your styles are a choice that many choose so they can express their own styles while mingling with the style of their partner’s ring. These rings are forever, and so should reflect the two of you. If you look for a custom ring like a braided multi-metal band, it will take 1-3 months to construct. In any event, even with completely different styles, some elements should be shared to truly make them a ‘set’. Even just the same engraving on both rings should be sufficient.

Size is important

5)    Choose rings that are comfortable. Sizing is important. You are going to wear these rings for the rest of your life, and they should be chosen to reflect your lifestyles. If you are active in sports or work with your hands, a minimally intrusive band should be considered. There are ring bands that are designed for comfort that are just as beautiful as any other band.

Ring selection should be an enjoyable process,

Have fun! Get the rings that are perfect for you, just as perfect as your partner. And congratulations!