The Engagement Ring Band

The type of band you select for your engagement ring is as important as the selection of the diamond and the setting. The most important point in band selection is that you have got to visualize the type of engagement ring you want. Your engagement ring might not stay flush beside some other rings. Then you have to look for a fitted engagement ring that wraps around the other ring. Do you know that some ladies love them and are crazy that the two rings do not always sit together properly.

People who like to feel comfortable with their rings often choose a half round band. They also look more classy. Flat bands suit a particular style. Their sharp corners could be rounded a little bit for comfort. ‘Comfort fit’ is another popular band type. The band is slightly half rounded on the inside. This is preferred more for mens' engagement rings and wider bands.

The width of the Band is a personal choice. It depends on hand size, skin color and personal style. Generally white designs are finer than yellow gold rings.

The finger size is an essential requirement for a band.

Few tips are being given regarding finger size:

  Go with your partner to the jeweler and have the finger size measured.

  If you have planned to give her a surprise, then think of some good excuse and borrow a ring from her.

  If you think she might feel suspicious, offer to take it to be cleaned.

  Ask her friend to do a favor by finding out her ring size and then passing it on to you.

  Put one of her rings on your finger. Mark the spot where it stops on the finger. Show the marking to a jeweler, who can measure it.

  Borrow one of your partner’s rings, slide it down a tapered candle and mark the size.

  If she is in the habit of leaving any of her rings lying about, make an impression of it on a bar of soap, a piece of clay or even a piece of bread.      

  It is said that the fingers of the left hand are generally ½ a size smaller than those of the right hand.

Another important decision regarding the band is the selection of metal.  The most common choices for engagement rings are platinum and gold.  This has already been discussed in-depth in the chapter on metal selection.

Ring Size & Finger Measurement Chart

Points to remember:

  If your partner has long and bony fingers, a larger and thicker band will look really good.

  If your partner has small fingers that are thin and delicate, then thin and delicate band type will  complement her hands quite nicely.

  If you are ordering a wider band, it is essential that your finger be sized using a wide sizer. In a narrower band, your finger should be sized using a narrow sizer.

  Remember that finger size changes. In warm weather it is larger and cold weather smaller.

  Gaining or losing weight can also affect your finger size.

  For the most accurate reading, measure the finger at the end of the day when the finger is the largest.

  After sliding the ring sizer on, make sure it slides off easily over the knuckle.