The groom
traditionally selects the engagement ring and surprises the
bride with the proposal and ring. Although this sounds
exciting and romantic, the groom's taste in rings may be
quite different from yours. If your marriage proposal comes
before your engagement ring -- and if you are particular
about your jewellery -- suggest that you select your rings
together.
The traditional engagement ring is
a single band with a solitary diamond. The wedding band is a
single band made of the same material as the engagement
ring.
Matching ring sets are very
popular. You both wear the same style wedding band, yours a
smaller version of the groom's. If you want matching wedding
bands but don't want to give up the diamonds, wear an
engagement ring that complements your wedding band.
Choose a style that looks good with
your hands and fingers. Narrow bands with a single stone
look great on petite hands. The bold designs with wide bands
look best on larger hands. If you plan to wear your ring
every day, select a stone and setting that will withstand
the daily abuse of household work and sporting activities.
Caution: Avoid pearls placed in high settings.
Some experts suggest that the
wedding ring budget not exceed your combined salaries for
two months. Others say the cost of the rings should be
equivalent to three weeks' salary. These are just
guidelines, not rules. Make your decision based on your
financial picture. If you choose to buy an inexpensive ring
now, consider adding stones on each anniversary or design a
new ring for your tenth anniversary when you will be able to
afford something more expensive.
You may receive a stone or a
wedding set from your favourite grandparent, something that
has been passed along for generations. If you desire to have
something more contemporary, have it remounted in a setting
of your choice. Adding different-size stones to the heirloom
will allow you to design your own rings combining the new
and the old.
Rings from prior marriages carry
much history with them, usually not very fond memories, and
generally are not used in the new wedding ring set. If you
have children from your first marriage, save it for them and
give the ring to the first to marry. If you are friendly
with your ex-spouse, have it remounted into a cocktail ring
or brooch. When there is anger toward your ex-spouse, sell
the ring so that there are no old ties and use the money for
something you want.
