Are you a first time ring buyer?

If you're looking to buy your first ring you probably have questions-

• What size am I?
• What width ring should I buy?
• What kind of ring best suits my lifestyle?
• Is *insert metal type here* dangerous to wear, can it be cut off in an emergency?
• What are the advantages of custom rings?

What size am I?

This is important to know because most of my rings cannot be resized easily. Knowing your size will save you time and money.

Your ring size can easily be determined by visiting a local jeweler, sizing is fast and free. There are a few considerations, first, your fingers fluctuate in size throughout the day and with other factors like temperature, humidity, and even things like how much water have you had to drink. It is a good idea to get sized by at least 2 different jewelers on different days if possible and make sure they agree on sizing.

One other factor that can effect the size you need is the width of the ring you buy, as width increases the same size will appear to be somewhat smaller. This is not normally a big issue but can become apparent with very wide sizes (10mm+) or with certain fingers.

What width ring should I buy?

Width is really a matter of preference. Most "normal" wedding bands carried in big box jewelry retailers are around 6.5-7mm wide, but many people like the look or a wider ring. Rings around 10mm+ start becoming noticeably wider and some may consider them somewhat uncomfortable, while some prefer the width.

Keep in mind as stated in the above section, increasing widths will appear to fit more snugly than a narrower ring in the same size.

What kind of ring best suits my lifestyle?

First, a safety disclaimer. I highly recommend removing any jewelry(including wedding rings) before engaging in any physical activities or manual labor, this not only protects your ring from abuse but in the case of an accident, prevents a ring from getting pinched on your finger and requiring emergency removal (see below for common myths) or any other severe injury.

That said, some people are just plain hard on their rings. Solid titanium, black zirconium, carbon fiber and Damascus steel hold up well to wear and abuse. If you want a ring you're going to put on and never take off regardless of activity, you'll probably want to stick to rings that are 100% metal. If you are looking for a ring with natural materials like wood or stone, keep in mind that these materials need to be treated accordingly. Wood, antler and similar materials are naturally softer and unable to withstand the abuse that metals take. Natural material can last a long time, but much like a car, they will only last as long as the owner takes care of them.

My rings all carry a lifetime warranty, but damage from abuse is not covered.

Is *insert metal type here* dangerous to wear, can it be cut off in an emergency?

Some jewelers mistakenly tell customers that titanium (or tungsten carbide or whatever else) cannot be removed in case of an emergency. This statement is false. There is a Snopes article on titanium ring removal that covers the subject very nicely. Other ring materials can be removed as well.

What are the advantages of custom rings?

You're going to be wearing a wedding ring for the rest of your life. Make sure it's something you love. Ask, do I want a ring mass produced in china like the cookie cutter rings at large jewelry chains, or do I need something handcrafted by a skilled craftsman. Do you want something totally unique and awesome, just like the relationship it represents? There is a place for penny-pinching, but a wedding band is a lifetime investment.

More questions?

Ask in the comments below and I'll get back to you as soon as I can!