How to Buy a Wedding Ring

Our Top Tips and Things to Consider

In this post, we will guide you through the process of shopping for your wedding rings, sharing our tips on how to choose the perfect ring to symbolise your love and commitment on your special day.

1. Choose your precious metal

Choosing the metal for your wedding ring is an important first step. Each precious metal has different qualities that will affect the look and durability of your ring. You may already have a preference, and keeping in mind that this is a piece of jewellery to be worn forever, it’s important to choose something you love!

Gold

Gold, a classic and traditional choice, comes in a range of tones (yellow, red/rose and white being the most common) and will remain bright and shiny over time, without tarnishing. Many people with warm-toned skin also favour gold for the way it compliments their complexion. At Cox & Power, we typically choose to work in 18ct certified Fairtrade/Fairmined gold, but other options including recycled gold are also available. For more information on the gold we use and our approaches to sustainable craftsmanship, read here.

Platinum

Platinum is an increasingly popular choice for its superior durability over gold and silver. It’s also hypoallergenic and an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin. Platinum is often more expensive than gold but is worth investing in if you’re someone who works with their hands or leads an active lifestyle.

Silver

Silver is a cost-effective option for those who would like a cool-white metal without investing in platinum. When considering silver it is worth noting that silver is a softer metal than both gold and platinum, and will likely tarnish over time if not regularly cleaned and polished.

Please bear in mind that, whatever metal you choose, some wear over time is perfectly normal! We recommend all of our customers to bring your ring back to us periodically for a complimentary clean, or book it in for a full refinishing service every couple of years or so.

Here are some examples of the metals we work with, in a variety of finishes. Choose polished for a nod to tradition, matte for a modern sensibility or the matte hammered for something rugged and unique.

2. Choose your design

We offer a wide range of wedding band styles, from original designs to more conventional plain bands. If you’re looking for something contemporary and unique, shop for a Cox & Power original such as the Starlit Rocks or London Forged rings. If you are looking for something more traditional or discrete, come and visit our Marylebone studio to discuss all the available options – in the images below, you can see some more examples of the classic styles we offer:

3. Find out your ring size

There are a few important things to bear in mind when it comes to ring sizing. It is natural for your finger size to fluctuate somewhat throughout the year – you might find that your ring is tighter in the summer and looser in the winter if you’re someone who is prone to heat-swelling, for example. If your ring is too loose it may slip off your finger, and if it is too tight it may be uncomfortable.

Pop in-store to have your finger measured by us. If you’re not based in London please get in touch to discuss sizing.

We will always measure your finger during your initial consultation, and we recommend that you come in for a ring fitting during the making process to ensure your ring is the best fit. We work with precise measurements and can always offer in-between sizes as well.

If you are someone with an inflammatory condition such as arthritis, know that there are plenty of options available to you to make your ring as comfortable as possible to wear. This is a common issue that we will always accommodate where possible – let us know any concerns you may have during your consultation, and we will discuss all the available options with you.

Half & Half Elliptical Wedding Ring – A contemporary variation on a classic easy-fit wedding ring, made from platinum and 18ct yellow gold. Handmade by our in-house goldsmith, here in our Marylebone workshop.

4. Add a personal touch

Personalising your wedding rings can add to their meaning and make them even more special to you. We work closely with highly skilled engravers who offer a variety of engraving styles, including imitating handwriting.

Consider adding a meaningful inscription, perhaps a special message to your partner, or the date of your wedding.

Our ‘Hidden’ ring is a Cox & Power original, a modern adaptation of the medieval ‘gimmel’ ring. Designed to carry a meaningful inscription within the two interlocking sections, hidden when worn on the finger so that you may keep your engraving close to your heart.

Hidden Ring - A modern interpretation of the medieval gimmel ring. When the two pieces are fitted together your engraved message lies hidden in the heart of the ring.

Any questions? We're here for you

Whether you are planning your own wedding or considering an upgrade to your current ring, remember that each ring represents a unique love story waiting to be told.

Take the next step in your wedding journey by making a conscious and meaningful choice when it comes to your ring.

Get in touch to have a chat with our dedicated team, and allow us to craft a unique wedding ring that is a reflection of your love.