Most people put a great deal of thought into the type of engagement ring they would like to wear or buy for their special someone. Whether it's a classic solitaire that subtly catches the eye or a diamond-encrusted engagement ring with a dazzling sapphireas its centerpiece, the choice of ring for this occasion varies according to preference.

While most of the focus tends to be on the style and design of engagement rings, the choice of wedding ringsshould not be overlooked. These two rings, symbolizing your enduring love and commitment to one another, will sit side by side on your finger for many years to come. It stands to reason, therefore, that they should match just as well as you and your future spouse.

In this article, we have outlined some of the factors to consider when selecting a wedding ring that complements your engagement ring.

Choice of Metal

Ideally, your wedding ring and engagement ring should be made of the same metal. Not only does this make more of a visual impact but it also ensures both rings will last an equally long time.

Gold is a classic choiceas well as the most common one for engagement and wedding rings. This needn’t be the traditional yellow gold either as white gold and rose gold are also popular choices. You can also mix and match, for example, by choosing white gold for your engagement ring and yellow gold for your wedding ring. The contrast in colors can make a statement while ensuring the longevity of each ring.

Platinum is another precious metal that makes a great choice for each ring. Strong and durable, platinum will also retain its color well and will not corrode or tarnish. Although it is similar in appearance to white gold, platinumdoes not need rhodium plating to ensure its overall appearance.

Other popular metal choices include palladium, sterling silver, and tungsten.

The Perfect Fit

Another thing to consider is how well your rings will fit together to avoid issues such as unsightly gaps, spinning, or uneven alignment between each ring.

To ensure your wedding ring and engagement rings fit flush against each other it has become common for some brides to solder both rings together. This will eliminate any gaps or spinning between them and will also avoid the risk of the two rings rubbing against or wearing down each other. The downside, however, is that you are limited to wearing both rings or none at all.

Another option is to select a raised setting for your engagement ring where your gemstone will be elevated above your finger. Not only does this make the appearance of the central stone larger and more captivating to the eye but it also ensures there is enough space below it for the wedding ring to fit neatly into.

A contoured wedding ring can also be shaped in such a way that it allows the outline of your engagement ring to fit snugly within it leaving no gap, but instead, allowing a seamless merging of the two rings.

Choice of Stone

When it comes to your engagement ring and the cut of its centerpiece stonethere are certain wedding rings that will work better than others to produce a more polished and complementary finish.

Here are some helpful pointers that can steer you in the right direction:

Emerald-Cut Stone: This elegantly understated stone is not as dazzling or reflective as some other cuts of stone and will, therefore, work well with a wedding ring that emphasizes its features such as a round cut diamond wedding ring.

• Princess cut stone: This shape will work well with a pave wedding band featuring an encrusting of small diamonds that are paved into it to produce a sparkling effect.
• Cushion cut stone: This cut offers some of the most fire and sparkle compared to other types of cut. This can be elegantly paired with a simple French-set wedding band or a classic eternity band.
• Asscher cut stone: This art deco-inspired cut can stand out with a milgrain or filigree accented wedding band which adds an artistic flair and helps to frame this vintage stone.
• Marquise cut stone: To ensure the wedding ring sits flush against the stone a raised setting is best allowing it to move gracefully beside it. A contoured wedding ring can also make the perfect companion to this style of engagement ring.
• Round-cut stone: A round-shaped central stone is one of the most versatile shapes in terms of wedding ring pairing, allowing for a variety of different styles.

Put these tips into practice to help you choose the perfect pairing for your engagement ring and wedding ring.