How to choose a men's wedding band: width, profile and metal

A men's wedding band is usually the only piece of jewelry a man wears every day for the rest of his life, and it gets far more knocks than an engagement ring. Three decisions cover almost all of it: width, profile and metal. A fourth, whether to add diamonds, is a matter of taste.

Width: start at 5 or 6mm

Band widths are measured in millimeters across the top of the finger. Most men land between 4 and 6mm. Under 4mm reads slim and understated, and suits slender fingers or a man who does not usually wear jewelry. 7 to 8mm is a bold band that suits larger hands.

A useful rule: the wider the band, the snugger it feels, because more of the finger is covered. If you choose 7mm or wider, many people go up half a size from their usual measurement. Our men's bands are made in widths from 1.5 to 8mm, so you can match the width to the hand rather than to a standard size.

Profile: the shape across the top

Classic dome. Rounded across the top. The most traditional shape and the most comfortable for people new to wearing a ring.

Flat. A flat top with crisp edges. Modern and architectural.

Soft edge. A flat top with rounded edges, so it looks clean but does not dig in between the fingers.

Beveled. A flat center with angled edges that catch the light. It gives a plain band some detail without any stones.

Step edge. A raised center with a stepped shoulder on each side, for a more structured look.

If you are unsure, a dome or soft edge in 5 to 6mm is the safest choice and works with any engagement ring.

Metal: how it looks and how it wears

Platinum. Naturally white and the densest of the precious metals, so it feels noticeably heavier. Over time it develops a soft satin patina rather than wearing away. Ideal for a ring that will never come off.

14K gold. Richer in color than 10K, in white, yellow or rose. A good balance of color and durability.

10K gold. A higher share of alloy makes it harder and more affordable, which suits hands that work.

Sterling silver. The most affordable way into a fine band. It is softer than gold and platinum and shows scratches sooner, so it suits someone who wants the look at a lower price.

Every men's band we make comes in eight metals: platinum, silver, and 10K or 14K white, yellow or rose gold. How the metals compare in more detail is in 14K vs 18K vs platinum.

Plain or diamond?

A plain band is timeless and will never look dated. A diamond band adds presence without looking like a woman's ring if the stones are set low. Our diamond designs include a single round, baguette or radiant solitaire set across the band, star set stones sunk flush into the metal, a pave edge, emerald cut and princess cut bands, and a bezel set signet ring. Flush and bezel settings are the most practical, because nothing stands proud of the metal to catch. Every diamond is lab grown in our own reactors.

Does it have to match hers?

No. Many couples match metal color so the rings look like a pair, but different widths, profiles or even metals are common. Matching the metal is a good place to start; matching the style is optional. For her side of the set, see how to match a wedding band to an engagement ring.

Sizing and engraving

Have the finger measured at the end of the day, when it is slightly larger, and not when it is cold. Every Rareva band is made to order in your size, and engraving is free. If the fit is not right, resizing is free within 30 days of delivery.

Shop the pieces in this guide

10K Yellow Gold Men's Round Cut Diamond Pave Edge Eternity Band - 6mm
From $1,390 Silver Men's Radiant Cut Diamond East West Solitaire Ring - 4mm
From $805 10K White Gold Men's Classic Dome Wedding Band - 5mm
From $1,050 14K Yellow Gold Men's Baguette Cut Diamond Solitaire Band - 5mm
From $1,900

Browse all men's bands, or shop by metal: yellow gold, rose gold, or white gold, platinum and silver. Want to try widths in person? Visit the showroom at 15 W 47th St, or book a virtual appointment.