Fast forward to 2013: While the jewelry industry has become more accepting, there is still progress to be made. Number one and most important, why do we need to call them “commitment” rings? Since everyone deserves the same rights to marry, from this day forward let’s drop the term commitment rings and stick to “wedding rings.”
Some of the hottest trends in wedding rings are rose gold, white and black diamonds mixed together for both men and women, as well as a return to precious metal rings. There is no doubt that the alternative metals — titanium, tungsten carbide and cobalt chrome — all are still very strong for wedding rings as these metals offer a huge range of styles at great prices.
But more and more we have noticed that many couples are back to choosing precious metal rings, be it white or yellow gold, platinum or palladium. I feel people have realized these metals are timeless and we can all relate to them as our parents and grandparents wore these special metals.
Colored diamonds and colored stones have also become a great way to show your individuality. The most popular stone choice has become black diamonds. These unique diamonds offer a great look without out being too flashy.
Both male and female couples often choose to purchase only one ring that they put on at the ceremony, while others choose to start with engagement rings so they can start showing their devotion to each other right away.
Many female couples choose to go with a ring emphasizing a center stone with side accent diamonds, and then add on another band at the actual ceremony. We also see many male couples starting with engagement bands and then adding on an accent band, on one or both sides, at their ceremony.
Other couples who choose to start with engagement bands simply add a single diamond or colored stone to their original rings before their ceremony.
In all of these choices, many couples come in planning to get identical rings. Upon seeing the range of styles, many realize that each partner can pick a different ring to show their individual taste, but still complement their mate’s. They may end up with different styles or simply the same style in a different width; one may have stones and one may not.
Remember these wedding bands symbolize your love for each other. Realize your taste today will continue to evolve just as your love does, so be willing to go a little outside of your style comfort zone when choosing your rings and you will enjoy them for many years to come.
Top photo: Trends in wedding bands for same-sex couples include black diamonds, colored stones and a return to precious metals.
Harris Botnick is president of Worthmore Jewelers, with locations in Midtown and Decatur. Visit www.worthmorejewelers.com