Wedding rings, a representation of a couple's immortal love, have been part of marriage rites for thousands of years. ivory, glass, leather and bone have been used to fashion wedding bands, but precious metals are the most common material. Shopping for a ring can be one of the more enjoyable chores a couple must complete before the wedding day, though the decision won't be easy with so many styles from which to choose.



Most wedding planners recommend that ring shopping should be undertaken after some of the more logistical parts of planning the event have been completed. This allows the hunt to be less a stressful chore and more of an enjoyable pastime. Selecting the rings is an excellent time to relax and regroup before the tension builds as the big event approaches.

The wedding rings are an important purchase because they're something that you'll want to last a lifetime. But even so, it's important now more than ever to stick within the amount you have previously budgeted for this purpose. Once you start looking at wedding rings, you're going to want them all, no matter what they cost. Keep in mind while you shop that you do want your rings to look good, but because they'll become part of everyday life, be practical and make sure that your wedding rings fit comfortably.

Where do you begin your search for wedding rings? Trends are great, and the trendy rings will be placed center stage at the jewelers, but most people opt for tradition when selecting their wedding rings. Remember, the rings are going to be worn for a long time, hopefully decades, and today's trends aren't going to last that long. Be sure to consider what you both like. For many men, a wedding ring is the only piece of jewelry they'll ever wear so let the guy have some say in the decision.

Do you prefer yellow or white gold or perhaps platinum? Do you want to include diamonds or other gemstones? Do you like filigree or scroll work? Perhaps you are more attracted to simplicity. Should the rings match or should each pick a preferred style? Non-matching rings are becoming a more common option.

A plain gold band, narrower for the bride and wider for the groom is a classic look. Do either of you have any cultural preferences? For example, traditional French rings are made up of of three interwoven rings which stand for "faith", "hope" and "love". In Greek and Anatolian cultures women wear "puzzle rings" which consist of intricate interlocking bands that are assembled to create a single ring. A traditional Russian rings are made of bands of three metals: bands of rose, white and yellow gold. Jewish wedding rings are usually inscribed with a Hebrew scripture.The popular Irish Claddagh rings symbolize the phrase "let love and friendship reign." They are adorned with two hands clasping a heart surmounted by a crown.

Engraved inscriptions are often added to wedding rings. They can be as simple as the date of the wedding but anything can be added if it can be be fit in the provided space. Once a final choice is made, it is important to go over the receipt and paperwork before making a partial or full payment. Wedding bands are an important purchase so insurance might be a consideration. The jeweler will also be happy to provide instructions for their proper care. The end result should be something that a couple can consider a reflection to their commitment to each other.