The Complete Wedding Ring Buying Guide
Everything you need to choose the right wedding band — metal, carat, width, profile, fit and sizing — from a UK made-to-order jeweller.
Quick answer
Choosing a wedding ring comes down to five decisions: metal & carat (9ct, 14ct or 18ct gold), width (2–7mm), profile & fit (how it sits and feels), plain or diamond-set, and getting the size right. Because every Majestic piece is made to order, you can mix these freely — the same design in the carat, width and finish that suits you. Qualifying pieces are UK hallmarked under the Hallmarking Act 1973.
1. Choose your metal and carat
Wedding rings are worn every day, so the metal matters. In solid gold your main choice is the carat: 9ct (most affordable, hardest-wearing), 14ct (the balanced all-rounder, our core metal) or 18ct (richest colour, highest precious-metal content). You'll also choose a tone — yellow, white or rose. For a full breakdown, read our 9ct vs 14ct vs 18ct gold guide.
2. Pick the right width
Width changes the whole feel of a band. Slimmer widths look delicate and stack well; wider bands make more of a statement and feel more substantial. Our wedding bands are made in 2–7mm.
| Width | Look & feel | Often chosen for |
|---|---|---|
| 2–3mm | Slim, delicate, elegant | Stacking, slender fingers, subtle everyday wear |
| 4mm | Classic, versatile | The most popular all-round width |
| 5–6mm | Bold, substantial presence | A stronger look; broader fingers |
| 7mm | Statement, weighty | Maximum presence; often chosen for men's bands |
3. Profile and comfort fit
The "profile" is the cross-section shape — how the band sits on your finger. A gently rounded, court-style profile with a smooth interior (often called comfort fit) is the most comfortable for daily wear. Flatter profiles look more contemporary; softer, domed profiles feel more traditional. Every band we make is finished with smooth edges for all-day comfort.
4. Plain or diamond-set?
A plain band is timeless, low-maintenance and pairs with any engagement ring. A diamond-set band — from a subtle line of stones to a full eternity of diamonds — adds sparkle and can complement or echo an engagement ring. If you're matching to an existing ring, bring it (or a clear photo) so we can align the metal tone and profile.
5. Matching couple sets
Many couples choose coordinated bands — the same finish or profile in two widths, or a plain band paired with a diamond-set one. Because everything is made to order, we can match tone, texture and profile across both rings. Explore matching couple sets or the Classic Collection for timeless pairings.
6. Getting the size right
A wedding ring should feel snug enough not to slip off, but slide over the knuckle comfortably. Fingers change size slightly with temperature and time of day, so measure when your hands are warm and settled. Wider bands feel tighter, so consider going a touch larger for 6–7mm widths. Use our ring size guidance, or ask us — we're happy to help you measure at home. As pieces are made to order, we make to your exact size from the start.
7. Made to order, UK hallmarked
Each band is handmade to your chosen carat, width, profile and size, and typically ready in around 14 working days. Qualifying pieces are UK hallmarked under the Hallmarking Act 1973 — the hallmark's fineness mark (375, 585 or 750) confirms the carat. Learn more in our UK hallmarking law guide, and read What Is Better Gold? for why we work in solid gold.
Caring for your wedding ring
Solid gold is durable but not indestructible. Take rings off for heavy manual work, the gym and swimming (chlorine and impacts are the main culprits). Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft brush, and have diamond-set bands checked periodically so settings stay secure. With simple care, a solid gold band lasts a lifetime of wear.
Frequently asked questions
What width wedding ring should I choose?
4mm is the most popular all-round width. Go slimmer (2–3mm) for a delicate, stackable look, or wider (5–7mm) for more presence. Wider bands feel tighter, so consider a slightly larger size.
Which gold carat is best for a wedding ring?
14ct is the balanced choice for daily wear; 9ct is more affordable and harder-wearing; 18ct has the richest colour. See our gold guide for a full comparison.
Should my wedding ring match my engagement ring?
It's your choice. Many people match the metal tone and profile so the rings sit well together; others deliberately contrast. Because we make to order, we can align tone and profile to an existing ring.
How long does a made-to-order wedding ring take?
Typically around 14 working days, as each piece is handmade to your exact specification. Let us know your date and we'll confirm timing.
Are your wedding rings hallmarked?
Qualifying pieces are UK hallmarked under the Hallmarking Act 1973, and the fineness mark (375, 585 or 750) confirms the carat.
Can we get matching his-and-hers bands?
Yes — we make coordinated couple sets, matching tone, texture and profile across two widths. Explore our matching couple sets.