Types of Band Rings for Women

Lester Fangonilo - November 24, 2021

 

 

 

Can there be anything simpler yet more romantic than a wedding band adorning the ring finger of your left hand? Wedding bands have been worn for centuries as a symbol of undying love and devotion. Even if you aren’t married or have no plans to marry, band rings are also a nice accessory to have and they can add a dressy touch to even the simplest of everyday outfits. 

However, how exactly does one choose a good band ring for women? Ladies’ hands come in all sizes, complexions, and bone structures, so even something as simple as a band ring can’t be a one-size-fits-all affair. Likewise, everyone has their own sense of style, their own specific aesthetic which can influence what sort of rings they would wear on their fingers.

In this post, we show you the different types of band rings for women, what they mean, and what effect they have in terms of appearance.

Classic Bands: Plain But Strikingly Beautiful

Simple metal bands have been the standard design for wedding rings since time immemorial, symbolizing the longevity of love and devotion that calls to mind the words of the standard vows uttered at the altar. 

 

Stacker ring in 18k gold by Oliver Cabell

 

Gold is the most commonly used metal for wedding rings, as gold does not tarnish as easily as silver, and its symbolism is unmistakable: one's partner and the beginning of life together as a family is a true treasure. 

Most classic bands are left plain with a well-polished finish. But keep in mind that some jewelers and goldsmiths also offer plain bands in several finishes: brushed, hammered, matte, satin, and texture. While these aren't as shiny as plain polished metal, they add a textural interest to the finished ring.

Infinity Bands: A Renaissance Favorite

Infinity bands - rings made with the infinity symbol looping into a seamless, sinuous circle - have been available since the 17th century, the horizontal figure eight representing the endless cycle of love and life. 

While most iterations of this ring feature just one infinity symbol, usually at the head of the ring, contemporary designs feature the endless loop. This is usually the band ring of choice for those who like beautiful symbols that lean towards the mystical.

 

Eternity Bands: The Lasting Luster of Diamonds

The eternity band is more than just an elaborate spin on the classic. Blues legend Eartha Kitt meant it when she sang "diamonds are forever," as these pristine gemstones are the ultimate symbol of permanence, durability, and perfection. The diamonds in this case are almost always made in a low-profile setting, practically embedded into the metal.

In a full eternity band, the entire circumference of the ring is studded with diamonds; consequently, the half-eternity only has gems in the upper half of the ring. For those who want to add a pop of color to their bands, gemstone eternity rings - available as both full and half-eternity - feature a pattern where diamonds are interspersed at regular intervals with more colorful stones like rubies, sapphires, and even amethysts.

These are quite stunning to look at and bring a touch of glamour and elegance to a bride's hand.

Channel-set Bands: A Practical Choice

If you're the sort of person who works frequently with their hands, then a channel-set band should be your choice. Similar to the eternity band, the gemstones in a channel-set band are set into a deep groove etched into the surface of the ring. 

Round diamonds and princess-cut gems are the most commonly used in these settings, but they can be cut into any shape one fancies.

Channel-set bands are comfortable to wear and are not tugged off easily. Likewise, the way the stones are set means that they won't snag on clothing or be knocked about, making them a most practical choice for daily wear.

Pave Bands: Maximum Sparkle

The pave band features diamonds in a high-profile setting that enables them to catch light from multiple angles, making them look brighter and more brilliant. The prongs on a pave band are v-shaped so as to expose most of the gem's surface to light. 

Likewise, you can barely see any metal in a pave setting: the diamonds or other gemstones take center stage here and are shown off to full effect. However, there's a drawback: it can get damaged more easily and the position of the stones has the very real possibility of getting them knocked off.

 

Bead Ring by Oliver Cabell

 

Five-stone Bands: A Brilliant Variation on a Theme

In this variation on the theme of eternity bands, five-stone bands may resemble the half-eternity at first, but the five equal-sized stones studding the head of the ring are larger and more prominent.

Five-stone bands are quite popular with couples who may choose stones to symbolize certain aspects of their relationship or aspirations they have for the future.

They are quite chic and sophisticated, but they can be troublesome if the ring shifts and the stones dig into the sides of your fingers. That said, these are a bit too fancy for daily wear and are better worn for formal events.

Twisted Bands: A Potent Symbol of Unity

Made with two intertwining metal bands, often in metals of contrasting colors, the twisted band is the perfect way to celebrate the union between two loving hearts. While the unique design is visually striking on its own, some jewelers add tiny embellishments to enhance each ring's beauty.

Twist Ring in 18k Gold by Oliver Cabell

 

Matching Curved Bands: The Art of Symmetry

For some women, wedding rings are worn in tandem with their engagement rings. In which case, these two pieces of jewelry need to complement rather than clash with each other. Those who opt for this tend to have their bands designed in a way that they capture some of the aesthetic essences of their engagement rings.

Matching curved bands aren't truly circular, as these tend to be made in the V or wishbone styles - a throwback to the Celts who saw the shape as a symbol of wealth, hope, and good fortune. Settings also tend to have the same type of gemstone as the engagement ring.