Wedding Ring Finishes and Profiles

Expanding from my last article I am highlighting several other factors which could be an important element to designing your perfect Engagement, Eternity or Wedding ring. I am gradually becoming more involved in design appointments, explaining the different options of ring profiles, finishes and learning the possibilities of engraving. I will take you on the journey I am experiencing with the ever expanding training I am given.

I will expand on the types of finishes which I first mentioned in my last article. Beading is a technique done by the Stone Setter. He uses two methods depending on the effect you are trying to achieve. First is Mill graining, done by using a wheel with spokes pressed firmly onto the surface of the metal. A fabulous technique if you want to create a line of beading running down the shoulders of your engagement ring, creating an antique, Victorian influenced design. Beading over a larger surface is done by pushing up a small quantity of metal and rounding off the metal to create a smooth ball effect. This is great if you want to create an illusion effect around a stone.

Everyone has a personal preference as to ring profiles, as it affects the overall look of your ring and comfort when being worn. If you have no idea the best place to start is a 3mm wide flat and D-shape profiled ring.

A flat profile will give you a depth of approximately 1.5mm. If you want an angular, crisp edges or Art Deco design then this is a great profile to go for. If you like this profile but want a more soften edge then this can be easily done.

If you love the flat profile but feel the ring would be or is uncomfortable to wear then a great option is flat profile with a slightly curved inside. This is like a highbred of a flat and court profile. Another advantage of a curved inside is if you are not used to wearing rings this is ideal due to less contact of metal on the finger.

A D-shape profile is popular among people who want a feminine, soft design. The fact that the edges are curved, reflecting the light, giving an illusion that the band isn’t as wide. Perfect for that delicate appearance you might want to achieve.

A courting profile is similar to a D-shape but with a slightly curved inside. Again adding comfort when worn but does increase the depth. A heavy courting ring is emphasising the inside and outside curve, making the depth approximately 2.5mm. Here is a comparison between a courting and a heavy courting ring.

Lastly a Halo profile is a completely round band, seen a lot among fashion stacking rings. You would ideally want to stay within a 3mm width.

I hope I have given you more food for thought and a step closed in designing your perfect Engagement, Eternity or Wedding ring. The best advice I can give is to try these rings on, feel and look at the profile, in a mirror and looking down at your finger until you are 100% happy you have the perfect ring profile.