Wedding Ring Order: What You Need to Know Before You Buy
Ordering a wedding ring feels like a big step, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. The key is to know what you want, how much you can spend, and when to place your order. Below we break down the process into easy steps so you can move forward with confidence.
How to Choose the Right Ring
Start with the style. Do you like a classic solitaire, a halo setting, or something vintage? Look at pictures of rings you’ve seen on Instagram or in magazines and save the ones that catch your eye. When you have a handful, think about the metal – yellow gold, white gold, rose gold or platinum. Each metal ages differently and matches certain skin tones better.
Next, decide on the stone. Diamonds are the most popular, but sapphires, emeralds or morganite work too. If you go with a diamond, learn the four Cs – cut, colour, clarity and carat – because they affect both look and price. You don’t need the highest grade; a good cut in a slightly lower colour will still sparkle beautifully.
Budget comes into play early. Set a realistic spend range before you start browsing. A common rule is to allocate about 10‑15% of your total wedding budget to the rings, but you can adjust based on what matters most to you. Remember that custom work, engraving and special settings add extra cost.
Ordering Process and Timeline
Once you know the style, metal and stone, find a reputable jeweller. Look for reviews, ask for photos of recent work, and check that they provide a clear return or resizing policy. Many boutiques – especially in the Cotswolds – offer a free consultation where you can try on sample rings and discuss custom details.
Get your ring size right. The easiest way is to visit a jeweller for a professional measurement. If you’re ordering online, use a printable ring sizer or compare a ring you already own to a size chart. A mistake of even a half‑size can cost extra to fix later.
Ask the jeweller about the production timeline. Hand‑crafted or bespoke rings can take 4‑6 weeks, sometimes longer if you need a special cut or engraving. Order at least 8 weeks before your wedding date to give yourself a safety net for any adjustments.
When the ring arrives, inspect it carefully. Check the stone’s setting, the metal finish and the engraving. If anything looks off, contact the jeweller right away – most will fix issues before the big day.
Finally, protect your investment. Store the ring in a soft pouch, have it inspected annually, and consider a basic insurance policy. A well‑cared ring will stay beautiful for years, just like the memories it represents.
Ordering your wedding ring is a personal journey, but with a clear style, a set budget and a realistic timeline, it becomes a smooth part of your wedding planning. Take the time to enjoy each step – after all, you’re choosing a piece that will be with you for a lifetime.
