A comparison of light-weight, medium-weight and heavy-weight wedding rings.
We create most plain wedding ring styles in several different thicknesses. Keep in mind that we refer to thickness (depth) rather than width.
We create each plain wedding ring style in a choice of light, medium and heavy weights.
Depth and metal weight
The depth of a ring affects the overall weight in any given finger size. The gram weight of most precious metals influences the cost. For this reason, a heavy-weight band costs far more than a light-weight band.
| Profile | Light Weight | Medium Weight | Heavy Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Widths | 2mm-8mm | 2mm-8mm | 2mm-8mm |
| Depth | 1.3mm | 1.7mm | 2.1mm |
| Finger Sizes | F-Z+ | F-Z+ | F-Z+ |
| Metals | All | All | All |
| Fingerprint Engraving | No | Yes | Yes |
| Standard Engraving | Yes | Yes | Yes |
–
Light-weight wedding rings
Example – Mottistone RWD002 light court wedding ring
Our lightweight band is also known as a low-profile band. In a typical court light-weight wedding ring, this style has a depth of 1.3mm, making this the thinnest option. A slim wedding ring has two main advantages. Platinum wedding bands provide a lighter, more comfortable and more affordable option. Secondly, the shallow profile on the finger is less noticeable and more relaxed when the hand is closed. Lighter profiles make wider men’s wedding rings less expensive compared to other heavier designs. But, if you’re considering an engraving such as a fingerprint design, we suggest a heavier design.
Medium-weight wedding rings
Example – Osborne RWD001 medium-weight court wedding ring
A medium-weight court profile band is our most popular wedding band. The thickness, or depth, of the wall measures 1.7mm. Medium profile rings balance a substantial weight—neither too light or too heavy. Furthermore, a 2.5mm ring matches most standard engagement ring bands. We craft a variety of Medium-weight wedding bands in flat, court (with comfort fit) and D-shape designs. We sell medium-weight rings as our standard-weight designs. For clients who request a guide to the gram weight, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us with your preferred style, width and finger size.
Heavy-weight wedding rings
Example – Alverstone RWD014 heavy-weight court wedding ring
Heavy-weight wedding rings suit large fingers, especially when made in widths over 6mm. Based on our court ring design, they offer a chunky feel with a depth of typically 2.1mm or more. Heavier weight bands with deeper walls make suitable bands for setting diamonds, often used as eternity rings. Princess-cut diamonds require a heavy ring profile on account of their depth. Diamonds set into lighter profiles may protrude through the underside of the ring. By measuring both the depth of the ring and the depth of the intended diamonds, a jeweller can assess the suitability of a band for adding diamonds.
Ensuring the correct finger size for your wedding ring
The most common dilemma faced by clients has to be finger size. Most plain bands are suitable for size adjustments, but patterned, engraved or customised wedding rings require the correct size. For this reason, we created a perfect size service alongside any purchase. Our video below explains how this works, available in our showroom or to order online.
How to get a heavy-weight wedding ring at a fraction of the cost
We have two suggestions if you would like a heavy-weight wedding ring without the cost of a heavy ring (owing to the extra gram weight of the metal).
Consider 9-Carat Gold
Firstly consider 9-carat gold instead of 18-carat gold. This lighter option makes a more affordable precious metal choice, available in white, yellow and rose gold colours.
Consider a Titanium wedding band
We also suggest affordable Titanium wedding rings in an exciting range of styles. Most Titanium designs measure 7mm width in heavy-weight designs. We never price Titanium wedding rings by gram weight, unlike precious metal rings. For this reason, heavy, wide designs make an affordable choice of ring. Moreover, any engraving and custom effect can be applied.
Best wedding rings for engravings
If you are considering engraving, we suggest a medium-weight wedding band. As mentioned already, fingerprint rings require at least a medium depth. A medium-weight wedding band allows plenty of depth for any pattern cut into the ring by laser engraving.
View examples below or find out more on our dedicated fingerprint wedding ring page explaining how we turn a wedding ring into a fingerprint ring.
Medium-weight bands engraved with fingerprints as part of our bespoke wedding ring service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wider rings feel snugger, but thicker rings feel no tighter since the inner diameter remains the same as a ring with less depth. However, some ring profiles feel looser owing to the internal shape—for example, flat court bands.
Rings can feel looser over time, but this is usually due to weight loss or seasonal fluctuations, such as a drop in temperature. Warmer seasons result in a tighter fit by comparison.
Yes. Test this by closing your fingers while wearing a shallow ring. By comparison, a deep ring feels less comfortable.
Referring to weight, Titanium is the lightest metal for a ring. This non-precious metal provides a low-cost alternative to heavier precious metals. We create Titanium wedding rings in various widths, styles and finger sizes.
If your ring can be shaken off your hand, it’s too large. To ensure the correct finger size, make sure your wedding ring can only be removed when your hand is outstretched and the ring needs to be slipped over the knuckle. Ensure your ring size is snug. Otherwise, you risk loss during everyday wear.
About Mark Johnson
My name is Mark and I'm founder at Serendipity Diamonds. I have 30 years or experience in polished diamonds and jewellery. Today, I work with an expert team in our Isle of Wight jewellery showroom located in Ryde. Most of my work involves helping clients in our showroom, working on our two websites and photographing jewellery commissions.
