Sleek and formal, most men’s wedding bands have minimalist designs. However, some men’s wedding bands grab your attention with bright colors, patterns or textures. Whether you want to match your partner’s ring or make your own statement, you’ll find dozens of options on the market.
1. Silicone
At first glance, silicone rings look like metal rings with a matte finish. They are cheaper and more durable than traditional bands, making them ideal for people with hard labor jobs. They’re flexible, bendable, and nonconductive, and they don’t shatter when you drop them.
You can choose from minimalist rings with smooth surfaces and textured bands that appear to have ridges or scales. Popular color options include teal, gray, pink, black, and forest green. If you’d rather get married with a traditional ring, you could wear the metal ring to formal events and keep the silicone ring for everyday use.
2. Tungsten
Tungsten rings for men are some of the strongest rings on the planet. In fact, tungsten is so durable that manufacturers use this metal for spark plugs, drill bits, darts, and golf club heads. Tungsten bands also have a bright, polished surface and come in various shades.
If you want a gold ring without the high price tag, tungsten can replicate the appearance of different metals, including silver, rose gold, and yellow gold. Some bands even have colorful inlays. Plus, tungsten is one of the most scratch-resistant materials on the market, so it stands up to everyday use.
3. Carbon Fiber
Instead of metal, carbon fiber rings feature thin carbon filaments that artists weave together to replicate the look of wood or metal. These rings are lightweight and hypoallergenic, making them popular with people who have metal allergies. However, carbon fiber is conductive, so these rings are unsafe for electricians to wear on the job site.
4. Rose Gold
Rose gold has a pink or reddish hue that gives this metal its characteristic romantic glow. It’s also stronger than yellow gold and requires less maintenance. Women’s wedding rings tend to have glittering gemstones that make rose gold look pink, while men’s wedding bands bring out the reddish shades. Polished finishes are standard because they bring out the coppery sheen.
5. Damascus Steel
Damascus steel has a strong, durable construction and an attractive rippled pattern. Centuries ago, this metal was popular for making swords. This method was lost for ages until craftsmen figured out how to replicate the technique by hammering alloys together, creating a multilayered piece that’s difficult to break.
Today, Damascus steel is a popular material for kitchen knives, but you can also buy rings with the same sturdy layers and distinct ripples. Many Damascus steel rings have a wood-grain pattern that makes the layers stand out. Black, silver, and gold are popular hues that complement the matte or glossy finish.
6. Titanium
If you want a ring that will last for decades, titanium rings are rust- and corrosion-resistant. While they’re not invincible, they require minimal maintenance and won’t change colors. They also feel lightweight and come in a variety of shades. Titanium is excellent for people with active lifestyles who don’t want to invest in regular upkeep.
7. Gold
Traditionally, grooms have opted for gold wedding bands, but yellow gold is softer and pricier than many other metals. When you want a tougher ring, look for one made from a different metal, such as a copper alloy like brass or bronze that resembles yellow gold. They’re less expensive and have the same warm, inviting glow.
8. Silver
Silver is one of the most popular metals because it’s cheaper than white gold but has the same attractive shine. However, silver can tarnish, so you’ll need to keep your ring dry and safe and clean it periodically. Otherwise, you might have to take it to a professional for cleaning.
9. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel often appears in kitchen appliances because it’s durable, non-corrosive, and easy to maintain. These same principles apply to stainless steel rings, creating a bold, durable gift that lasts a lifetime. Typically, stainless steel bands appear in neutral shades that invite you to appreciate the metal’s natural beauty.
10. Inlay
These rings feature a metal base with one or more inlays in the center that create a striped appearance. Tungsten carbide and titanium steel are standard bases. In the center, the inlay offers a bright pattern or colorful mosaic.
If the groom loves the outdoors, choose a ring with natural inlays, such as koa wood, sandalwood, or abalone shells. More eclectic materials include elk antlers, whiskey barrels, fire opals, meteorites, and even dinosaur bones. Whatever you choose, these rings offer a glimpse into the wearer’s personality.
11. Black
Black wedding rings are a little unconventional, but they’re versatile and pair well with virtually any outfit. They also make a minimalist statement for a groom who doesn’t want jewelry with any frills. Your material options include tungsten, silicone, titanium, and carbon fiber. Glossy is a standard finish, but some black rings have matte or etched surfaces.
Start Shopping Today
It’s never too early to start browsing and planning your wedding budget. Men’s wedding rings don’t have to set you back thousands of dollars — in fact, some cost only a fraction of your paycheck. With an affordable ring, you’ll have plenty of room in your budget for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration.
