9 Alternatives To Traditional Wedding Rings

We all love to embrace what makes us different, and weddings are no exception. If you’re a thoroughly modern couple, or have your own quirky sense of style, then a traditional wedding band might not be your cup of tea.

Here are 8 original alternatives to traditional wedding bands to inspire you to make yours that little bit more unique:

1. Silicone
Do you enjoy an active lifestyle? Maybe the work you do means you aren’t allowed to wear a metal ring? Whatever your reason, a rubber wedding ring might be just up your street! Established in 2012 by two best friends who wanted a wedding ring that was safe and comfortable, silicone rings are taking the wedding industry by storm.

2. Metal and Wood
These stunning handcrafted rings combine sanded and polished wood with metallic elements. For something truly special, rings are also available that use materials such as titanium from the ejector nozzle of an SR-71 Blackbird reconnaissance plane, reclaimed teak wood from the deck of USS North Carolina, and wood from a Jack Daniel’s whiskey barrel.

3. Bespoke Design
If you like the idea of a more traditional ring, but want it to be full of your own personality, why not consider designing it yourself? Jewellers like Parnelle Diamonds offer a consultation and design service, where you can discuss your ideas, have your ring hand-sketched, and have a 3D computer model made of your design before receiving a handcrafted finished piece in just 4-6 weeks.

4. Fingerprints
Every individual’s fingerprints are completely unique to them, and this company offer an amazing way to personalise your wedding rings with each other’s fingerprints. Fingerprint designs can be displayed on the outside of the ring where everyone can see it, or on the inside of the ring, if you prefer a more subtle secret between just the two of you. Definitely different, and truly personal.

5. Cutlery
Handcrafted in Kilkeel, Northern Ireland, these rings are made from upcycled antique and vintage silver cutlery. If there are silver spoon heirlooms in your family, this could be a great idea to incorporate something old and something new in your big day. We hear the Duchess of Cornwall has even received a silver teaspoon ring from Loving Spoonful creator, John Bird!

6. Soundwaves
The day you say “I do” is an incredibly special one, and with custom waveform rings, you can keep that moment suspended in space and time. You and your other half record yourselves saying “I do” and email the sound files to a jeweller who makes 3D printed casts of your oaths, and then casts them into your wedding band.

7. Wooden
These rings are handmade in Chicago, with each moulded from a single piece of salvaged wood, then reinforced with industrial strength adhesive, which is nontoxic and has no Volatile Organic Compounds. These are perfect for eco-friendly couples, or those who adore nature. With free refinishing available for the lifetime of each of their rings, your special rings will always look great.

8. Celtic-Inspired
If you are interested in Irish heritage, or just appreciate Celtic-inspired design, you might want to go for something a little less plain for your wedding band. From the simple and beautiful Celtic knot, to the more intricate Claddagh design, there is something to suit all tastes. While there are many legends about the origins of the Claddagh ring, it’s accepted that the heart represents love, the crown represents loyalty, and the hands represent friendship, which are all perfect sentiments for a happy marriage.

9. Tattoo
For those who are more daring and adventurous, you may want to throw tradition out of the window altogether and go for something much more symbolic and permanent! From simple single lines, to the date of the big day, or a symbol that has meaning for the two of you – you can have something small that can be hidden by a traditional ring, or go for something more ornate that’s on display. There’s loads of options to choose from.
 
By Rachel Doherty, Excalibur Press

AUTUMN/WINTER 2017 EDITION AVAILABLE TO BUY ONLINE NOW