What is the average cost of a men’s wedding band?
What is the average cost of a men’s wedding band?
$150 – $1,000 average cost (gold wedding band)
$100 – $600 average cost (titanium or tungsten wedding band)
Average cost of men’s wedding band
The average cost of a men’s wedding band is $100 to $1,000, depending on the material, width, style, and finish. Most men's wedding bands are made of white or yellow gold, platinum, titanium, or tungsten. Adding diamonds or having a message engraved in your ring increases the total cost.
National Average Cost | $550 |
Minimum Cost | $50 |
Maximum Cost | $2,000 |
Average Range | $100 to $1,000 |
Cost of men’s wedding rings by material
Men’s wedding rings vary in price depending on the material. White and yellow gold rings are classic but not as durable as platinum, which is usually the most expensive material available. Black tungsten rings have gained popularity in recent years due to their modern, masculine appearance.
Material | Average total cost | Details |
---|---|---|
Yellow gold | $150 – $1,000 | Doesn’t tarnish easily |
White gold | $150 – $1,000 | May contain nickel |
Platinum | $300 – $2,000 | Most expensive and durable option |
Titanium | $100 – $600 | Lightweight and contemporary |
Tungsten | $100 – $400 | Durable and affordable |
Stainless steel | $50 – $150 | Cheap but durable |
Sterling silver | $50 – $100 | Tarnishes over time |
Men’s wedding band cost factors
The following factors influence the cost of a men's wedding band:
Style – Carved, engraved, beveled, or multi-toned rings cost more than a simple, unadorned band.
Width – Men’s wedding bands are typically 6 to 8 mm wide. Some bands are thinner and less expensive, while others are thicker and cost more.
Gold karat – Pure gold is 24 karats and does not rust or tarnish. 10- to 18-karat gold or white gold is mixed with other metals like copper, palladium, or nickel and will tarnish over time without regular cleaning or polishing.
Finish – Polished and matte are the most popular and inexpensive finishes. Brushed or hammered rings typically cost more.
Alternate materials – Adding diamonds, gemstones, wood, antler, carbon fiber, or special metal designs costs extra. Silicone wedding bands cost $10 to $50 and are lightweight and comfortable. Some people use silicone rings as a backup or wear them while working.
Retailer – Independent jewelers or Etsy shop owners typically charge much less than large chain retailers. Custom or bespoke bands can cost more than, as much as, or less than pre-made rings depending on the store.
Insurance – Adding ring insurance costs extra and covers loss, theft, or damage. Insurance is typically recommended for jewelry worth more than $1,000.
Saving money on men’s wedding bands
To save money on a wedding band, follow as many of these tips as possible:
Choose a less expensive metal.
Shop online.
Use a family heirloom when possible.
Take advantage of sales.
Avoid peak ring-buying season between Thanksgiving and Valentine's Day.
Men’s wedding band vs. engagement ring
Engagement rings cost $1,000 to $6,000 on average, depending on the setting, stone, and size. Diamond solitaire settings are typically the cheapest, while halos are the most expensive. Gemstone rings cost $100 to $3,000 and can help save money, but the stones often cloud or scratch more easily than diamonds.
Men’s wedding band FAQs
Where do I buy a men’s wedding band?
You can buy a men’s wedding band online or in-store at retailers like Jared’s, Modern Gents, Manly Bands, or Etsy. Some big box stores like Costco also sell wedding bands for lower prices than jewelers.
Who buys the men’s wedding band?
Unlike engagement rings, men’s wedding bands weren’t commonly worn until the 20th century. Because it’s such a young tradition, there’s no right or wrong way to buy the wedding band. Some men buy their own band, while others are gifts from their spouse-to-be.
How should a men’s wedding band fit?
A wedding band should be tight enough that it doesn’t fall off but not so tight that it cuts off circulation, especially when the hands swell during exercise or work. If your knuckles are bigger than the base of your finger, it may take some effort to get it past the knuckle.
Can men’s wedding bands be resized?
Professionals typically don’t resize rings made of tungsten or titanium or rings with complex designs. If your ring is too big but your jeweler can’t resize it, try using a DIY ring adjuster made of silicone or plastic.
Getting estimates from wedding band jewelers
Before buying anything from a jeweler, follow these steps:
Compare several prices from reputable retailers.
Read their reviews on Fash and Google.
Make sure they have a business license, insurance, and certificates for any diamonds they sell.
Avoid extremely low prices, which usually indicate low-quality materials.
Ask for a warranty or certificate before buying the ring.
Make sure any financing they offer is fair and reasonable.
Questions to ask jewelers
Consider asking the following questions to find the best jeweler possible:
How long has your business been making or selling wedding bands?
Do you have GIA certificates for your rings?
What type of metal do you recommend for me?
Do you have any deals on wedding band and engagement ring bundles?
Do you offer a warranty?
Do you offer free resizing if the ring doesn't fit?
Will you clean any rings purchased here?