How to Select a Ring for the Special Man in Your Life

Choosing a ring for the special man in your life isn't as hard as you might think, although it may

seem intimidating. Chances are, you know quite a bit about his taste and sense of style already.

Your man is, of course, one of a kind, and the men’s ring you choose for him should reflect his

tastes. If your relationship is just getting to that gift-buying stage, pick up cues from his

wardrobe for ideas on what will work.

Ask yourself a few basic questions to get started.

● Does he wear jewelry at all? If not, the simplest style band is your best bet. If he enjoys

wearing a bit of flash, think about his current jewelry pieces. Take notice of accessories

like belts, watches, even key rings, for hints about his preferred style.

● What are the colors and materials in his jewelry? Notice if he leans toward gold or silver.

He might be open to a unique piece like a burnished, rare wooden ring embellished with

inlaid black zirconium or titanium.

The Natural Look

He might be open to a unique piece like a burnished, rare wooden ring embellished with inlaid

black zirconium or titanium. Wood is gaining in popularity, especially among environmentally

conscious men. It is natural looking and available in a variety of styles. Wood does not conduct

electricity, so it's an ideal option for men who work with electrical wiring, equipment, or

machinery.

According to trend-watchers,1

many men are attracted to jewelry using newer, dark-colored

materials, including metals and stones. Look for interesting pieces that incorporate cool steel,

black carbon, or titanium. Also, choose designs and materials that connect your special man to an

appealing story or historical reference.

Example: mokume gane rings, like those designed by Alaska Jewelry, use the unique, richly

patterned steel perfected in 1600s Japan, to embellish elaborate Samurai swords with the

appearance of wood-grain patterns.

The Gold Standard

Many men, especially more traditional, conservative ones, are accustomed to gold jewelry. If

you spot gold pieces in his wardrobe, or notice gold accents on his belt buckles and watches, you

are on the right track. Even a classic gold band gives you a great variety of choices, ranging from

yellow, to the warmer rose-colored gold, or even white gold, which is an alloy of gold with

nickel, platinum, and other metals.

Some rings reflect a distinct, regional character, like the natural look of Alaskan gold nugget

jewelry. This bright, chunky gold is a strong accent feature that suggests the rugged history of

the Alaskan Gold Rush and the state’s pioneering spirit. Gold quartz offers another choice,

usually set into a gold band. The sparkle of white or dark midnight quartz veined with gold in its

natural state makes an impressive statement, offering a bold look for the right man.

Are you buying a ring to mark a special occasion, like a big birthday, anniversary, or career

milestone? Each of these occasions might suggest a different style or price point.

Special Occasion Rings: Men’s Wedding Bands

If you are choosing wedding rings, the decision is a bit more complicated since you need a

mutually agreed set of criteria. Here are a few pointers and ideas to keep in mind.

His and hers wedding bands are meant to last a lifetime, so it’s well worth taking time to

consider the options. There is no rule that says you have to be “matchy-matchy” for life, and you

may want two different styles for your wedding rings. Materials for the men’s band range from

yellow gold to rose gold, white gold, or platinum. Traditional looks feature diamonds for ladies

and plain bands for men. Today, there are many more choices for men who prefer a hint of

sparkle or mixed colors of gold tastefully added to their band as well.

The new concept of “man-gagement” rings reflects all kinds of changing trends—egalitarian

marriages, men who are confident in their masculinity, and women who want to make clear that

their “taken” status works both ways. Currently, only 5% of engaged men wear mangagement

rings, but some jewelers foresee steady growth.1

Often, the first ring serves both purposes—

engagement and wedding—simply adapting for use as the wedding ring on that special day.

Some couples, though, select or design a double set of rings for each partner.