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COURTESY OF KALAN / DESIGN BY BAILEY MARINER
Your engagement ring isn't the only special piece of jewelry you'll be wearing on your big day—your wedding band should be just as unique. But long gone are the days of sleek and simple gold rings; now, there are plenty of ways to make your mark with your bridal band. After all, while the engagement ring represents a promise, the wedding ring really seals the deal. When it comes to finding a unique wedding ring, it's important to consider details that are a bit out of the box. "The nature of custom or one of a kind is that the metal, gemstone, and style options could be anything within the realm of possibility," says jewelry designer Michelle Fantaci, who we spoke to along with Costanté founder Connie Hung. "It's a beautiful thing to celebrate your personal love story with a ring that is unique and meaningful to you."
Meet the Expert
- Michelle Fantaci is an expert jewelry designer and artisan who is the owner of Michelle Fantaci Fine Jewelry based in New York City.
- A self-taught jewelry designer, Connie Hung is the founder and creative director of Costanté.
Aside from multiple metal options or even two-toned bands, a unique wedding ring design may utilize various shapes, such as hexagons or squares. According to Fantaci, she has used trillions, trapezoids, and hexagons in original custom designs, but some clients have opted for traditional emerald or round cuts as well. As for the price tag, it really depends on a variety of factors. However, there are options for every couple and their individual budget. "Wedding bands can start at $500 for a simple 14k gold band and go upward of $50,000 for full Gemstone Institute of America–certified diamond eternity bands," says Connie Hung.
There are several design details that can truly set your wedding ring apart. Here are a few to consider:
- Brushed or two-toned metals
- Unique shapes
- Engravings or etchings
- Distinctive gemstones.
Read on for the best unique wedding rings for every style and budget.
Best Knife Edge
Lizzie Mandler Othello Split Knife Edge Ring
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Courtesy of Lizzie Mandler
Price at time of publish: $3,560
Who says a white diamond pavé is your only option? This ring utilizes 18k gold featuring a knife edge and black and white diamonds.
Best in Platinum
Michael M Wedding Band #R575B
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Courtesy of Michael M
Price at time of publish: $2,070
This gorgeous design just loves to play with diamond placement. Incorporating resilient white gold and a partial pavé, this is one dreamy band.
Best Criss-Cross Shape
Harry Kotlar Artisan Pavé Bloom
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Courtesy of Harry Kotlar
Price at time of publish: Price upon request
Go platinum with this shining band. With a criss-cross band and stunning pavé details, this ring is nothing short of glamorous.
Best Infinity Twist
Blue Nile Openwork Alternating Infinity Twist Eternity Ring
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Courtesy of Blue Nile
Price at time of publish: $1,690
The mesmerizing movement of this elegant infinity twist band is oh-so-charming. Incorporating pavé-set white diamonds on a 14k white gold band, there are so many exquisite features to fall in love with.
Best with Champagne Diamonds
Eva Fehren Kissing Claw 18K Rose Gold Ring with Pale Champagne Diamonds
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Courtesy of Eva Fehren
Price at time of publish: $6,450
Switch up the traditional yellow gold band for a unique rose gold option. This piece pairs rose gold with pale champagne diamonds and a unique band shape for a lovely option.
Best with Black Sapphires
Shane & Co. Prestige Natural Diamond and Black Natural Sapphire Contour Wedding Band
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Courtesy of Shane Co.
Price at time of publish: $885
According to Fantaci, sapphires are hard stones that are durable enough for day-to-day wear. And with this option, you can have the best of both worlds with a pairing of white diamonds and black sapphires all set in a rose gold contour band.
Best Engraved
Nora Kogan Je T'aime #3 Band
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Courtesy of Nora Kogan
Price at time of publish: $3,400
a sweet reminder engraved into your wedding band to always think of your partner. This yellow gold band incorporates a white diamond pavé and a sweet engraving saying, "Je T'aime."
Best Double-Ended
Jane Taylor Meeting Arrows Yellow Gold Ring with White Topaz
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Courtesy of Jane Taylor Fine Jewelry
Price at time of publish: $1,355
Switch up the traditional circular band with a double-ended arrow band that doesn't quite meet in the middle. The addition of white topaz set in this yellow gold band is simply stunning.
Best Unique Eternity Band
Todd Reed Black Diamond Wandering Eternity Band
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Courtesy of Todd Reed
Price at time of publish: Price upon request
Long gone are the days of only being able to get a straight-edged, round ring. Turn the typical eternity band on its head with stunning black diamonds and a wavy band.
Best without Gemstones
Ruth Tomlinson Yellow Gold Double Beaded Wedding Band
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Courtesy of Ruth Tomlinson
Price at time of publish: $609
It's perfectly fine to opt for no gemstones in your band. But you can still get a bit of a decorative touch if you look for beading. This yellow gold option is just beaming with beaded detailing.
Most Colorful
Leo Black The Mystical Eternity Band
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Courtesy of Catbird
Price at time of publish: $1,500
Step out of the box in a big way with different shapes, colors, and stones. This bold piece incorporates a yellow gold band; emerald, turquoise, citrine stones; and black, white, and yellow diamonds.
Best Yellow Gold
Todd Reed Yellow Gold Pavé Eternity Band
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Courtesy of Todd Reed
Price at time of publish: Price upon request
Opt for a traditional yellow gold band, but make it shine. This ring incorporates white and silver diamonds around the band for a bit of sparkle.
Best Enhancer
Gabriel & Co. 14K White Gold Diamond Ring Enhancer
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Courtesy of Gabriel & Co.
Price at time of publish: $3,600
Pair this unique white gold band with your engagement ring to really make it shine. This unique design incorporates white diamonds to make your duo of rings shine even brighter.
Best Asymmetrical Style
Marli New York White Gold and Diamond Asymmetrical Index Ring
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Courtesy of Marli NYC
Price at time of publish: $2,100
Playing with asymmetrical designs is such a fun way to achieve a unique look. This gorgeous option is crafted with 18k white gold with channel-set and pronged brilliant-cut diamonds. The "Index" ring also comes in rose and yellow gold.
Best with Marquise Diamonds
Gabriel & Co. 14K White and Rose Gold Diamond Ring Enhancer
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Courtesy of Gabriel New York
Price at time of publish: $4,450
This glitzy band is anything but boring. For the floral lover who also loves a little glam, this ring pairs rose gold with white gold details and marquise diamond buds.
Best Nature-Inspired
Sofia Kaman Single Leaf and Pod with Sapphire
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Courtesy of Sofia Kaman
Price at time of publish: $440
Opt for a dainty design, but incorporate a few special details. We love the way this textured gold ring incorporates a simple twig and a lovely blue sapphire for the nature-loving bride.
Most Romantic
Catbird Wedding Pas De Deux Ring
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Courtesy of Catbird
Price at time of publish: $410
We absolutely adore the meaningful symbolism of this affection and commitment-inspired band. With two hands embracing one another, this piece offers customizable metals and is bound to always be a reminder of your lifelong best friend.
Most Modern
Grace Lee Yellow Gold Beaded Diamond Eternity Ring
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Courtesy of Grace Lee
Price at time of publish: $335
Say goodbye to a traditional solid wedding band with this distinctive design. This yellow gold ring is wide with lovely beaded detailing throughout.
Best Wrap Style
Nak Armstrong Rose Gold Wrap Ring With White Diamonds
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Courtesy of Nak Armstrong
Price at time of publish: $5,900
At first glance, this wrap ring looks simple, but take a closer look at those intricate design details. Boasting recycled rose gold and tapered baguettes, this design is a dream.
Best Cigar Band
Nancy Newberg Yellow Gold Diamond Dotted Band
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Courtesy of Nancy Newberg
Price at time of publish: $2,800
Look for something out-of-the-box while staying true to traditional details. This gold band is a bit wider than traditional wedding bands, and dots of white diamonds add a bit of shine.
Best Clean Edges
Sofia Kaman Gold Infinity Ring With Diamond Accents
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Courtesy of Sofia Kaman
Price at time of publish: $2,300
Play with modern design and clean edges with a lovely infinity ring. We love the contrast between the solid gold portion and the pavé diamonds.
For the Unfussy Bride
Satomi Kawakita Spaced Diamond Band
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Courtesy of Catbird
Price at time of publish: $974
What a beautiful way to play with a standard wedding band. This yellow gold band featuring white diamonds perfectly spaced apart is seriously stunning.
Best Wide Band
Sofia Kaman Yellow Gold Cracked Band With Pavé Set Diamonds
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Courtesy of Sofia Kaman
Price at time of publish: $3,930
Add the shimmer of white diamonds to a gold band but make it distinctive. This wide band incorporates diamonds in such an unusual, beautiful way.
Best Graphic Shape
Wwake Yellow Gold Micropavé Open Slice Ring
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Courtesy of Wwake
Price at time of publish: $895
We love the way this ring offers both a simple design but a striking look. With yellow gold, pavé diamonds, and an open-slice design, this ring makes a statement.
Most Vintage-Inspired
Single Stone Large Rose-Cut Gabby in Oxidized Rose Gold
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Courtesy of Single Stone
Price at time of publish: $9,000
Embrace a lovely vintage vibe with this ring. Choose an oxidized yellow gold band paired with bezel-set diamonds for a 1920s feel.
Best Gem Rainbow
Anna Sheffield Rainbow Grand Tiara Band
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Courtesy of Anna Sheffield
Price at time of publish: $1,100
If you're obsessed with color, your wedding band should reflect your personality. Play with multiple hues by opting for a ring that incorporates seven different bold shades.
For the Bold Bride
Sofia Kaman Diamond Stripe Torn Paper Band-10MM
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Courtesy of Sofia Kaman
Price at time of publish: $2,480
Choose a unique wide band with a bit of shine. This design pairs a contrasting matte yellow gold band with a striking stripe of diamonds right in the center for sparkle.
Most Sleek
Anna Sheffield White Gold Tapered Orbit Band
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Courtesy of Anna Sheffield
Price at time of publish: $525
Opt for a simple white gold band but with a twist. This design feels celestial with a simple V-shape in the center.
Best Art Deco-Inspired
Capucinne Modern Art Deco Triangle Diamond Band
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Courtesy of Capucinne
Price at time of publish: $4,600
Have a little fun with an unexpected shape to put a twist on a classic style. Brilliant white triangular-shaped diamonds are set in 18k solid gold prongs. Elegant yet bold, this piece offers the perfect balance between timeless and modern.
Most Sweet
Adel Chefridi Shimmer Band
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Courtesy of Adel Chefridi
Price at time of publish: $3,740
Make a statement with a whole lot of shimmer. This yellow gold band is decked out in diamonds for a lovely sparkle.
Most Textured
Sofia Kaman Gold Textured Branch Ring
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Courtesy of Sofia Kaman
Price at time of publish: $590
Celebrate your love for nature with this textured design. The inspiration drawn from twirling branches gives this matte yellow gold ring a whimsical feel.
Most Sophisticated
Harry Kotlar Yellow Gold Textured Victorian Band with Diamonds
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Courtesy of Harry Kotlar
Price at time of publish: Price upon request
We can't get over this subtle yet stunning design. This textured yellow gold band with diamonds throughout is such a sophisticated option.
Best Antique Center Stone
WWAKE Carré Diamond Monolith Ring
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Courtesy of WWake
Price at time of publish: $2,415
With an antique diamond center stone, this art deco–inspired ring is made for the edgy, unconventional, and minimalistic bride. The irregular yet the intriguing placement of the square-shaped stone immediately catches the eye.
Most Regal
Mociun Connection Band
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Courtesy of Mociun
Price at time of publish: $2,200
This design just screams regal. With a square yellow gold band and white diamonds, this crenelated design symbolizes building a strong wall or partnership together.
Best Promise Ring
Capucinne Promise Ring in 14k Gold Diamond
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Courtesy of Capucinne
Price at time of publish: $600
Talk about a unique gold band. We love the symbolism of this ring as it links together with three dainty diamonds randomly scattered in the center.
Best Wavy Style
Sophie Bille Brahe Ensemble Ocean Ring
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Courtesy of Sophie Billie Brahe
Price at time of publish: $9,991
Bring your love for the ocean into your wedding ring design. This yellow gold ring incorporates inspiration from ocean waves paired with diamonds all the way around.
For the Outdoorsy Bride
Brilliant Earth Everest Wedding Ring
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COURTESY OF BRILLIANT EARTH
Price at time of publish: $1,490
Symbolizing the many highs and lows of your life together, this customizable wedding band features a breathtaking image of Mount Everest that is etched into this brushed-matte band. Inspired by the natural beauty of the earth, this piece is undoubtedly memorable.
Most Celestial Inspired
Capucinne Gold Moon Phase Ring Diamond Ring in 14K Yellow Gold
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Courtesy of Capucinne
Price at time of publish: $750
Both mysterious and magical, this moon-inspired ring is adorned with details reflecting the fading phases of the moon. Accompanied by a brilliant white diamond on a solid gold band, the matte finish adds an alluring and inviting touch.
For the Retro Bride
Shane Co. Platinum Wedding Ring with Round White Diamonds
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Courtesy of Shane Co.
Price at time of publish: $2,280
Choosing a vintage-inspired design can truly make a ring feel timeless. This platinum band accomplishes just that with a stunning textured setting and white round diamonds all the way around.
What to Look for When Choosing a Unique Wedding Ring
Metal
When it comes to your wedding band, it all comes down to the metal. While the first choice that comes to mind may be the selection between rose, white, or yellow gold, there are other unique ways to transform your piece into one that truly connects to you and your partner.
Consider incorporating an engraving to create a sentimental value. "The most common engravings we see are usually dates and initials. The most unique are those who create a design or logo to be engraved into the piece," says Hung. Another way to elevate your look is to apply a striking finish. "Instead of the classic high-gloss finish, we recommend implementing a satin finish for a vintage look. For those who want to create a more industrial look, a matte finish definitely gives the ring more of an edge," Hung states.
Stone
Be intentional about the stones you select for your band, as this could very well become the focal point that determines the ultimate look. "Many times, those who want a unique engagement ring or wedding band make the choice of adding color through different gemstones," says Hung. "For those who still want to achieve a royal luxury feeling and look, emeralds and sapphires are the most suiting."
Whether you select a traditional white diamond, a sophisticated emerald or sapphire stone, or any other unexpected colored gem, there's a variety of ways to utilize stones and their cuts to create your own one-of-a-kind piece.
Style
There's no right or wrong way to design your wedding band. However, there's no doubt that there are reoccurring trends that continue to present themselves as tried-and-true favorites.
"In 2020, we began to see an increase in trends of rose gold engagement rings and wedding bands, a metal not as widely popular in the past. And as the vintage trend continues, we've seen an increase of customers choosing 18k gold over 14k for a bolder gold color," informs Hung. Whether you decide to go for something a little more understated or a little more bold, here is your opportunity to exhibit your personal style.
Why Trust Brides
Lauren Frankfort is a former assistant digital editor at Brides and an expert in lifestyle and fashion content. She is currently an executive digital producer at RPA.
Shane Clark is a former fashion and accessories editor at Brides, InStyle, and Harper's Bazaar. She is now a brand consultant for fine jewelry and fashion.