Contemporary/Alternative Wedding Bands Are on The Rise with Modern Couples
According to several authorities in wedding day marketing for couples, including The Knot, the most popular time of year to get married is in September and October. We can’t disagree as this is our slowest time of the year for wedding bands and engagement rings. Those special purchases are being presented to friends and families all over the nation by newly-wed couples during this time of year. So if you happen to be someone thinking about getting engaged or perhaps just starting your journey in ring and diamond education, then now is a great time to visit your local jeweler to build a relationship.
While the classic gold wedding band will never go out of style, grooms want options. Contemporary metal bands open a world of possibilities for the modern and unique couple.
Contemporary wedding bands use nontraditional materials to offer up fun color options and new designs. Men who identify with more rugged looks or darker color metals for their ring finger really love the options that are available to them in the contemporary ring arena. If you’re really looking to find or create something that perfectly suits your personal style, this trend may be for you.
So let’s explore contemporary metals and their benefits.
Precious metals vs. contemporary metals: What’s the difference?
When you hear the terms classic or precious metals, these are metals that possess a certain rarity that increases their value over time. Gold, platinum, palladium, and sterling silver are shining examples of these. The metal alloys used to make wedding bands made of precious metals are easy to work with and provide a range of possibilities when it comes to customization, such as engravings and finishes. Precious metal wedding bands are ideal for someone wanting a ring with a classic, timeless appeal that holds value and can be a potential heirloom.
Contemporary metals are more common than precious metals. This doesn’t mean that they aren’t valuable. These metals, such as tungsten, titanium, cobalt, stainless steel, tantalum, ceramic, and silicone, are reasonably durable and easy to maintain over time. They come in a variety of colors and styles that expand on the options of white, yellow, and rose that are offered in the precious metals.
Rings like these tend to appeal to grooms or couples wanting a comfortable, modern option with an accessible price point to meet all budgets.
Attributes: Contemporary metal wedding bands
While many couples may know exactly what they are looking for in a wedding band, that is not always the case. They (or you!) may be looking to their jeweler as an expert to help guide them through the process. If you’re a couple looking to understand why you should consider contemporary metal wedding bands, consider these three highlights
- Modern Style Options
Alternative colors and materials that stand out are one of the major benefits of contemporary metal wedding bands. Along with the popular yellow, white, and rose colors, you’ll find rings in black, gray, blue, and more. Materials like wood and meteorite also bring in new textures and designs that catch the eye. - Price Point
According to The Knot, the average groom is spending about half on his wedding band that the bride is spending. Precious metal options are great investment opportunities, but there are grooms that want more affordable options that still come with style. Contemporary metal wedding bands are set at price points that appeal to a wide range of budgets. - Durability and Maintenance
Each contemporary metal varies in its scratch and crack resistance, but all are pretty durable. They are the perfect rings for someone who works with their hands or is active. There is no concern about wearing these rings day after day and maintaining their quality. Unlike previous metals, they’ll hold their shape, resists scratches, and retain their luster.

Contact Gittelson Jewelers
As a jeweler, we are preparing for the busiest time of year. With the holiday shopping season, fall wedding season, and the holiday proposal season (which we refer to as engagement season) all approaching quickly, we’re working to provide options and resources for sourcing the perfect wedding bands for men.
Contact us today or make an appointment to stop in and chat us up.