ISSUE FW’26
In our new FW’26 issue, we take you to the south of France and to Renée and Jan’s wedding, which was a celebration of love, friendship and style. We also sit down with Louis Abel founder Jimmy Loutfi for an in-depth interview about how his own wedding rings marked the start of a new chapter in fine jewellery, and look ahead to New York Bridal Fashion Week for the silhouettes, details and ideas that will set the tone for the coming season.
The Jewellery Guide
How to Find the Right Wedding and Engagement Ring as a Man – A Style Guide for Men
The ring for him has taken on a whole new significance in the world of weddings. From materials and finish to width, profile and personalised details. We’ll guide you through the choices behind a ring designed to be worn every day.
Wedding and engagement rings for men have gone from being a niche item to an established norm. The days when engagement rings for men were simply plain, smooth gold bands are long gone.
Today, men’s rings are available in a wide range of materials, finishes and styles, so that anyone can find something to suit their personality and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for your first wedding ring or want to choose an engagement ring together with your partner, this guide will help you find the right one.
Materials & Carats. What Should You Choose?
When it comes to wedding rings, the choice of material is crucial for both appearance and durability. The most common choices are 18k, 14k and 9k gold – three options with different characteristics.
- 18k gold has the highest gold content, giving it a deeper tone and a rich lustre. At the same time, it is softer, which gives the ring a natural patina over time.
- 14k gold is a balanced option, with a fine lustre and good wear resistance, making it well suited for everyday wear.
- 9k gold is the most durable of the three and a practical choice for those who wish to minimise the risk of scratches and wear.
White gold is popular with those who prefer a more modern, cool look. White gold is often rhodium-plated, which gives it an extra-strong sheen and a silver-coloured appearance. To preserve its character over time, the rhodium plating can be renewed at regular intervals.
Finish & Surface Treatment
The finish of a ring affects how it looks and feels. A polished ring has a shine and reflects light beautifully; this is a timeless and classic choice. A matt ring, on the other hand, has a more understated, modern look that is very popular at the moment. It reduces reflections and provides a sophisticated, subdued finish.
A brushed finish is something of a hybrid; it has a little sheen but not as much as a fully polished ring. It provides an interesting texture and can conceal small scratches better than a fully polished surface. For those looking for something truly unique, there are also hammered and sandblasted finishes that create a personalised, almost artistic effect. As well as style, it’s worth considering how the ring will be worn in everyday life. A polished surface may need refreshing over time, whilst a matt or brushed finish is more practical for those with an active lifestyle.
Width & Profile. Finding the Right Fit
A wedding ring is as much about feel as it is about material. How it sits on the hand matters a great deal. Width is a matter of personal preference, but there are a few guidelines that are worth bearing in mind.
- A narrow ring (2–3 mm) gives a light and modern look, perfect for those who want something discreet.
- A medium-width ring (4–5 mm) has a timeless character and suits most hands; it’s a balanced width that neither dominates nor gets lost.
- A wide ring (6+ mm) makes a bolder statement and often suits men with larger hands or those who want the ring to really stand out.
The profile of the ring is also important – that is, how it curves around your finger. A ring with a concave interior is very popular amongst men, as it is both comfortable and elegant. A flat profile offers a more classic look. Try a few different styles before you decide. The width and profile should feel natural from the very first moment.
Engraving: A Personal Touch
One way to personalise the ring is to add an engraving on the inside. This could be a date, initials, a short message or something entirely unique that only you and your partner know. An engraving turns the ring into more than just a piece of jewellery; it becomes a keepsake to carry with you. At Coliène, engraving is included at no extra cost, so you can easily add a personal touch to your ring.
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