The average age that men get married is 30, while the average age for women is 28. That means you could be wearing your wedding rings for a very long time. At some point, your style might change, you may be looking for a great anniversary gift, or you could just want a different engagement ring or wedding band. Here are 10 simple ways to make an upgrade while still honoring your original ring.
Change the Stone
One simple way to update your engagement ring is to change the stone. Perhaps you have a traditional, round stone and would like to get something more modern. While changing your center stone can be an expensive option depending on what you choose, it can also have the biggest impact while preserving part of the original ring.
Change the Setting
Another way to update your ring if you want to keep the original stone is to change the setting. If you have a prong setting, try a halo setting. A halo setting can make a stone look larger and brighter. If you want something more modern, look at a tension setting, which can make your stone look like it’s floating. There are multiple settings to choose from, so speak to your jeweler to find out what would work best with your current stone.
Change the Metal
Changing the metal of your ring, while using your original stone and possibly even the original setting, can give you an update without a shocking change. Perhaps you have a gold ring and would like platinum. Or, you may want to be on-trend and opt for a rose gold metal.
Add an Engraving
If you and your spouse have matching wedding bands, you could add an engraving as a special surprise or anniversary gift. Choose something meaningful to you both, and keep in mind that it will have to be short or small depending on the size of the wedding bands.
Incorporate Color
Perhaps you have a stunning diamond, but you’re looking to incorporate some color. Try adding sapphires or rubies on either side of the original stone. Some people like to add the birthstones of their children to personalize their ring down the road.
Add Accents
Don’t forget that your ring has a profile. It’s the perfect spot to add some peek-a-boo accents that can also greatly enhance the sparkle factor.
Try a Different Shape
Sometimes, just trying a different shape can give you exactly what you’re looking for. If you have a princess cut ring, try an asymmetrical cut to update your style. If you have a thin or delicate ring, try one that’s thicker or more substantial.
Reuse a Stone
If you don’t like the idea of replacing your engagement ring because it’s meaningful, don’t rule out reusing a different stone, such as a family heirloom, or repurposing your stone in another piece of jewelry. That way, your wedding rings will still have significance and you can design an entirely new piece.
Improve or Add Wedding Bands
If you don’t already have wedding bands, consider adding them. Wedding bands can change the look of your engagement ring, given the endless styles available. You can find a wedding band that matches your engagement ring, or you can go with a completely different style. If you feel like your ring doesn’t have enough sparkle, look at bands that can incorporate more stones. If you already have wedding bands, you can change them by adding stones or changing the metal.
Buy or Design Something New
While many people want to keep some original part of their wedding rings, there are some that decide to buy or design new ones altogether. This can be the perfect opportunity to choose rings with your spouse if you were surprised with an engagement ring decades ago. You may even want to pass on your original ring to your children if they’re about to be married, which could be even more meaningful to them.
If you’ve been thinking about ways to upgrade your wedding ring, consider some of these ideas. You don’t have to change much to give your ring new life. However, you also have the option to start from scratch and pass your original one on to a new generation.