If you’ve been to enough weddings, you’ve likely heard that wedding bands are a symbol that reflects eternal love and commitment with their endless circle. But what about wedding rings that don’t form a complete circle? Known as “open” wedding bands, these rings offer a beautiful aesthetic, a functional match to certain engagement ring styles, and a new symbol of love and marriage. Keep an open mind and read on to discover more about open wedding bands, including reasons you might want one.
What is an open wedding band?
Open wedding bands are finger rings that do not form a complete circle. Instead, a gap is left, creating a "C" shape like a cuff bracelet. However, while the gap of a cuff bracelet is typically worn hidden on the underside of your wrist, the gap in open wedding bands is face-up for the world to see. Open wedding bands may be worn solo, providing a subtle, unique and classy vibe. They also make a perfect pair for engagement rings whose gemstones may not allow a flush fit with traditional wedding bands.
Don’t let the whole “missing-chunk-of-ring” concept trick you into thinking this ring style can’t bring some dazzle. Like full-circle wedding bands, open wedding bands come in various metals, tones, designs and finishes. The almost-joined ends of the ring may feature gemstones or decorative elements or be made of smooth metal with a minimalistic design. Platinum, titanium, stainless steel and tungsten make strong, durable metal choices for open wedding bands. However, open rings made of softer metals like silver should be handled with extra care. The gap can weaken the ring’s structure, potentially making it more susceptible to damage. That’s why it's wise to insure this type of wedding band with a Jewelers Mutual policy since typical homeowners insurance doesn't always cover damage.
4 reasons you might want an open wedding band
Here are a few reasons you might like the open wedding band style:
- Modern, unique design: If you’re looking for something sleek, lightweight, edgy and fashion-forward, open wedding rings offer a subtle yet intriguing design. These bands stand out while still appearing classy.
- Stackability: Traditional wedding bands may not sit flush against an engagement ring when stacking multiple rings, especially if the gemstone setting creates a gap or causes overlap. An open wedding band solves this by offering extra space around the engagement ring's stone, allowing for a more seamless, comfortable stack. This is particularly helpful for low-set engagement rings, where the gemstone sits closer to the finger and may extend slightly beyond the band. An open wedding band allows for a neat fit without interfering with the stone’s position.
- Symbolism: A wedding ring serves as a reminder of love and an indicator to others that the wearer is married. An open wedding band may represent openness in a relationship, the space for growth, or the belief that love should not be confined.
- Customization and creativity: The uncommon design of an open wedding band creates a perfect focal point for dramatically presenting gemstones or additional design elements. As mentioned earlier, some open wedding rings will include gemstones at the end of each side of the gap.
4 functional benefits of wearing an open wedding band
You’ve learned about the design-leaning reasons for choosing an open wedding band. Now here are a few practical and functional benefits that highlight everything open wedding bands have to offer.
Comfort and flexibility: Open wedding bands are a great, comfortable option for long-term wear, especially for those with wider knuckles or fluctuating finger sizes. (Finger size can fluctuate by up to half a size due to temperature changes, activity levels, certain foods and fluid retention. The gap in open wedding ring designs accommodates those fluctuations better than a solid, full-circle ring.) Additionally, the open design of the band helps ensure a flusher fit against an engagement ring, which can prevent clunky or uncomfortable stacking issues.
Easier resizing: Open wedding bands can often be resized more easily than traditional rings because of their less rigid structure, providing more flexibility for adjustments over time. Unlike solid bands, which may require significant alterations or the addition or removal of material, open bands typically involve less reshaping to accommodate changes in size.
Less metal; lighter feel: Looking for that light-and-airy minimalist feel? Open bands may use less material than full bands, resulting in a lighter, more comfortable ring.
More affordable option: While this is not always the case, an open wedding band may come with a slightly smaller price tag, as the open structure may reduce the overall amount of metal used, making it a more budget-friendly choice.
Properly sizing your open wedding band’s gap
The ease of resizing gives open wedding bands a bit more wiggle room for proper sizing. However, it’s important to consider the gap size when purchasing one. This gap size is typically a handful of millimeters wide. Still, a gap that is too large can result in a ring that’s more fragile and vulnerable to damage—and may also result in an uncomfortable fit. On the other hand, if the gap is too small, it may go unnoticed altogether or not allow enough space for your engagement ring's gemstone (if you have one). Talk with your local jeweler to choose the perfect gap size for your open wedding band.
Insure your open wedding bands with Jewelers Mutual
Before you open your wedding gifts and cards and even before you open the dance floor on your wedding day, take time to insure your precious open wedding bands with a personal jewelry insurance policy from Jewelers Mutual. It covers loss, damage and disappearance. You can check your rate by clicking the button below.
