Long ago I was a bride, looking for just the right ring for the man I was going to marry. I knew I wanted both of us to have a ring. I knew he was ok with the idea, though perhaps not as enthusiastic as I would have liked. I also knew, from growing up with a brother, the ring I picked for him would have to be plainer, less romantic and sturdier than the ring he was picking out for me.

So I had a general idea in mind as I went ring shopping. I went by myself. I could have taken spectators but I liked being out there and doing this romantic and happy thing with just my own thoughts and opinions. (I did get a ride to the store with my Mom and she was the first person to see the ring I picked out).

I Especially Like this Claddagh Ring for a Bridegroom

It was not this Claddagh ring which I noticed on Amazon today. I would have picked this one if I had seen it. I think it’s about as perfect as I would have liked at the time. I like the tradition and history being the Irish/ Celtic symbol of the Claddagh. I think my husband would have liked it too. Plus, it fits with the plan of sturdy, plain and simple. A fairly thick band without much sticking up in odd places and nothing that will possibly fall off and be lost.

I was happy with the ring I did pick for him. It was a plain gold band with small (tiny you might call them) diamonds in a row on the front of the band. It was also sturdy, simple and plain. He still has it.

Other choices for men's wedding rings or wedding bands.

There are far more options than a plain gold band.

Consider different metals versus the standard gold. Wedding bands can be far more durable than gold these days. A man who works with his hands would be better with a ring made from harder metals which are also less pricey than gold, silver or platinum (as a side benefit).

Consider how flashy he is versus comfortable and everyday casual. Will he like a ring with extras like engraving, diamonds or designs. If he tends to be plain, traditional or if his career expects him to look a certain way (reliable or trendy and fashionable) that is something to work around.

Don't forget this is something he will wear for a long time, every day. Get the ring sized right. Or, make sure it can be returned to be resized. (This is a good thing down the road as we don't always keep the same ring size we had when we were 20, or 30).

If you know the ring is "the one" get it inscribed inside the band. It may be a bit corny and old fashioned, but some traditions are worth keeping. Even if he isn't the type to appreciate a romantic gesture, most men will still like that you thought of it.