When shopping for men's rings, you are certain to encounter certain key phrases and industry specific terms time and time again. While some of these phrases may be self-explanatory, others can leave first time jewelry buyers scratching their heads. To help you with your shopping needs and questions, here is a quick glossary of men?‚EUR(TM)s rings terms.
Material. Nearly every shopper knows what material refers to in men's rings: what the band itself is made from. However, there are some additional industry specific terms that may cause a little confusion. For example, some rings belong to the contemporary materials category, but what are contemporary materials in jewelry?This category of men?‚EUR(TM)s rings offers an alternative to precious metals like gold and platinum, and contains materials like titanium, ceramic, cobalt chrome and tungsten. These materials are more recent additions to the rings market (hence the name), and generally offer lower price points and increased durability.Finish. The finish of men?‚EUR(TM)s rings refers to their surface treatment and appearance. Some of the most common types of finishes seen in men?‚EUR(TM)s rings include brushed, satin and polished. Somewhat more unusual finishes that are still incredibly popular in the rings market are wired, hammered and sand-blasted finishes.
Fit. Modern rings can be divided into two camps when it comes to the interior fit of their bands: traditional fit and comfort fit. Traditional fit is an older type of interior that is somewhat more squared off in shape. Comfort fit men?‚EUR(TM)s rings use additional material on the interior for a more rounded fit that takes pressure off of the finger.
Profile. While fit addresses the interior of rings, profile addresses their exteriors. Men?‚EUR(TM)s rings are often seen in domed and flat profiles. Domed profiles have a slightly rounded shape, and are considered to be more of a traditional look. Flat profiles offer a contemporary alternative, and have a flatter surface, usually paired with squared off edges.
Setting. Setting is usually specific to men's rings with diamonds or other gemstones, and refers to the manner in which the stones are placed and held by the band. The most common types of stone settings used in men?‚EUR(TM)s rings include bezel, channel, burnish, bead and prong, and can greatly influence the overall style of the band.
Inlay. Inlay in men's rings rings is an additional material or design set into the band (usually in the center), made to be flush with the remainder of the ring. Men's rings can be inlaid with nearly anything, with some of the most popular types of inlays being made from carbon fiber, wood and shell, as well as standard rings materials like gold or ceramic.Edges. Another seemingly obvious term, there is actually a great variation found in the edge styles of rings. Rounded edges are often the norm for rings, though squared edges can be found in many contemporary styles. Beveled edges, which offer a downward sloping shape, are another popular choice and an excellent subtle design detail for men's rings. More unusual types of edges include rivet coin and gear cut edges, both of which offer an industrial and very modern look.