Curved Wedding Bands

The depth of the curve decides which engagement rings the band will hug.

• Soft arc: a low, rounded dip that hugs round and oval heads.
• Chevron or V: a pointed notch that cradles a pear, marquise or a raised head.
• Wave: an asymmetric curve that slides around one side of the center.

Most designs use pavé or shared prongs for a continuous line of light, and a few use channel settings that tuck the stones between two metal walls. Total weights on most bands run from 0.25 to 0.5 carat total weight, enough for a bright edge without overpowering the center beside it.

Each band comes in rose, yellow or white gold in 10K, 14K or 18K, in platinum, and in Silvadium, a sterling silver made to resist tarnish. Matching the engagement ring's metal blends the two into a single piece; a contrast metal turns the curve into a visible accent.

Hold the curve against your engagement ring before ordering: the gap should close without the two rings forcing each other apart. Worn alone, a contour band looks sculptural on the finger. Metal rubbing on metal wears both rings slowly, so clean them together and look over the stone edges every few months.