Your engagement ring is comfortable, but a straight wedding band leaves a gap beneath the diamond? This is common with a low setting: the basket supporting the stone sometimes occupies the space where the band would sit. The right solution depends on how both pieces are built, not just how they look in a photo. Three options are generally worth trying: a straight band with an intentional gap, a curved band that follows the setting or an open band. The goal is a comfortable pairing without damaging contact.
Before choosing, look at your ring from the side. Does the basket extend almost all the way down to your finger? Do prongs or small diamonds protrude along the sides? A ring that looks easy to pair from above may block a wedding band at its base. Take 2 clear photos, one from the side and one from above, to prepare for a consultation. They provide a starting point, but trying bands with the actual ring is preferable: it lets you check dimensions, movement and contact points that photos do not reveal.
A straight wedding band remains a valid option, even if the two rings do not sit flush all the way around. A small gap can create a balanced look and allow you to wear each piece separately. Compare widths of 2 mm and 3 mm, for example, to see how they change the proportions on your hand. These are starting points for trying bands on, not ideal measurements for everyone. Above all, check that the band's edge does not knock against the basket or rub against the prongs when the rings rotate.
A curved wedding band, sometimes called a contour band, follows the outline of the engagement ring. A gentle curve may suit a rounded basket, while a V-shaped style may complement a pear or marquise stone, depending on its setting. Keep in mind that two rings with similar shapes are not automatically compatible. The depth of the curve and the thickness of the rings matter too. Try the band in both orientations, then on its own. This helps you decide whether you like its everyday appearance as much as the way it frames your diamond.
An open wedding band has a gap that can leave room for the centre setting. It may be worth considering when a straight band will not fit and a pronounced curve does not appeal to you. However, its ends need to be positioned properly: they should neither press against prongs nor constantly catch on clothing. The opening should be fitted to the existing ring rather than chosen from a photo alone. Also ask how this construction affects durability and resizing possibilities; the answers depend on the design.
Choosing the same gold colour and karat creates visual continuity, but it does not guarantee that there will be no wear. Two rings move against each other, even when they are well matched. Diamonds exposed along the side of a wedding band can, in particular, abrade the neighbouring metal. Before deciding, have 3 areas checked: the engagement ring's prongs, the sides of its basket and the wedding band's inward-facing edge. If problematic contact occurs, a different shape may be preferable to automatically adding a third ring as a spacer.
Bring your engagement ring to the fitting and keep both rings on your finger for about 10 to 15 minutes, if possible. Close your hand, pick up your phone and check whether the rings pinch your skin or rotate excessively. Two rings together cover more width than one and may feel tighter. Avoid automatically ordering the same size without checking comfort first. Also ask for the total price including taxes and the exchange terms, particularly if you are considering an engraved or custom-made wedding band.
If you are choosing both rings at the same time, consider asking the AUCLAIRE workshop for guidance: three engagement ring options with a GIA- or IGI-certified centre diamond, each paired with a compatible wedding band suggestion, offer a practical starting point. If you already own your ring, bring it along to guide the pairing. This family-owned Montreal jewellery house provides a 3D rendering before production, with manufacturing taking 3 to 4 weeks in Montreal. Every piece comes with an AUCLAIRE certificate of authenticity, separate from the centre diamond's gemological report.
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