The Cost Of Things: Putting A Ring On It, Man-Style

Whereas women get to — and, sometimes, are expected to — wear all sorts of jewelry, wedding rings are one of the few ornaments men and male-identified people often feel comfortable wearing. Luckily, the options for so-called “men’s” rings have broadened well beyond “14K gold band bought in haste from the corner store.” (Not that there’s anything wrong with that.)

Looking for an interesting wedding band, fellas, or even perhaps an engagement ring, since an increasing number of guys are slipping one on to show their commitment? Your choices seem to be endless.

But how much will a “man’s” or gender non-normative ring set you back?

SILICONE

Everything fun in the kitchen or the bedroom is made of silicone; why not the wedding ring too? We know it’s durable. Get a Qalo one in red and it’s extra festive! $20.

STERLING SILVER

This Individual Icons ring is made to look like dice! As in, “I’m rolling the dice on you, baby!” So romantic. $88.

BLACKENED COBALT

This “hammered finish” ring from Blue Nile looks like it could withstand the fires of Mordor. $150.

TUNGSTEN

Wood makes a classy inlay, doesn’t it? Plus it’ll match the humidor in the man-cave. This Fairbanks ring is on sale for $160.

STAINLESS STEEL

Here’s a relatively simple, handsome stainless steel band from Teno “with Circulating Sterling Silver Inlay and Black Ceramic Inlay” on sale for $185.

TITANIUM

The description of this StagHead Designs ring on Etsy says, “Antler is organic!” For the partner who likes to know you can shoot, dress, and make dinner. $240.

This Jewelry By Johan ring includes an inlay of meteorite. Because your partner makes you starry eyed? Presumably the meteorite is also organic. $344.

Called the “American Man,” this Minter + Richter ring does not suffer from a lack of confidence. Also it comes with horn inlay, so you’re paying for the privilege of making a “Do I make you horny?” joke. $400.

PLATINUM

Because you’re not [bleep]ing around. Ritani, $2,305.

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As I believe I’ve mentioned, both my wedding ring and Ben’s came from family, a collection begun by my Great Uncle Jack, who ran a pawn shop in Santa Fe. If I could do it all again, though, I’d definitely get him a black Zirconium band with a barbed-wire design ($375), because, as the saying goes, if you love something, don’t ever, ever set it free; lock it up in Max.

This story is part of our Wedding Season series.

Image of amazing Mario engagement set via Random Tuesdays

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