Most people associate the color black with either mourning or high fashion. However, this dark, mysterious color has more going for it. For instance, did you know that black also represents power, elegance, status, and rebellion? Or that its association with authority makes us feel secure and protected?
Given these positive connotations, it makes sense that many grooms opt to wear a black suit or tux to their wedding — but what about a black wedding ring? It might strike you as odd or morbid at first blush, but if you’re shopping for wedding bands, hear us out. Black wedding rings are rich in symbolism, attractive, and affordable, and that’s just the start.
Keep reading to learn more about what black wedding rings mean, what makes men choose them, and which materials and metals they’re made from.
Black rings don’t have a singular meaning attached to them, so you can pick the meaning that most resonates with you. Here are some of the most common meanings attached to black wedding rings.
In ancient times, the Greeks made versions of black wedding bands by shaping a variety of quartz called black onyx into rings. These pieces symbolized power, courage, and strength. Similarly, Roman warriors were known to carry black onyx carvings, believing they offered protection.
Beyond these more historical explanations, lots of men associate the color black with power, status, masculinity, and sophistication.
Expanding on the ideas of courage, strength, and power, a black ring can also represent a couple’s undying commitment to their marriage. That’s especially true in cases where the couple faces dissenting opinions about their union from friends or family members.
Beyond historical meaning, many wearers choose black wedding rings for other reasons. For example, they might choose a black wedding ring due to…
A black wedding band can be made from more than half a dozen different materials. Here’s a quick rundown of some of the most popular materials for making black wedding rings, including each option’s pros and cons.
Scratch-resistant and durable, tungsten or tungsten carbide (tungsten mixed with carbon) is the most popular metal for black rings. Unfortunately, they’re prone to breakage and are heavier than other metals.
Hard and lightweight, ceramic rings are scratch-resistant. Additionally, they won’t corrode or tarnish. However, they may break if knocked against a harder surface.
This metal is lightweight, hypoallergenic, and scratch-resistant. Usually, though, they’re coated with black plating, meaning they may chip over time.
Lightweight, nickel-free, and corrosion-resistant, this metal is incredibly sleek. Just be careful not to knock it on hard surfaces, or you might scratch or chip it.
Carbon rings are twelve times lighter than gold. At the same time, they’re durable and hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, carbon rings are very difficult to resize, which is something to consider for the future.
Flexible, affordable, and low maintenance, black silicone rings make a good wedding ring stand-in if you work a manual labor job. Silicone rings have a certain style that’s not for everyone, though.
Regular stainless steel is anodized to create a stylish black variant for rings. While affordable, this metal is prone to scratching and won’t hold up well over the years.
Black gold is white gold electroplated with black rhodium. These rings are stylish and can be repaired if necessary, but they don’t come cheap.
For wow factor, opt for a pavé setting filled with black diamonds or inset diamonds into a black band. This option is expensive but worth it for a truly unique look.
Many years ago, people would select a wedding ring for their partner and then surprise them on the wedding day. While some couples may still choose to keep their wedding bands a secret until the big day, most modern couples either discuss what they want or pick out their wedding bands together.
Traditionally, the bride’s family would pay for the groom’s wedding ring and vice versa. Today, though, you and your partner are free to make your own buying decisions.
Cleaning techniques will differ depending on the ring’s material. For example, black silicone rings are low-maintenance and can be cleaned in the dishwasher. Others, like black zirconium and onyx rings, require more care.
A black ring made from durable materials like silicone, tungsten, or ceramic won’t fade. However, plated varieties like black titanium, black zirconium, or black gold may lose color over time or if exposed to harsh chemicals or damage.
There are a few reasons why a man might wear a black ring on his right ring finger. He could be from a country where wearing a wedding ring on the right hand is typical (Germany, Spain, or Norway, for example). Alternatively, he might wear it to symbolize a commitment to friends or family. A person wearing a black ring on their middle finger might identify as asexual.
With their elegance, simplicity, and powerful symbolism, black rings are an incredible option for romantic, fashion-forward grooms. With that said, they do come with some downsides. For one, they’re not nearly as timeless as gold or silver rings. They’re trendy now, but they might look dated in a few years. Also, many black rings cannot be resized, meaning you’ll have to buy a new ring if you gain or lose weight in the future. Cons aside, though, we say go for it if you like the look of a black ring.
Need more expert style tips ahead of the wedding? Check out our guide to picking the perfect wedding outfit.
