The Journal

The Appeal of Wide Band Gold Rings

The Appeal of Wide Band Gold Rings

Wide gold wedding rings, especially wide yellow gold wedding rings are proving to be a really popular choice for weddings in 2025. We have a few ideas of why, but super keen to hear your thoughts if you're choosing a wider gold band.

Sometimes called a cigar band, the wide gold ring has been popular for a while and we think it will continue to be a great choice. Lots of women and brides have decided not to have a traditional diamond engagement ring or wedding set and would rather have one ring to serve as both wedding band and engagement ring.

A wide band is more solid and practical than a solitaire ring, can be worn during sports without fear of it getting damaged and makes a really solid fashion statement which is interestingly both and classic (not sure how this works, but it's true!)

Cigar bands also work well in a stack if you do decide to go with an engagement ring, so they are super versatile and give you options.

If you're swooning over the wedding of Tania Sarin like we are, this is the style of ring for you. I guess the way it works is that it's a classic style worn in a fresh and unexpected way. I think wide bands have been reserved for mens wedding rings, but it's time to chuck away those gendered norms and decide on our personal style based on what we love, not what we're told to love.

(images via IG @taniasarin)

 

 


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How To Choose Your Wedding Ring Profile

How To Choose Your Wedding Ring Profile

One of the most important decisions you'll need to make when deciding on a wedding ring is whether to choose a rounded ring or a flat wedding band.

Both options have their own unique characteristics and it's essential to understand the differences before making your final choice. We make all of our rings with a custom light comfort fit on the inside that we've spent two decades perfecting. This allows the outside edge to look either rounded or flat, but the inside edge is incredibly comfortable.

What are the advantages of a rounded ring?

A rounded ring,  is designed with a curved exterior profile. This style offers several benefits:

  • Comfort: The rounded exterior provides a comfortable fit, making it ideal for individuals who are not accustomed to wearing rings.
  • Easy Removal: The rounded shape allows for easy removal of the ring, even if your finger swells due to temperature changes or other factors.

What are the advantages of a flat wedding band?

A flat wedding band, also known as a traditional-fit band, features a flat exterior surface. Here are some advantages of this style:

  • Sleek Appearance: The flat design offers a classic and timeless look that appeals to many individuals.
  • Compatibility: Flat wedding bands are often easier to pair with engagement rings or other jewelry due to their simplicity.

How to decide which style is right for you?

Choosing between a rounded ring and a flat wedding band ultimately comes down to personal preference. Consider the following factors to help you make an informed decision:

  • Comfort: If comfort is your top priority, a rounded ring may be the best option for you.
  • Style: Think about your personal style and the overall aesthetic you want to achieve. Do you prefer a sleek and modern look or a more traditional appearance?
  • Compatibility: If you plan to wear your wedding band alongside other rings or jewelry, consider how well each style will complement your existing pieces.
  • Fit: Try on both styles to see which one feels more comfortable and secure on your finger.

Remember, your wedding band is a symbol of your commitment and love, so take the time to choose a style that truly reflects your personality and preferences. Whether you opt for a rounded ring or a flat wedding band, the most important thing is that it feels right for you.

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How To Pick an Engraving and Options Available

How To Pick an Engraving and Options Available

If you already know what you want to say on the inside of your ring, all you need to do is pick one of these fonts when you check out. There will be a box to insert the text as well. If you have no idea what you want to say, skip down below the photo and we'll give you some ideas :)

Examples of the fonts available for inside engraving

 

Choosing an engraving for your wedding ring is a special and personal decision. It's an opportunity to add a unique touch to your ring and make it even more meaningful. But with so many options available, how do you choose the perfect engraving? In this blog post, we'll explore some tips and considerations to help you make the right choice.

1. Reflect on Your Relationship

Start by reflecting on your relationship and what it means to both of you. Think about your shared values, inside jokes, or meaningful moments that you want to commemorate. This will help you come up with ideas for the engraving that truly represent your love and commitment.

2. Keep it Personal

Personalisation is key when choosing an engraving. Consider incorporating your names, initials, or a special date that holds significance to both of you. You could also opt for a short phrase or a meaningful quote that resonates with your relationship.

3. Consider the Ring Design

Take into account the design of your wedding ring when choosing an engraving. Some rings have limited space for engraving, so it's important to choose a message that fits well. If your ring has a textured or intricate design, a simple and elegant engraving may be the best choice to complement the overall look.

4. Think Long-Term

Remember that your wedding ring is a symbol of your love and commitment for years to come. Choose an engraving that will stand the test of time and still hold meaning for you as the years go by. Avoid trendy phrases or references that may lose their significance over time.

5. Consult with Your Partner

Choosing an engraving is a decision that should involve both partners. Take the time to discuss your ideas and preferences with your partner. This will ensure that the engraving is a joint decision and reflects both of your personalities and values.

6. Seek Professional Advice

If you're unsure about what engraving to choose, don't hesitate to seek advice from a professional jeweler. They have experience in helping couples find the perfect engraving and can provide valuable insights and suggestions based on their expertise.

7. Take Your Time

Choosing an engraving is not a decision to be rushed. Take your time to explore different options, gather ideas, and consider all the factors mentioned above. It's a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to add a personal touch to your wedding ring, so make sure you make a choice that you'll cherish forever.

In conclusion, choosing an engraving for your wedding ring is a meaningful and personal decision. By reflecting on your relationship, keeping it personal, considering the ring design, thinking long-term, consulting with your partner, seeking professional advice, and taking your time, you can make a choice that truly represents your love and commitment. Your engraved wedding ring will serve as a constant reminder of the special bond you share with your partner.

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How To Choose Between Polished and Matte Finish

How To Choose Between Polished and Matte Finish

When it comes to selecting a wedding ring, there are many factors to consider. One important decision to make is whether to choose a polished or matte finish. Both options have their own unique characteristics and can greatly impact the overall look and feel of the ring. Ultimately, your ring finish is a starting point, matter rings become more shiny with wear and polished rings more matte. We include a free care kit with every ring so that you can maintain it's original finish. In this blog post, we will explore the differences between polished and matte finishes and provide some guidance on how to choose the right one for you.

What is a polished finish?

A polished finish is characterized by its shiny surface. It is achieved by using a polishing wheel or abrasive compounds to remove any imperfections and create a smooth and lustrous appearance. Polished wedding rings are known for their elegant and timeless look, making them a popular choice for many couples.

What is a matte finish?

A matte finish, on the other hand, has a more subdued and textured appearance. It is achieved by using a special polishing rubber to create a surface that is less reflective and more velvety to the touch. Matte wedding rings have a contemporary and modern feel, offering a unique alternative to the traditional polished finish.

a photo that shows the difference between matte and polished finish wedding rings.Consider your personal style

When deciding between a polished and matte finish, it's important to consider your personal style and preferences. If you tend to gravitate towards classic and timeless designs, a polished finish may be the perfect choice for you. Its shiny and reflective surface will enhance the brilliance of any gemstones and give your ring a luxurious and sophisticated look.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more modern and understated aesthetic, a matte finish might be more suitable. Its textured surface can add depth and dimension to the ring, creating a subtle yet striking effect. Matte finishes are also known for their durability, as they are less prone to showing scratches and wear over time.

Consider your lifestyle

Another important factor to consider is your lifestyle. If you lead an active lifestyle or work with your hands, a matte finish may be a better option. Its textured surface can help to hide any scratches or scuffs that may occur during everyday wear. Additionally, the lack of shine in a matte finish can make it less prone to showing fingerprints and smudges.

On the other hand, if you prefer a more low-maintenance option, a polished finish may be more suitable. While it may show scratches more easily, a polished wedding ring can be easily restored to its original shine with a simple polishing cloth. It's important to note that regular maintenance is required to keep a polished finish looking its best.

Consider your partner's preferences

Lastly, it's important to consider your partner's preferences when choosing between a polished and matte finish. If you are selecting a matching set of wedding rings, it's important to choose a finish that both of you will love and feel comfortable wearing. Communication is key, so be sure to discuss your options and make a decision together.

In conclusion, choosing between a polished and matte finish wedding ring ultimately comes down to personal style, lifestyle, and preferences. Whether you opt for the timeless elegance of a polished finish or the modern allure of a matte finish, the most important thing is to choose a ring that reflects your unique love and commitment.

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How To Decide The Width of your Wedding Ring

How To Decide The Width of your Wedding Ring

Choosing a wedding ring is an important decision that will last a lifetime. One factor to consider is the width of the ring. The width can greatly impact the overall look and feel of the ring on your finger. But how do you decide which width is right for you? In this blog post, we will explore some factors to consider when choosing the width of your wedding ring.

What is the standard width for a wedding ring?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The standard width for a wedding ring can vary depending on personal preference and style. However, the most common widths for men's wedding rings range from 6mm to 8mm, while women's wedding rings typically range from 2mm to 4mm. However, we don't think gender is a binary and we think any person in any body can wear any width wedding ring.

Consider your finger size

One important factor to consider when choosing the width of your wedding ring is your finger size. If you have smaller hands or fingers, a narrower width may be more flattering and comfortable. On the other hand, if you have larger hands or fingers, a wider width may be more proportionate and visually appealing.

Think about your personal style

Your personal style and taste should also play a role in determining the width of your wedding ring. If you prefer a more delicate and understated look, a narrower width may be the way to go. On the other hand, if you want to make a bold statement and showcase your ring, a wider width can provide a more substantial and eye-catching appearance.

Consider the design of the ring

The design of the ring can also influence the width that is most suitable. If you are considering a ring with intricate details or gemstones, a narrower width may be better to ensure that the design is properly showcased. On the other hand, if you prefer a more minimalist and modern design, a wider width can provide a sleek and contemporary look.

Try on different widths

Ultimately, the best way to decide on the width of your wedding ring is to try on different options. Visit a jewelry store and try on rings of various widths to see how they look and feel on your finger. This will give you a better sense of what width suits you best and feels the most comfortable. This printable ring sizer has paper strips in all of our ring widths that you can cut out to see how they look on your finger https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0036/0513/5458/files/GG_printable_ring_sizer.pdf?v=1614336873

Remember, there are no rules!

When it comes to choosing the width of your wedding ring, it's important to remember that there are no hard and fast rules. The most important thing is to choose a width that you love and feel confident wearing. Whether you prefer a narrow band or a wide statement piece, the choice is ultimately yours. Trust your instincts and select a width that reflects your personal style and makes you happy.

In conclusion, choosing the width of your wedding ring is a personal decision that should take into account factors such as finger size, personal style, and the design of the ring. By considering these factors and trying on different widths, you can find the perfect width that suits you and complements your overall look. Remember, there are no rules when it comes to choosing your wedding ring width, so trust your instincts and choose a width that makes you feel beautiful and confident on your special day.

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How to avoid Russian conflict gold

How to avoid Russian conflict gold

Unfortunately, the supply chain of gold in the jewellery industry is, in general, very opaque. 

When it comes to the gold used to create your ring it really does matter where it comes from. The mining process varies greatly in how destructive it is to both the environment and human rights around the world.

We've spent the last 15 years researching, reading, visiting mines, and connecting with experts so we can feel confident that what we're using to make our ethical wedding rings is truly Good Gold. This isn't the case for all jewellery outlets.

If you're looking to avoid Russian conflict gold then buying locally-made and avoiding imported jewellery is the way to go. Chain jewellery stores often have pieces that have been made overseas and are usually unable to trace the origins of the gold.

To be confident in your purchase, the best option is to work with a jeweller who produces locally and can tell you the exact origin of the gold they use. If you're looking to make an ethical choice in not just what country the gold comes from but how it is produced, they should also be able to tell you how the gold has been mined. Two common examples being traditional hard rock mining and alluvial gold mining.

Hard rock mining requires human intervention to extract the gold from the earth whilst alluvial gold mining is a gentler process where water and time does the hard work of getting the gold out of the rock. You can read more about what ethical gold means in this blog post. 

Ash recently chatted to Stuff news about the best way to avoid inadvertently buying jewellery made from Russian gold and ensuring your wedding ring has a good beginning, you can read the full article here.

We believe it's well past time there was a gold-tracing system established. The origins of the gold used to create jewellery need to be transparent. Hopefully with continued pressure from consumers making a conscious effort to purchase ethical jewellery this aspiration will become a reality.

Read more about our ethical New Zealand gold here. 

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Beyond Ethical Gold

Beyond Ethical Gold
Making the world's most ethical wedding ring involves more than just the materials we use.

OFFICE

At Good Gold we reduce our environmental footprint wherever possible. All our packaging is made from recycled material that can be reused or recycled and printed with eco-friendly inks.


WORKSHOP

Good Gold uses citric acid for our pickling solution so there are no chemicals washed down the drains. Our jewellers make their own sanding sticks instead of buying readymade throw away ones. Every bit of dust and filings get sent back to our metal supplier to be reused.


PEOPLE

Good Gold is a certified living wage employer. We live in New Zealand, so all workers get at least four weeks of paid holidays every year, sick leave and 22 weeks paid parental leave.


BUSINESS

Good Gold is in the process of becoming a B-Corp business which has given us so much inspiration for ways we can improve.


GIVINGBACK

We donate a percentage of our profits to The Toolbox Initiative, an organisation that supports jewellers in West Africa that don't have access to tools, supplies and metals. 

From the Toolbox Initiative Website:

"A jeweller in West Africa will typically own a hammer, pliers or tweezers and a few other odds and ends that they keep in a handmade toolbox. They must rely on their ingenuity because commercial tools are rarely available. The Toolbox Initiative aims to address this imbalance. We hope that this exchange forges important connections and deepens the bond between jewellers everywhere."


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Why you should know your gold

Why you should know your gold

As the saying goes, all that glitters is not gold. Over 97% of the gold used in commercial jewellery comes from exploitative mining practices.

Unfortunately, in general, the jewellery industry is very opaque when it comes to disclosing where gold comes from. Because it's not widely publicised many consumers are unaware of this important factor when making their purchase.

We've put together just a few reasons why you should question where the gold for your ring has come from, so you can make an informed decision that aligns with your values when purchasing a ring that will represent your union. 

Ethical concerns

Knowing the origin of your gold can ensure it was ethically sourced and produced without exploiting workers, displacing communities, or harming the environment.

Environmental impact

Gold mining can have significant environmental impacts, the average gold wedding ring creates 10 TONNES of mining waste.

Personal values

If you value sustainability and ethical practices, knowing the source of your gold can help you make a more informed choice for your wedding ring.

Future impact

Choosing to support ethical gold mining practices can have a positive impact on the future of the industry.

Personal connection

Knowing the source of your gold can provide a personal connection to the material and the story behind it.

 

Find out about where our ethical gold comes from here and click the image below to view our full range of Good Gold wedding rings.

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Quick Turnaround

Quick Turnaround

Buying your wedding ring can feel like a daunting task especially if you're short of time. Whether you've been putting the task off to the eleventh hour or have just made last minute plans, we're here to help make sure you have a ring for your special day!

Our usual turnaround time is 1-2 week to make your order plus shipping but if you are in a rush we can almost always accomodate a quicker timeframe.

If you're in need of a quick turnaround time here are some tips to help you get your order placed ASAP. 

Figure out your ring size

If you don't have time to order one of our free ring sizers there are some tips in our in-depth sizing guide for getting your ring size in other ways.

Decide on your ring shape and width

You can choose from either our Rounded or Flat ring profiles and our width options range from WideMedium to Narrow.

Choose your gold colour and finish

We work in 9ct, 14ct and 18ct White goldYellow GoldRose Gold. If you’d like to know which metal to pick for your wedding ring, this blog post explains it all.

You can choose either a matte or polished finish. It’s important to note that these finishes are starting points. Matte rings become more shiny and polished rings become more matte with wear. All rings come with a care kit that you can use to bring back your original finish.

 What to do next

Now you that you know exactly what you are after it's time to place your order. If you require a quicker turn around time than our standard 1-2 weeks + shipping then send us an email to hello@goodgold.nz letting us know the following details:

  • The date you need the ring(s) by.
  • Your shipping address.
  • The details of your order (ring size, width, shape & gold choice).

We'll get back to you right away and let you know exactly how soon your order could ship. 

Shipping

Once your order has been made we hand it over to our trusted postal services for delivery.

For shipping within NZ we use overnight Courier Post which has a delivery target of 1-2 working days.

For international ring orders we use DHL Express which has a delivery target of 3-5 working days.

Import duties and custom charges

If you live in the United States, New Zealand or Australia, you won’t be charged any import fees.

If you live in the European Union you will most likely be charged VAT. For other countries, the laws vary. To make sure your order gets to you as soon as possible it's important to pay requested fees right away. Usually, DHL will be in touch to collect any required fees. 

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Wedding Bands: A Guide for the Groom

Wedding Bands: A Guide for the Groom
Choosing your wedding ring can feel like a big task in amongst the endless to-do list of planning a wedding. 

Getting your wedding ring in time

It’s smart to select and purchase your wedding ring three months out from the big day to make sure you have enough time to find out your size, select your ring, to try it on and make sure you can get resizing done if necessary.

Making sure your wedding ring is the right size

Our ring sizer is the easiest way to work out exactly how big your wedding ring needs to be. It’s made of recycled eskaboard, made from 100% recycled paper. Just order one from us and we’ll send it to you for free. Instructions on how to pick the right size are printed on it, so it’s really easy to make sure you’re getting the right size ring.

Choosing your wedding ring

Choosing your wedding band can be overwhelming. Men’s gold wedding rings vary in style, thickness, metal and engraving. When it comes to making decisions around which wedding rings you’d like to wear for the rest of your life, it’s important to do what feels right for you.

We’ve seen many trends in men’s wedding bands come and go, from titanium or oxidised silver wedding rings, to black tungsten and even wooden wedding rings. At Good Gold, we make our gold rings from ethical white, yellow or rose gold. from there, it’s easy work out what thickness and engraving details will make your wedding band your own.

In 2018, Brad Falchuk chose a minimal thin band to match his partner Gwyneth Paltrow’s. More and more couples are choosing a simple, matching pair of wedding bands for their ceremony. The simplicity of our design means they can match nearly any engagement ring. We can adjust the width and polish finish to suit. We don’t denote men’s or women’s wedding rings: Good Gold wedding bands are for everyone. This classic look never dates, perfect for the rest of your lives together.

Making sure your ring will last

You’ll need to think about the sort of work you do - are you working with your hands a lot? If you have a physical, labour-intensive job it makes sense to choose a ring made from a strong metal that can withstand being knocked around. For example, yellow gold is less durable than rose gold or white gold due to it being a softer metal. If you don’t want it to dent or scratch, you may want to opt for rose gold or white gold if you have a physical job.

Shipping and Resizing

After you have decided which gold wedding band you want and ordered it, we’ll make it exactly to your specifications in our studio. This takes from 1-2 weeks. If you’re in a rush, just get in touch with us and we will try to accomodate you.

Shipping is usually overnight if you live in New Zealand, and can take up to a week if you live internationally. If you’ve left it a bit late and are in a hurry, select expedited shipping and it will arrive within 3-5 days.

When it arrives, try it on and make sure it fits. Your wedding ring should go over your knuckle and fit comfortably, but not move around too much. If you think you’ve got the wrong size, we’ll resize it for you for free. After your first resize, additional resizing is $30USD.  

On the wedding day

Whatever you do, don’t forget the rings!

You could send your partner a gift on the morning of the wedding to let them know you’re thinking of them - and make sure you get some time together after the ceremony and before the reception to just hang out, the two of you.

Breathe. You’ve got this!

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