Stacking Bands & Mixing Metals: What Are the Rules?

People have been stacking engagement rings with wedding bands for a long time — traditionally on the fourth finger of the left hand. The origins of this tradition are a little muddled, though it’s widely believed it stemmed from ancient Egypt. Egyptians believed that the fourth finger of the left hand had a vein that connected directly to the heart. Romantic, but not anatomically correct — this vein doesn’t actually exist. Nevertheless, this tradition continues to this day, with the wedding band typically going on the finger first. 
Stacking non-wedding jewelry has become quite popular in recent years, and many wonder about the “rules” for stacking bands and mixing metals. We’ve got good news — there are no rules! We do have a few suggestions, though, on how to stack your bands and mix metals like a pro.

Stacking Bands

Keep it Simple

If you’re just starting to experiment with this trend, it might be a good idea to start with simple pieces. Try selecting a few delicate bands with similar characteristics to see how they look. (You might also need some time to get used to the sensation of having multiple rings on one finger, or several rings on each finger!)

When taking a simple approach to ring stacking, you can either try a few thin bands on top of one another or spread a few rings across multiple fingers.

… Or Go Bold!

If you’re more the type to dive head-first into a trend, we say go for it! We love the look of bold pieces mixed with more delicate ones… or nothing BUT bold statement rings! When it comes to wearing your rings stacked like this, the only limit is your imagination.

Mix it Up

Another thing to try when stacking rings is mixing up colors and eye-catching shapes. Don’t be afraid to slip bright baubles on your fingers to really make a statement! Try surrounding a large gem with a distinct shape with smaller, more subtle rings for a unique, interesting arrangement.

Mixing Metals

When it comes to mixing metals, just like stacking bands, there aren’t any rules! Once upon a time it may have been a fashion no-no to mix white and yellow gold, or rose gold with platinum, but those days are gone. Mix what you want, when you want! You can even buy a mixed metal ring to make it a little easier. Just make sure that you protect your rings when you aren’t wearing them by properly storing them — prolonged metal-mixing in storage can sometimes lead to tarnishing and other damage.

And don’t forget, stacking bands and mixing metals isn’t just something for the ladies. Guys can have fun with this jewelry trend, too! Grab your favorite statement pieces — all of them, if you’d like — and stack them on your fingers for an ultra-cool look.

No matter how you choose to stack and mix, Zillion’s got you covered with outstanding jewelry insurance policies that’ll protect ALL the rings on your fingers! Visit our homepage for a free quote, and happy stacking!

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Zillion partners with jewelers to offer their customers lower rates on jewelry insurance. If you don’t see your jeweler on our list, we’re sorry, we won’t be able to offer you a quote for insurance. If you purchased from a Preferred Jewelers International retailer please email us at partners@myzillion.com and let us know the name of the retailer. Thank you.