Wedding rings in Switzerland

Simple gold wedding rings start at around CHF 1,200 a pair, and many cost up to CHF 2,500. Silver or stainless steel is cheaper, from around CHF 500. With diamonds or in platinum, you will quickly pass CHF 4,000.

The price depends on the gold price, the width and weight, the stones and the handwork. A simple engraving usually costs CHF 40 to 80 and is often included. To see how the rings fit into your overall budget, read How much does a wedding cost in Switzerland?.

• Yellow gold: the classic, with a warm tone. In Switzerland, 18 carat is usual for gold, in other words 750 gold.
• White gold: bright and understated. It is often rhodium-plated, and the coating can be renewed over the years.
• Rose gold: warm and reddish thanks to its copper content.
• Platinum: heavy, very durable and more expensive than gold.
• Silver: inexpensive, but softer and less robust for everyday wear.

At a jeweller's you try on finished collections and see straight away what you like. A goldsmith makes rings to your wishes and can also rework old gold or an heirloom. Some workshops run courses in which you forge your rings yourselves.

• Ring size: it is best to have it measured in the shop. At home, you can measure your finger with a strip of paper, but allow for a little tolerance.
• Everyday wear: try the rings on. Wide rings sit tighter, and if you work a lot with your hands, choose a robust material.
• Engraving: decide early on what it should say and ask how long it takes.
• Changes: ask whether the rings can be resized later and what polishing costs.
• Consultation: many take more time for you with an appointment. Book one rather than dropping in on a Saturday.

Start looking four to five months before the wedding. A custom ring takes several weeks, plus consultation and fitting. Workshops are busier before the summer season, so it is better to enquire a little earlier. For everything else, see the wedding planning checklist.

Filter the list above by canton to see who is based near you. The consultation usually takes place in the shop, so a nearby workshop saves you journeys. Are you a goldsmith or jeweller? List your business for free and choose "Wedding and engagement rings".