Gold

A classic choice, the cost of gold depends on the proportion of the precious metal present: 24kt gold is pure but 10, 14, or 18kt are more common for men’s bands. Colour, or rather lack of it, impacts on price: white gold attracts a premium over yellow or rose gold. Hardness is something every man values: in jewellery speak, hardness equals a metal’s strength and durability. Gold scores well on this front (regardless of colour), so it’s unlikely to lose its shape over time but it can scratch.

Gold rings can also be resized without too much trauma.