Wedding rings might be small, yet they’re full of weight and emotion. The couples we meet who choose to design their rings from scratch, do it for one simple reason: they want the ring to say something personal. They want it to reflect their relationship, their values and the story that binds them. 

At BWR London, symbolism sits at the heart of many designs and it has grown into one of the most rewarding parts of the job. When couples choose a bespoke ring, they are choosing a more meaningful piece of jewellery. Every detail can hold a message.

Below are some of the ways couples bring symbolism into their custom wedding rings and the ideas that inspire them.

Why Symbolism Matters in a Wedding Ring

Your wedding ring is worn every day. It becomes a companion through celebrations, challenges and changes. For many people it is the one item they will keep close for life. 

Couples often tell the team at BWR London that they want their rings to hold meaning because it helps the ring feel truly theirs. Rather than choosing a design from a high street cabinet, they want something that speaks to their relationship. It can be a reminder of the first place they met, a shared passion or a commitment they have made to one another. 

Symbolism creates a deeper connection to the piece and often sparks conversations for years to come.

Engravings with Personal Messages

Engravings remain one of the most popular forms of symbolism. They are discreet, intimate and endlessly creative. Couples often ask to include:

• Dates that hold significance, such as the day they met or the date of the proposal
• Nicknames or private phrases that only the two of them understand
• Coordinates of important locations, such as the spot where they got engaged
• Short promises or values that guide their relationship

Many couples choose inner band engravings which are more private, while others prefer to place a detail on the outside of the band. The beauty of a bespoke service is that everything is possible.  Names, dates, numbers, messages, images, symbols, finger prints, soundwaves, heartbeats, emoji’s, languages, music, birthstones and handwriting,  the engraving becomes a special connection that lives inside the ring.

Symbolic Gemstones and Their Meanings

Gemstones bring colour, personality and symbolism all at once. Many couples we collaborate with in London choose stones that represent traits or moments within their relationship. Popular examples include:

Sapphires

A symbol of loyalty and honesty, chosen to represent strength and commitment. Sapphires also come in a variety of colours, which helps couples choose a shade that feels personal.

Emeralds

Often linked to fresh starts, growth and harmony. They are chosen by couples who feel their relationship has transformed their lives or who value calm and balance.

Rubies

Long associated with love and passion. Rubies carry a strong emotional message and pair beautifully with yellow or rose gold for a warm, romantic look.

Birthstones

Some couples choose each other’s birthstones or the birthstones of children. This becomes a meaningful way to blend lives within a single design.

Lab grown diamonds

Chosen not only for beauty but for ethical reasons. Many couples find that the values behind the stone are just as symbolic as the stone itself.

The choice of gemstone can set the tone of the entire design and becomes one of the strongest symbolic elements in a bespoke ring.

Mixed Metals to Represent Two Lives Joining

Mixed metal designs have become a growing trend. They offer both style and symbolism. A ring that combines metals can represent two lives joining or two personalities coming together. For example:

• A platinum band with a rose gold interior
• Yellow gold bands with white gold edges
• Braided designs that weave metals in a subtle pattern

Some couples choose metals that match their engagement rings, while others choose combinations that reflect contrast and unity. The visual blend speaks for itself and gives the design a modern yet meaningful feel.

Shapes and Design Motifs with Hidden Meaning

Shape plays a quiet but powerful role. Even a small design choice can say something personal. Some popular motifs include:

Infinity symbols

A direct representation of commitment and continuity.

Waves and curves

Chosen by couples who feel their relationship has been shaped by movement, travel or growth.

Geometric shapes

Triangles for strength, squares for stability, circles for wholeness. Simple shapes can carry strong ideas.

Floral or nature inspired patterns

For couples who connect through nature or shared memories in the great outdoors. 

These motifs often sit subtly on the band, woven into engravings or set alongside gemstones for balance.

Telling Your Story Through a Bespoke Ring

The most powerful symbolism comes from the story behind the design. At BWR London, our team encourages couples to talk about their journey, their memories and what matters to them. Every conversation brings out details that can shape the final piece.

For more information on our custom wedding rings, simply get in touch today.