When it comes to wedding rings, some couples opt for a more unique look with what are known as ghetto wedding rings.
Here is what you need to know about ghetto wedding rings:
Ghetto wedding rings are typically quite large and often have a garish or tacky appearance. They are usually made from cheap materials like plastic or stainless steel. Some couples prefer the look of a ghetto wedding ring. Others like them because they are more affordable than traditional rings.
Keep reading to learn the different types of ghetto rings, why guys buy them, and how to avoid receiving them from your man.
What Are Ghetto Wedding Rings?
Ghetto wedding rings are the antithesis of understated elegance. They are tacky, big, garish, and fake-looking, with none of the subtlety or refinement that characterizes traditional wedding rings.
Ghetto wedding bands look:
- Tacky – Ghetto rings are those blingy, over-the-top rings that just scream “look at me!” They’re often gaudy and overstated, and can range from the mildly tacky to the down-right gaudy. Tacky rings often have large, flashy stones set in them, and might be encrusted with smaller stones.
- Huge – Ghetto wedding bands are huge. They are often so large that they are impossible to wear with other rings. They are difficult to wear and swallow up your hand.
- Fake – They are made from cheap materials and their stones are often fake or lower quality than those found in more expensive pieces of jewelry.
- Ornate – They are often covered in fake diamonds or other gemstones, and their designs are often gaudy and ostentatious.
- Cheap – They look like the toy rings you used to get from those glass dispensers at grocery stores or restaurants. Drop in a quarter or two, twist the handle, and out drops a Ghetto toy ring encased in a transparent plastic egg.
Types of Ghetto Wedding Rings
There are several different types of wedding rings considered “ghetto.”
Here are the most common types of ghetto rings you’ll come across before, during, and after weddings.
The Liberace
This ring is so over-the-top that it’s embarrassing. It’s usually huge and gaudy, with lots of glitter and bling. If you want to look like a Las Vegas showgirl, this is the ring for you.
It is usually quite large, making it quite noticeable, which is perhaps the point.
The Liberace Ring is sure to turn heads – whether they’re shaking in disapproval or giggling in amusement.
The Sultan
This ring is fit for a king…literally.
It’s often big and flashy, with lots of gold and diamonds. If you want your friends to be green with (fake) envy, this is the ring for you.
A common characteristic of this type of ghetto wedding ring is that it looks so expensive it must be fake.
The Halloween
The Halloween Ring is a piece of jewelry that is so hideous, it’s often mistaken for a prop from a Halloween costume.
It’s usually made from black plastic or rubber, and it’s decorated with gaudy details that make it look like it belongs on a costume rather than on a finger.
Despite its tacky appearance, the Halloween Ring is actually quite popular in some circles.
Despite its asylum-chic aesthetic, the Halloween Ring is not a piece of jewelry that you would want to wear on a date or to a fancy event.
Much less a wedding.
The Granny
A frumpy, old-fashioned ring that looks like it was pulled out of grandma’s jewelry box. Often made of yellow gold with a simple design such as a rusting band or solitaire setting.
The Granny Ring is the epitome of bad taste.
And yet, for some reason, some people seem to love them. Perhaps it’s because they’re a reminder of simpler times, when people didn’t obsess over trends and instead just wore whatever was comfortable.
Or maybe it’s because they’re so ugly that they’re actually endearing.
The Black Hole
This ring is so dark and mysterious that it’s practically hypnotic.
It’s often made of obsidian or onyx, and it has a very minimalist design. If you want a ghetto ring that reflects your deep and brooding soul, this is the ring for you.
Just be aware that this ghetto ring is dark and foreboding.
The Rainbow Brite
You could also call this ghetto ring “The Skittles Ring” because it has all of the colors of the rainbow.
In a single ring, you get a circus of contrasting colors that you don’t really know exactly what you’re looking at. You might also see a cluster of different gemstones.
It’s as if the designer couldn’t decide what color scheme to go with so they went with every color.
Here is a video with 10 ghetto wedding rings:
Why Guys Buy Ghetto Wedding Rings?
There are many reasons why guys buy ghetto wedding rings:
- They’re cheap (this is a major reason guys without enough money buy them)
- They’re unique (The woman wearing it might feel special wearing the rare ring)
- They’re a great conversation starter (they shout “Talk about me” in every room)
- They can be passed down as family heirlooms (They already look very old)
- They’re a way to show off one’s personality (or, in some rare cases, the lack thereof)
- They give the impression that the guy is a good provider (even if he’s really broke)
- They show that the guy is proud of his bride and willing to go the extra mile (or five)
Why Women Wear Ghetto Wedding Rings?
While the reasons for why women wear ghetto wedding rings are many and varied, there are a few common themes that seem to crop up again and again.
First, there’s the issue of cost. Ghetto wedding bands are often much cheaper than more traditional rings.
This makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious brides.
Additionally, ghetto rings tend to be more unique and personal than mass-produced options, which can be a major selling point for couples who want their wedding to reflect their individual style.
Finally, it’s worth noting that some women simply find ghetto wedding rings to be more aesthetically pleasing than more traditional options.
Whatever the reason, there’s no denying that ghetto wedding rings have become a more popular choice among modern brides.
How To Avoid Getting a Ghetto Wedding Ring
So, you’re engaged. Congratulations! The next step is to pick out the perfect wedding ring.
But what if you don’t want a tacky, gaudy ring that looks like it came from a gumball machine? How can you avoid getting a “ghetto” wedding ring?
Here are some tips:
- Go ring shopping with your partner. This way, you can get an idea of their style and what they like.
- Ask unbiased third parties for their feedback. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or even a stranger online, getting a second opinion can be helpful.
- Go simpler and smaller. You don’t need a huge diamond to have a beautiful ring. Sometimes less is more.
- Don’t be afraid to spend a little extra money. A quality ring will last a lifetime, so it’s worth it to invest in something that’s well-made.
By following these tips, you’re sure to find the perfect wedding ring for you and your partner.
Ghetto Wedding Rings FAQ
In this section, I’ll answer some of the most common questions I get about ghetto wedding rings.
What Makes a Ring Look Tacky or Ghetto?
As we’ve mentioned, what makes a wedding ring look ghetto or tacky usually comes down to size, color, material, cost, and overall appearance.
It’s no one thing.
Instead, it’s usually combination of two or three elements (like size and ornateness).
Are Diamond Cluster Rings Tacky?
In my opinion, yes, diamond cluster rings are tacky.
I think they look busy and overdone, like the person is trying too hard to show off their wealth. I prefer a more understated look when it comes to jewelry, and a cluster ring just doesn’t fit that aesthetic.
Additionally, I find that they can often look cheap, especially if the stones are small or of poor quality.
In my opinion, it’s better to save your money and invest in a few well-crafted pieces that you’ll be able to enjoy for years to come.
What Are Ghetto Engagement Rings?
Ghetto engagement rings are the precursors of ghetto wedding bands.
They essentially fit the same bill but, in this case, we’re talking about rings used for the engagement period instead of at (and after) the actual wedding ceremony.
Make no mistake about it: ghetto engagement rings are just as hideous as their wedding cousins.
Are Thumb Rings Tacky?
Since we’re on the subject of tacky rings, what about thumb rings?
I don’t think all thumb rings are tacky. Some of them? Sure, but that goes for just about any ring. I like thumb rings unless they are overdone.
I wouldn’t go for thumb rings for engagement or weddings.
However, each couple gets to decide where and how they want to show off their rings.
Final Thoughts: Ghetto Wedding Ring
There’s nothing inherently wrong with so-called “ghetto” wedding rings.
If you like them, wear them.
And, if you like articles about wedding, we have lots of them on this website. Check out a few more before you go.
Read these next: